essay on nuclear family advantages and disadvantages

Pros and Cons of the Nuclear Family

Michele is a writer who has been published both locally and internationally.

Learn about our Editorial Policy .

Nuclear families, which include a mother, father, and children living in the household, are what many consider 'typical' family arrangements. However, as the social landscape changes, so do ideas and perceptions of different family types and structures. Every family structure has advantages and disadvantages to it.

Advantages of the Nuclear Family

According to the U.S. Census Bureau , in 2020, 40 percent of all families lived with their own children under the age of 18, compared to 44% in 2010 and 48% in 2000. In general, people view this family structure as an ideal or dominant arrangement to raise a family. Two married parents and their children living together provide a favorable image for many reasons.

• 16 Family Fun Ideas to Make the Most of Your Summer
• 6 Types of Family Structures Common in 2023
• Are Capricorns Stubborn? Everything You Need to Know About This Trait

Strength and Stability

Children born into a marriage tend to have more stability than children born into cohabitation. Pew Research Center found that 20 percent of kids born to married parents experience divorce , while nearly 50 percent of kids in cohabiting families s ee a shift in their family structure. Both of these groups of children have a better chance to one day live with a married couple than kids born to single moms . Committed spouses or partners in a healthy relationship model a loving, caring, and supportive relationship for their children. This translates into future success when children learn how to seek positive relationships and interact well with others. Children see partners work together to solve problems, delegate household responsibilities, and support one another through positive and negative issues.

Financial Stability Equals More Opportunity

Many nuclear families have enough economic stability to provide children with luxuries, opportunities, and a safe environment. Pew Research Center notes 57 percent of households with married parents were well above the poverty line while only 21 percent of single-parent households were. Children in nuclear families may be more readily able to attend dance, gymnastics, music, or other types of classes, especially when both adults in the nuclear family work to generate joint income. Children with these opportunities afforded to them are more likely to experience academic and social success in their lifetime.

Consistency Means Behavior Successes

The successful nuclear family provides children with consistency in caretaking. Behavioral expectations and consequences remain steady in a home with two parents who strive to create structure and routine in kids' everyday lives. Children who have both stability and consistency in their lives are more likely to exhibit positive behavior, earn good grades in school , and become more involved in community and extracurricular activities because they have a sense of security and belonging. The nuclear family may eat dinner together regularly, go to church or temple, and take family vacations, all of which help to strengthen relationships and build a solid foundation for future life goals.

Encourages Education

Children born to parents with college degrees are more likely to attend and complete college themselves. An analysis by the Council on Contemporary Families indicates educated parents are less likely to divorce and have more resources to provide for children. Pew Research Center adds that parents with degrees are more likely to be in the labor force, which increases family income levels in educated, nuclear families. The placement of value on education combined with a higher income level improves the academic future of children.

Health Benefits

Overall, research suggests children in families with married and biological parents have better social, emotional, and physical health than other children. Children who are raised in nuclear families tend to witness less abuse compared to children in single-parent households. Nuclear families are also more likely to use emergency rooms and may have the means to provide good healthcare for children.

Communication Skills

Communication between family members in a nuclear household features fewer obstacles and distractions as there are fewer competing individuals in the home. With technological advances, these families also have the ability to increase communication from outside the home. According to an analysis by Pew Internet & American Life Project , nuclear families are the most likely of all family types to use the internet and cell phones. This allows parents to better monitor child internet use and participate in online activities with children. Kids with cell phones have the means to keep in contact with parents about schedule changes and emergencies.

Connection to Family During the Aging Process

Those who grow up in a stable nuclear family have a better chance of keeping family ties intact and therefore having familial connections during the aging process. As children from nuclear families age, they will have more familial support than children who have one parent and no siblings. This can leave those from nuclear families at an advantage regarding economic and emotional support as parents and/or siblings experience illness and eventually pass away.

Disadvantages of the Nuclear Family

Just as the nuclear family unit provides people with great benefits, this familiar structure has several cons or disadvantages, proving no family is truly perfect.

Extended Family Exclusion

The nuclear family unit provides a strong bonding experience for immediate family members. The smaller family size allows individualized attention towards partners and children, which helps create lifelong bonds. However, one analysis published at Preserve Articles points out that the nuclear family unit can isolate nuclear family members from other relatives and relationships outside the home. This breakdown of the extended family unit won't be beneficial when a nuclear family befalls hard times and must call on others to help them through. Grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins have a place within a family structure, but the nuclear family doesn't always foster these relationships as other familial structures do.

The Realities of Burnout

Family members, particularly mothers, tend to burn out from attempts to meet every person's needs. The focus on constantly meeting the children's needs can be overwhelming and leave little room for parents to care for themselves. Without help from extended family, parents sometimes struggle to meet the daily demands of their immediate family. They may need to take off work to care for sick children, lack the manpower to get kids to after-school activities and find themselves falling short when it comes to keeping up with the chores typically found in a busy household. The struggle to balance the demands of work, family, and friendships without outside assistance leads to stress, depression, anxiety, or other problems. When it comes to making the pieces move in busy families, extended family structures can greatly benefit nuclear family units.

