Definition and Characteristics of Family

Firstly let`s begin by taking a look at the definition of Family.

The word family is one of the most loosely defined terms in the English language; because it means something different to everyone. While one person may define family as the relatives who share their home, another may consider family to include extended relatives residing near and far. Still, someone else views their beloved circle of friends or their pets as family. Families are vastly different, but they all function under one single premise: shared love and commitment.

The dictionary defines family in several ways. One definition is “a fundamental social group in society typically consisting of one or two parents and their children.” While this definition is a good starting point, several modern family structures are excluded by this definition, such as childless couples, friends as family, etc. Today there are many definitions of the concept of family, and all are equally wonderful and celebrated.

Some of the other common definitions are:

parents and their children, considered as a group, whether dwelling together or not

the children of one person or one couple collectively

the spouse and children of one person

any group of persons closely related by blood, as parents, children, uncles, aunts, and cousins

all those persons considered as descendants of a common progenitor

a group of persons who form a household under one head, including parents, children, and servants

a group of people who are generally not blood relations but who share common attitudes, interests, or goals and, frequently, live together

Now let us take a look at some of the Characteristics or Features of Family

It is a universal group: It is found in one form or other, in all types of societies whether primitive or modern.

Marriage as the basis: A family is based on marriage, which results in a mating relationship between two adults of the opposite sex.

Trace of ancestry: It is the group through which descent or ancestry can be traced.

The primary agent of socialization: It is the most basic group as it is the primary agent of socialization of an individual.

Various forms: It generally has various forms and sizes such as nuclear, even large, joint, and extended families.

The nucleus of all institutions: It is the most important group in society; it is the nucleus of all institutions, organizations, and groups.

Emotional attachment: It is based on emotions and sentiments. Mating, procreation, love, and affection are the basis of family ties.

Unit of cooperation: It is a unit of emotional and economic cooperation.

Division of labour: Each member of the house has duties and responsibilities.

Social roles: Each family is made up of different social roles, like those of husband, wife, mother, father, children, brothers, or sisters.