Conflict Resolution Skills

While less conflict and decreased family stress are advantages of the nuclear family, it also puts the family at a disadvantage down the road. Conflict is a part of life, and conflict resolution skills are beneficial in school, the community, and the workplace. Nuclear families can develop like-minded thinking, leading to fewer arguments within the family unit. However, it can increase disagreements with extended family members. Extended family with differing opinions and ideas can help family members see alternate viewpoints and learn to deal with outside opinions and conflicts.

Small Support System

Emergencies, such as an accident or even a time of illness can leave small nuclear families in crisis. The Preserve Articles analysis points out how extended family structures offer built-in help for these scenarios. In a nuclear family where both parents work and have young children, the ability to meet all expectations and needs solely within the family unit is not always feasible. Multigenerational households offer assistance as needed. Should a child become ill during school and the parents are stuck in meetings, grandma or grandpa can often be there in a flash.

Compounding Stereotypes

The emphasis on the nuclear family as best practice exacerbates stereotypes of single mothers, family structures based on religion, and cultural family structures found throughout the world. The International Encyclopedia of Marriage and Family suggests nuclear families are not as historically prevalent as initially believed. The symbolism this idea represents is an ideal for all to seek, while those in other scenarios earn criticism. This normalized ideal influences public policy and government programs, which can exclude different family types.

Self-Centered Worldview

According to the Concordia University - St. Paul , the traditional nuclear family is child-centered. This means the focus is on the immediate family, children in particular, for all facets of life. The family unit strives to meet its own needs and places secondary emphasis on others. This viewpoint can lead children to selfish tendencies and thinking. It can also create a narrow worldview where the greater good of society gets little consideration.

Traditional Nuclear Family Historically Seen as Non-Progressive

Research notes that any stable two-parent household , regardless of the parents' genders, can create a healthy, loving environment for their child or children to thrive. The nuclear family definition was historically non-inclusive, excluding same-sex households even though they can provide just as stable of an environment. The current, modern definition of a nuclear family now reads to include a family group consisting of the parents and their children, but views on what makes up a nuclear family might be rooted in the traditional, less inclusive model of previous decades. Regardless of parents' gender, orientation, or identification, children who grow up in stable homes with two loving and capable parents have a higher chance of upward economic mobility versus children who grew up in unstable home environments lacking two parents.

Preferred Family Structure

The nuclear family continues to be the family structure preferred by many Americans. Although the incidence of single-parent , divorced , and multigenerational households are all quite common. The choice to raise a family by the nuclear model does not guarantee success or happiness but can provide a basis for obtaining those ideals. Awareness regarding the possible advantages and disadvantages allows a big-picture view of this family structure. No family is perfect, but when you work together with family members, you ensure the best possible outcomes for everyone involved.

SocialTalky.com

10 Nuclear Family Advantages and Disadvantages (2024)

Change is an inevitable part of everyone’s life. No one can escape it. In India, the joint family structure is quickly disintegrating. It is being replaced by the nuclear family model. 

A nuclear family includes kids, a wife, and a spouse – not sure if this disintegrates even further in future. A friend of mine was telling me that after 50 years, there will be no nuclear families too. There would be only you and me.

In our present generation of nuclear families, the youngsters leave their parent’s home when they get married or start earning. In a nuclear family, the association between wedded youngsters and guardians is less.

Article Contents

Nuclear Families in Western and Eastern Countries

In western countries like USA and Canada, children leave their parents home once they reach 18 years of age. In fact, most parents ask their children to leave the homes and live independently. This definitely is not happening in countries like India, China etc. yet.

Nuclear family setups are becoming more famous due to factors like increasing urbanization, changes in attitudes, the impact of westernization, the need for more privacy, and other factors. Financial independence is the core reason for the independent living behavior.

Adding to this, women wants to live independently from their husbands (even more nuclear) and are ready to even live alone without any partner as they are becoming capable to earn their livelihood and all other basic needs.

The nuclear family system is becoming popular due to these factors. However, this system is not perfect. In this article, we are going to talk about the merits and demerits of the nuclear family system.

Related : Advantages and Disadvantages of Joint Families

Advantages of Nuclear Family System

Some of the main benefits of living in a nuclear family system are:

More privacy and freedom

A nuclear family will give more freedom and privacy to couples. This will ensure that couples can spend time together and understand each other needs. In the modern family system, couples can easily share their expectations of each other. Living in a nuclear family also means that couples will have more freedom in making decisions together.

Financial stability 

Nuclear families generally have the financial stability to provide kids with luxuries, a safe environment, and opportunities. According to a report from the Pew Research Center, more than 57% of households with married parents are above the poverty line. Kids living in nuclear families are more likely to attend dance, music, and other types of classes. Children with these opportunities are more likely to experience social and academic success. 

Shared responsibilities 

Couples can decide on the shared responsibilities in the household. The best way to bond is by doing activities and chores together. Everyone in the family should be involved in family matters. This will ensure that the family will feel responsible and understand how interdependent they are. 

Decision-making 

If you are living in a nuclear family system, then you can easily reach a decision. The two major players involved in any decision are the man and his wife. They can also take the opinions of their children. However, major decisions will be taken by two people only. Since there are only two people involved in the decision-making process it is easy to decide. Other members of the family like the parents of the couple are not involved in this process. 

Sharing inheritance is easy 

In a nuclear family, it is easy to share the properties after the death of one spouse. There is no extended family member who will battle for the possession of the deceased properties. Everything will go to the children of the surviving spouse. This eliminates the confrontation which occurs among family members when death occurs.

Disadvantages of Nuclear Family System

Some of the main demerits of living in a nuclear family system are:

Sensation of disconnection 

Couples generally have chaotic plans for getting their work done. Sometimes couples don’t get time to spend with their kids. Due to this, the kids start spending their energy playing online games and watching TV. The presence of distant family members like an aunt or a grandparent is missed.

Problems with work-life balance 

This is the biggest problem that is faced by couples that are aiming for growth in their professional and personal spheres. Working couples face situations like working to meet a deadline or a child falling sick. If there is an unequal partnership, then mothers will be the ones who will struggle to cope with it. Most nuclear families feel a lack of support during these situations.

Difficulty in solving conflicts 

The nuclear family is generally small but it also has its own conflicts. In the absence of guidance and intervention from elders, the conflict can stay unresolved. This can affect your family relationships. It can affect the stability of your family.

Insecurity of children 

In Some nuclear families both the wife and husband work. Due to this, the children are neglected. They are cared for by the maid or staff as the parents are busy with their professional work. Due to this, the children are insecure and lonely. If something happens to parents, then there is no one to support the children. Even in emergency situations like pregnancy, accident, or illness, the family members are neglected. 

Parents become lonely 

One of the main disadvantages of living in a nuclear family is that the parents will become lonely as they grow older. This happens when children become older and get married. Sometimes they can neglect the needs of their parents. If you are living in an extended family, then there will be a support system. This support system will be missing in a nuclear family.

Also Read: 7 Tips To Foster Good Relationships Within Your Team

There are both merits and demerits of living in a nuclear family. However, the final decision will ultimately depend on you and your partner. The nuclear family is still considered the best method to raise kids. There is no guarantee but it will at least make you independent and strong.

Similar Posts

Exploring the Roots of Emotional Distance: Why We Push Others Away

Pushing people away can be an inevitable part of human nature when faced with overwhelming emotions or difficult experiences. This article delves into the reasons why some individuals instinctively distance themselves from others and offers insights on how to prevent or reverse this behavior. Emotional Vulnerability and Fear of Rejection One significant reason for emotional…

How to Know If You Are Going Through Domestic Violence in Your Relationship

In most relationships, the goal is to make your partner happy and to feel happy and loved. We form relationships to make deep connections with other humans and start families. No matter who we are, most people want to settle down someday.  If you’re in a relationship and feel that it’s not going exactly as you…

7 Tips To Foster Good Relationships Within Your Team

Developing positive relationships at work is essential to a career’s success. Quality relationships with fellow professionals and team members will make your workday more enjoyable.  The following benefits can be gained from workplace relationships:  Others may have no problem building positive relationships at work. However, that isn’t the case for some. If you’re not sure…

The Different Stages of Couples Therapy and What to Expect

When couples first get into therapy, there are a lot of thoughts and concerns that will come up. This is understandable because relationships take time to heal and build trust. According to John Maret Counseling, it’s also common for both partners to experience couples therapy differently, depending on their background and presenting issues. 1. Stabilization…

Should I Try Family or Individual Therapy?

You may be considering therapy if you’re going through family struggles. These could include drug or alcohol abuse in a family member, internal family conflicts, trying to bring up an important topic with parents, and more.  If you’re considering therapy to deal with family conflict, you may be wondering whether family or individual therapy is a…

What Are the Stages of Grief and How Can I Get Through Them?

You may have heard of the stages of grief before. There are seven official stages, although some people only list five. The grieving process can often last a very long time in cases of loss where there was a wrongful or accidental death or death of someone extremely close to you in an unexpected way.  Read…

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Nurturing Families

The Advantages And Disadvantages Of Living In A Nuclear Family

Living in a nuclear family is the norm in today's fast-paced, materialistic world. So, what makes it a popular choice? Let's read on to understand.

With change being an inevitable part of life, nothing escapes transformation. And so it is, with the changing structure of the family. In India, the joint family system is disintegrating and being replaced by the nuclear family. Read on to know more about the nuclear family system and see whether it suits your needs.

In his book, ' A Dictionary of Sociology ', sociologist G Duncan Mitchell defines a nuclear family as, "A small group composed of husband and wife and immature children which constitutes a unit apart from the rest of the community."

This definition suggests that a nuclear family consists of parents and their child(ren) living together under one roof,  without other relatives living with them under the same roof.

The rise of the nuclear family setup can be attributed to various factors such as increasing urbanization, scarcity of living space in big cities, changes in attitudes, a desire for more privacy, the impact of westernization, and so on. Although the nuclear family system continues to flourish, like any other system, it isn't perfect and has its fair share of merits and demerits.

Characteristics of a nuclear family

A nuclear family:

• Is free from the absolute control of the eldest family member
• Requires that the parents take complete responsibility for running the home and taking care of the family
• Has a more modern outlook
• Expects that after the children get married, they leave their parent's home and move into a separate dwelling to establish another nuclear family.

In the past couple of decades, more and more families in urban India have turned into nuclear families. Some of the reasons for this trend are:

• The desire for an improved lifestyle : Young Indians aspire to earn more, seek financial stability, and lead better life. All this is more easily achieved in a nuclear family setup where parents make independent lifestyle choices for their family.
• The desire for freedom : Couples in a nuclear family enjoy the freedom of living on their own, by their own rules,  and without interference from family other members.
• The desire to maintain harmony : Sharing the living space with a large number of family members can often lead to conflicts, misunderstandings, and unpleasant situations. Several couples would rather live separately to avoid multiple conflicts and undercurrents in family relationships.

Advantages of living in a nuclear family

Today, many in the world believe that there are several benefits of a nuclear family setup:

• More freedom and privacy : Being able to catch up with each other during dinner is of great significance for married working couples. Privacy enables couples to spend time together, understand their partner's needs, and extend support. In the modern nuclear family system, couples are freer to express their expectations of each other. What's more, living in a nuclear family means that couples enjoy greater freedom in making decisions together and with their children.
• Shared responsibilities and interdependence :   Parents are free to decide on shared responsibilities in the household.  Doing chores and activities together is a great way to bond, extend support and be equally involved in family matters. It makes everyone in the family feel responsible and understand how interdependent they are on each other.
• Family bonding : Shouldering family responsibilities together makes husband and wife appreciative of each other.  For the children, nothing works better than watching their parents have open conversations, care for, understand, and love each other.
• Confident women : The woman in a nuclear family often has a career, making her financially independent and more assertive in matters related to the family. She becomes a key decision-maker when it comes to meeting the needs of her family and home - decisions about the school the children will go to, planning the family budget, arranging get-togethers, and playdates, and deciding on the decor of her home. This makes her feel confident in her abilities.
• Home is family : The feeling of coming home to one's own family is comforting. For example, if the workday has been a taxing one, there is nothing more relaxing than the joy of sitting and having a cup of tea with one's spouse, chatting with the children, and watching TV together. These regular family routines are great ways to unwind.
• Partners in parenting : It is easier for a couple to co-parent and come up with their own unique ways of bringing up their children. They seek opinions when they really need them and they value each other's contribution.

Check out the video below that looks at the advantages and disadvantages of living in a nuclear family.

Disadvantages of living in a nuclear family

While there are certain advantages of a nuclear family, the system also has some disadvantages:

• Problems with work-life balance : This is the biggest issue faced by couples aiming for growth in the personal and professional spheres. Many a time, working couples face difficult situations such as the child falling sick, working to meet a deadline, or school/daycare declaring a holiday when it is a working day for the parents. In an unequal partnership, it is usually the mother who struggles to cope with it. During such times, the lack of support from extended family members may not be forthcoming.
• Feelings of loneliness and isolation : When parents have hectic work schedules, they find little or no time to spend with their children. As a result, some children may feel lonely. Some of them resort to spending too much time watching TV or using gadgets to fill the void. The presence of an extended family member such as a grandparent or an aunt is sorely missed.
• Difficulty in resolving conflicts : Although a nuclear family is a closely-knit group it is not without conflicts. In the absence of intervention and guidance from elders and fellow parents, conflicts may remain unresolved. This could be a risk to family relationships and the stability of the home.

Preferred family structure

Of course, every family structure is unique in itself. There can be a nuclear family that is very accommodating of every member's point of view, and there can be a joint family where couples are also able to find privacy and comfort in each other. After all, it depends on the individuals who make up the family, be it a joint family or a nuclear family.

Comment Flag

Abusive content

Inappropriate content

Cancel Update

Related Topics See All

More for you.

Explore more articles and videos on parenting

Infant to Pre-teen • 8 Mins Read • 6.5K Views

Raising Your Child Around Dogs: Pros And Cons

Thinking of getting a pet for your child? Your child will benefit in many ways, but there can be drawbacks too. Here we list out some pros and cons to help you take the right decision.

Pre-teen to 18+ • 6 Mins Read • 5K Views

5 delicious dessert recipes to make for your father this Father's Day

Planning to impress your dad on his special day? Indulge his sweet tooth with these delectable treats and you are sure to win some brownie points!

Toddler to Teen • 5 Mins Read • 5.9K Views

Fun and engaging bonding activities that siblings can do together

Very few bonds are as special as the one between siblings. So, as a parent, help your children forge that inseparable bond by doing these activities together

• Communities

Join a community to interact with like-minded parents and share your thoughts on parenting

2.5K members • 53 Discussions

Curiosity, tantrums and what not!

1.9K members • 36 Discussions

The Active and Enthusiastic Middle Years

11-18 Years

1.8K members • 61 Discussions

From Self-consciousness to Self-confidence

Just for Parents

4K members • 152 Discussions

A 'ME' space to just BE!

Discussions Topics

Share your thoughts, parenting tips, activity ideas and more

Hobbies and Entertainment

New member introduction.

Family Fun Challenges and Activities

• Gadget Free Hour
• Discussions

Share your thoughts, tips, activity ideas and more on parenting

Mothers Day Contest - One Habit I Got From Mom | May 2024

Joy of celebration, could someone recommend the top preschool in mumbai's borivali west area, finger-licking recipes from your city share now, can anyone share the best preschool in bangalore.

A compilation of the most-read, liked and commented stories on parenting

If you are determined, nothing is impossible to achieve: Chayaa Nanjappa, entrepreneur

7 Mins Read • 10.9K Views

10 Personalised Father's Day Gifts From a Daughter. Time to celebrate your father

5 Mins Read • 9.9K Views

6 Traditional Pongal festival recipes for kids with twists that they will enjoy eating

7 Mins Read • 7.6K Views

Five tips for grandparents of a three-year-old to strengthen their bond with the little ones

2 Mins Read • 6.9K Views

Celebrating A Digital Diwali: Here's How You Can Add Technology To Tradition During The Festival

7 Mins Read • 7K Views

Ring In The Christmas Spirit With These Indoor Games and Activities For The Whole Family

7 Mins Read • 5.3K Views

Top Searches

• Notifications
• Saved Stories
• Parents of India
• Ask The Expert
• Community New
• Community Guideline
• Community Help
• The Dot Learning Circle
• Press Releases
• Terms of use
• Sign In Sign UP

We use cookies to allow us to better understand how the site is used. By continuing to use this site, you consent to this policy. Click to learn more

• Skip to main content
• Skip to secondary menu
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

ImportantIndia.com

Indian History, Festivals, Essays, Paragraphs, Speeches.

Nuclear Family: Essay on Advantages and Disadvantages of Nuclear Family

Category: Essays and Paragraphs On October 23, 2018 By Aparna

A nuclear family is a family containing 2-5 members. It is a small group which consists of a wife and husband and their immature children which forms a part of the community. After marriage, children leave their parents and their home and establish a new household. Nuclear families are quite common in today’s times. It is an autonomous family which is free from any control by the elders. Youth love their independence in recent times, and so the proportion of nuclear families is gradually increasing especially in cities.

• With nuclear families, there is a lot of scope for personality development . Children become more close to parents and can discuss their thoughts frankly and freely.
• In nuclear families, women get more time to look after their children and also to manage her house according to her ideas. Elders do not interfere in household matters, and the husband can also give more attention to his wife.
• Nuclear families tend to do more family planning , and all members bear expenses and responsibilities together.
• There are fewer people so less misunderstanding and so they have a harmonious atmosphere and peaceful life.
• Parents are responsible for their children and both husband and wife shares responsibilities mutually.
• Savings and financial planning can be done effectively.
• All family members can enjoy an independent lifestyle .

Disadvantages

• As the family gets divided, the land also gets subdivided, and the yield is lesser. Also, many times due to lack of labor people have to employ outsiders. This causes economic loss to the members of the nuclear family to a great extent.
• As both wife and husband have to take up economic responsibilities, children are often neglected or left with servants. Children develop a feeling of loneliness and emotional insecurity as well as anxiety and depression. If the earning member dies or becomes incapable of earning, then there is no other person to support the family. Also, there is no support in time of emergencies or accident or sickness.
• In this independent unit, there is a lot of freedom, and so children tend to develop bad qualities by imitating their inmates. This leads to an indisciplined lifestyle . Also, they become unsocial and cannot get mixed with other family members.
• Loneliness is a major drawback of this type of families, and there is no help or support in case of emergencies. Also, there is no one to talk to in the free time.
• In nuclear families old, divorced and widows are neglected as no one has the time to take care of them. This makes them feel insecure, and children also become emotionally, socially and educationally maladjusted. This leads to frequent conflicts .

Although nuclear families have their set of advantages and independence , still it lacks the love and warmth of the traditional joint families. Children do not get the upbringing and culture from their elders, and they may end up being too undisciplined and spoilt. It is a personal choice to decide the type of family they want.

• History of Mughal Empire
• Modern History of India
• Important India
• Indian Geography
• Report an Article
• Terms of Use, Privacy Policy, Cookie Policy, and Copyrights.

Want to create or adapt books like this? Learn more about how Pressbooks supports open publishing practices.

10.1 Overview of the Family

Learning objectives.

• Describe why many children throughout history have not lived in a nuclear family.
• Understand the status of the nuclear family in the United States since the colonial period.
• Describe the major marriage and family arrangements in the United States today.

A family is a group of two or more people who are related by blood, marriage, adoption, or a mutual commitment and who care for one another. Defined in this way, the family is universal or nearly universal: Some form of the family has existed in every society, or nearly every society, that we know about (Starbuck, 2010). Yet it is also true that many types of families have existed, and the cross-cultural and historical record indicates that these different forms of the family can all “work”: They provide practical and emotional support for their members and they socialize their children.

It is important to keep this last statement in mind, because Americans until the last few decades thought of only one type of family, and that is the nuclear family : A married heterosexual couple and their young children living by themselves under one roof. The nuclear family has existed in most societies with which scholars are familiar. An extended family , which consists of parents, their children, and other relatives, has a nuclear family at its core and was quite common in prehistoric societies. Many one-parent families begin as (two-parent) nuclear families that dissolve upon divorce or separation or, more rarely, the death of one of the parents. In recent decades, one-parent families have become more common in the United States because of divorce and births out of wedlock, but they were actually very common throughout most of human history because many spouses died early in life and because many babies were born out of wedlock.

Although the nuclear family is a common family arrangement today, historically many children lived with only one parent because spouses died early and many babies were born out of wedlock.

Wikimedia Commons – CC BY 2.0.

Although many prehistoric societies featured nuclear families, a few societies studied by anthropologists have not had them. In these societies, a father does not live with a woman after she has his child and sees them either irregularly or not at all. Despite the absence of a father and the lack of a nuclear family, this type of family arrangement seems to have worked well in these societies. In particular, children are cared for and grow up to be productive members of their societies (Smith, 1996).

These examples do not invalidate the fact that nuclear families are almost universal. But they do indicate that the functions of the nuclear family can be achieved through other family arrangements. If that is true, perhaps the oft-cited concern over the “breakdown” of the 1950s-style nuclear family in modern America is at least somewhat undeserved. As indicated by the examples just given, children can and do thrive without two parents. To say this is meant neither to extol divorce, births out of wedlock, and fatherless families nor to minimize the problems they may involve. Rather, it is meant simply to indicate that the nuclear family is not the only viable form of family organization (Seccombe, 2012).

In fact, although nuclear families remain the norm in most societies, in practice they are something of a historical rarity: Until about a century ago, many spouses died by their mid-forties, and many babies were born out of wedlock. In medieval Europe, for example, people died early from disease, malnutrition, and other problems. One consequence of early mortality was that many children could expect to outlive at least one of their parents and thus essentially were raised in one-parent families or in stepfamilies (Gottlieb, 1993).

During the American colonial period, different family types abounded, and the nuclear family was by no means the only type (Coontz, 1995). Nomadic Native American groups had relatively small nuclear families, while nonnomadic groups had larger extended families. Because nuclear families among African Americans slaves were difficult to achieve, slaves adapted by developing extended families, adopting orphans, and taking in other people not related by blood or marriage. Many European parents of colonial children died because average life expectancy was only 45 years. The one-third to one-half of children who outlived at least one of their parents lived in stepfamilies or with just their surviving parent. Mothers were so busy working the land and doing other tasks that they devoted relatively little time to child care, which instead was entrusted to older children or servants.

Moving much forward in US history, an important change in American families occurred during the 1940s after World War II ended. As men came home after serving in the military in Europe and Japan, books, magazines, and newspapers exhorted women to have babies, and babies they did have: People got married at younger ages and the birth rate soared, resulting in the now famous baby boom generation . Meanwhile, divorce rates dropped. The national economy thrived as auto and other factory jobs multiplied, and many families for the first time could dream of owning their own homes. Suburbs sprang up, and many families moved to them. Many families during the 1950s did indeed fit the Leave It to Beaver model of the breadwinner-homemaker suburban nuclear family. Following the Depression of the 1930s and the war of the 1940s, the 1950s seemed an almost idyllic decade.

Even so, less than 60 percent of American children during the 1950s lived in breadwinner-homemaker nuclear families. Moreover, many lived in poverty, as the poverty rate then was almost twice as high as it is today. Teenage pregnancy rates were about twice as high as today. Although not publicized back then, alcoholism and violence in families were common. Historians have found that many women in this era were unhappy with their homemaker roles, Mrs. Cleaver (Beaver’s mother) to the contrary, suffering from what Betty Friedan (1963) famously called the “feminine mystique.”

During the 1960s and 1970s, women began to enter the labor force. They did so to increase their families’ incomes and to achieve greater self-fulfillment. More than 60 percent of married women with children under 6 years of age are now in the labor force, compared to less than 19 percent in 1960. At about the same time, divorce rates increased for several reasons that we examine later in this chapter. Changes in the American family had begun, and along with them various controversies and problems.

Marriage and the Family in the United States Today

In the United States today, marriage remains an important institution. Only about 27 percent of all adults (18 or older) have never been married, 56 percent are currently married, 10 percent are divorced, and 6 percent are widowed (see Figure 10.1 “Marital Status of the US Population 18 Years of Age or Older, 2010” ). Thus 72 percent of American adults have been married, whether or not they are currently married. Because more than half of the never-married people are under 30, it is fair to say that many of them will be getting married sometime in the future. When we look just at people aged 45–54, about 87 percent are currently married or had been married at some point in their lives. In a 2010 poll, only 5 percent of Americans under age 30 said they did not want to get married (Luscombe, 2010). These figures all indicate that marriage continues to be an important ideal in American life, even if not all marriages succeed. As one sociologist has said, “Getting married is a way to show family and friends that you have a successful personal life. It’s like the ultimate merit badge” (Luscombe, 2010).

Although marriage remains an important institution, two recent trends do suggest that its importance is declining for some segments of the population (Cohn, Passel, Wang, & Livingston, 2011). First, although 71 percent of adults have been married, this figure represents a drop from 85 percent in 1960. Second, education greatly affects whether we marry and stay married, and marriage is less common among people without a college degree.

Figure 10.1 Marital Status of the US Population 18 Years of Age or Older, 2010

Source: Data from US Census Bureau. (2012). Statistical abstract of the United States: 2012 . Washington, DC: US Government Printing Office. Retrieved from http://www.census.gov/compendia/statab .

Recent figures provide striking evidence of this relationship. Almost two-thirds (64 percent) of college graduates are currently married, compared to less than half (47 percent) of high school graduates and high school dropouts combined. People with no more than a high school degree are less likely than college graduates to marry at all, and they are more likely to get divorced, as we shall discuss again later, if they do marry.

This difference in marriage rates worsens the financial situation that people with lower education already face. As one observer noted, “As marriage increasingly becomes a phenomenon of the better-off and better-educated, the incomes of two-earner married couples diverge more from those of struggling single adults” (Marcus, 2011). One of the many consequences of this education gap in marriage is that the children of one-parent households are less likely than those of two-parent households to graduate high school and to attend college. In this manner, a parent’s low education helps to perpetuate low education among the parent’s children.

The United States Compared to Other Democracies

In several ways, the United States differs from other Western democracies in its view of marriage and in its behavior involving marriage and other intimate relationships (Cherlin, 2010; Hull, Meier, & Ortyl, 2012). First, Americans place more emphasis than their Western counterparts on the ideal of romantic love as a basis for marriage and other intimate relationships and on the cultural importance of marriage. Second, the United States has higher rates of marriage than other Western nations. Third, the United States also has higher rates of divorce than other Western nations; for example, 42 percent of American marriages end in divorce after fifteen years, compared to only 8 percent in Italy and Spain. Fourth, Americans are much more likely than other Western citizens to remarry once they are divorced, to cohabit in short-term relationships, and, in general, to move from one intimate relationship to another, a practice called serial monogamy . This practice leads to instability that can have negative impacts on any children that may be involved and also on the adults involved.

Americans place more emphasis than Europeans on the ideal of romantic love as the basis for marriage. This emphasis helps account for why the United States has a higher divorce rate than many European nations.

Ken Witherow – Digimem Studio Photo Shoot – CC BY 2.0.

The US emphasis on romantic love helps account for its high rates of marriage, divorce, and serial monogamy. It leads people to want to be in an intimate relationship, marital or cohabiting. Then when couples get married because they are in love, many quickly find that passionate romantic love can quickly fade; because their expectations of romantic love were so high, they become more disenchanted once this happens and unhappy in their marriage. As sociologist Andrew J. Cherlin (2010, p. 4) observes, “Americans are conflicted about lifelong marriage: they value the stability and security of marriage, but they tend to believe that individuals who are unhappy with their marriages should be allowed to end them.” Still, the ideal of romantic love persists even after divorce, leading to remarriage and/or other intimate relationships.

Children and Families

The United States has about 36 million families with children under 18. About 70 percent of these are married-couple families, while 30 percent (up from about 14 percent in the 1950s) are one-parent families. Most of these latter families are headed by the mother (see Figure 10.2 “Family Households with Children under 18 Years of Age, 2010” ).

Figure 10.2 Family Households with Children under 18 Years of Age, 2010

The proportion of families with children under 18 that have only one parent varies significantly by race and ethnicity: Latino and African American families are more likely than white and Asian American households to have only one parent (see Figure 10.3 “Race, Ethnicity, and Percentage of Family Groups with Only One Parent, 2010” ). Similarly, whereas 30 percent of all children do not live with both their biological parents, this figure, too, varies by race and ethnicity: about 61 percent of African American children, 15 percent of Asian children, 33 percent of Latino children, and 23 percent of non-Latino white children.

Figure 10.3 Race, Ethnicity, and Percentage of Family Groups with Only One Parent, 2010

We will discuss several other issues affecting children later in this chapter. But before we move on, it is worth noting that children, despite all the joy and fulfillment they so often bring to parents, also tend to reduce parents’ emotional well-being. As a recent review summarized the evidence, “Parents in the United States experience depression and emotional distress more often than their childless adult counterparts. Parents of young children report far more depression, emotional distress and other negative emotions than non-parents, and parents of grown children have no better well-being than adults who never had children” (Simon, 2008, p. 41).

Children have these effects because raising them can be both stressful and expensive. Depending on household income, the average child costs parents between $134,000 and $270,000 from birth until age 18. College education obviously can cost tens of thousands of dollars beyond that. Robin W. Simon (2008) argues that American parents’ stress would be reduced if the government provided better and more affordable day care and after-school options, flexible work schedules, and tax credits for various parenting costs. She also thinks that the expectations Americans have of the joy of parenthood are unrealistically positive and that parental stress would be reduced if expectations became more realistic.

Key Takeaways

• Although the nuclear family has been very common, many children throughout history have not lived in a nuclear family, in part because a parent would die at an early age.
• Most Americans eventually marry. This fact means that marriage remains an important ideal in American life, even if not all marriages succeed.
• About 30 percent of children live with only one parent, almost always their mother.

For Your Review

• Write a brief essay in which you describe the advantages and disadvantages of the 1950s-type nuclear family in which the father works outside the home and the mother stays at home.
• The text notes that most people eventually marry. In view of the fact that so many marriages end in divorce, why do you think that so many people continue to marry?
• Some of the children who live only with their mothers were born out of wedlock. Do you think the parents should have married for the sake of their child? Why or why not?

Cherlin, A. J. (2010). The marriage-go-round: The state of marriage and the family in America today . New York, NY: Vintage.

Cohn, D., Passel J., Wang, W., & Livingston, G. (2011). Barely half of US adults are married—a record low . Washington, DC: Pew Research Center.

Coontz, S. (1995, summer). The way we weren’t: The myth and reality of the “traditional” family. National Forum: The Phi Kappa Phi Journal , 11–14.

Friedan, B. (1963). The feminine mystique . New York, NY: W. W. Norton.

Gottlieb, B. (1993). The family in the Western world from the black death to the industrial age . New York, NY: Oxford University Press.

Hull, K. E., Meier, A., & Ortyl, T. (2012). The changing landscape of love and marriage. In D. Hartmann & C. Uggen (Eds.), The contexts reader (2nd ed., pp. 56–63). New York, NY: W. W. Norton.

Luscombe, B. (2010, November 18). Who needs marriage? A changing institution. Time . Retrieved from http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,2032116,2032100.html .

Marcus, R. (2011, December 18). The marriage gap presents a real cost. The Washington Post . Retrieved from http://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/the-marriage-gap-presents-a-real-cost/2011/12/16/gIQAz24DzO_story.html?hpid=z3 .

Seccombe, K. (2012). Families and their social worlds (2nd ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson.

Simon, R. W. (2008). The joys of parenthood, reconsidered. Contexts, 7 (2), 40–45.

Smith, R. T. (1996). The matrifocal family: Power, pluralism, and politics . New York, NY: Routledge.

Starbuck, G. H. (2010). Families in context (2nd ed.). Boulder, CO: Paradigm.

Social Problems Copyright © 2015 by University of Minnesota is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

Academia.edu no longer supports Internet Explorer.

To browse Academia.edu and the wider internet faster and more securely, please take a few seconds to  upgrade your browser .

Enter the email address you signed up with and we'll email you a reset link.

• We're Hiring!
• Help Center

Nuclear Family: Advantages and Disadvantages

Related Papers

Dr. Andrew Philips Adega

The fact that conflict is unavoidable in human societies is no longer contestable. Conflict connotes disagreement between two parties. When not checked, conflicts could degenerate into full scale wars with attendant loose of lives and property. Thus, conflict could be between two friends, family members, parents and children or between couples in a family. The paper ‘Managing Family Conflicts in Traditional Tiv Society’ seeks to examine how conflict is resolved in the family, especially between the husband and wife in Traditional Tiv society. Both the primary and secondary sources were employed for data collection. This includes the use of oral interview/observation methods as well as books, newspapers/magazines, journals and e-sources. The paper established that in Traditional Tiv society, family conflicts involving the husband and the wife were settled at the three levels of ya (compound) where the head of the compound (or ya) and other elders waded into the matter. Also, in matters concerning the sickness or death of the children by means of tsav (witchcraft); the wife could summon her paternal relations (igba) who apart from cautioning could take their sister/daughter and children away for protection. In some instances, the kwav (age grade) could be invited to wade into a crisis especially if a member of the age grade had died and the wife was experiencing untold hardship in the hands of the immediate family. The paper calls for the continuous use of the conflict management strategies hence conflicts cannot be avoided. The paper finally notes that the family is the foundation for any society and a stable and conflict-free family would translate into a peaceful society generally. Thus, all and sundry should work for the stability of families in Tivland, Nigeria, Africa and the world at large.

Amira Shafikah

Funsho Olatunde

David Metaloro

Abstract The increase of family breakdown down rate in Juba City has been due to alcohol and drugs addiction, financial problems, death, plus psychological, sexual and emotional abuse, threatening diseases like HIV/AIDs and inability to resolve conflict among others. The objective of the study was to investigate the causes of family breakdown and its effects on the children in Juba City. The effects of family breakdown on children include difficulties in school, stress, early engagement in sexual activities, insecure and afraid of the future, depression and fear of being abandoned. The forms of family breakdown identified during the study include death, separation and divorce. The rate of the family breakage was indicating 78.3%, though the study was based in Juba city, it reflects the entire country since all of the ten states’ habitants were included in study. Some of the cultural practices were found of backing up the high rate of family breakdown and such practices include force marriage, polygamy marriage, inheritance of widowers and high bride wealth. The study proved communication skills, creation of family laws, supporting the children of the low families, marriage preparation and parenting new initiatives and information giving and mediation are the fundamental alternative solution to family breakdown. In conclusion, the study proved the family breakdown affects the children performance in schools in line with other effects such as; stress, depression, fear of being abandoned, insecure and afraid of the future and torn in two among others.

Mustakim Mustakim

The family is the first place for children to get an education. Through the parents, the educational process is important values for the development of the child. Children will learn about the values of moral, spiritual, and ethical through parents. These values develop along with growing up of children. Therefore, pattern of parenting becomes important values in delivering identity of the child to adulthood. The above conditions will occur in intact families, but unlike the single parent family. Children who are raised by single parents feared to bring harm to the child's development, or education. Thus, single parent will struggle doing the maximum care, in order to dispel such concerns. Based on that researchers aim to conduct an analysis of parenting within the nuclear family (single parent). The implication of this study is to determine the pattern of education and guidance to children. This study used a qualitative approach with research subjects a single parent that has school-age children. Based on the analysis of research data which obtained the findings that: (1) single parent education related to parent's responsibilities to children, teaching methods applied in family environment, educational tools used and values education, and (2) parental guidance to children tend to religious guidance, social, academic, career and motivation.

Ghazanafar hussain

Owing to rapid industrialization and economic independency among the decedents, senior citizens are facing problems in their lives. Family patterns are drastically changes; children are less likely to adopt the joint family system to avoid the share of bundle of responsibilities. Decedents are more inclined to adopt nuclear family patterns; an easy away to leave the responsibilities. Resultantly older people feeling loneliness nobody is willing to look after them which leads them to join the shelter homes. The present study is carried out in district Lahore to critically analyze the consequences and socioeconomic factors which leads the old people to reside in the Shelter homes. Sample was comprised on 60 inmates of Shelter Homes in district Lahore. Private and public shelter homes were also selected purposively and sample analyzed through focus group discussions.

Scandinavian Journal of Caring Sciences

Mahshid Foroughan

Scand J Caring Sci; 2010; 24; 274–280 Understanding loneliness in the lived experiences of Iranian eldersElderly people are especially vulnerable to loneliness. Loneliness as an important phenomenon is correlated with a variety of emotional, physical and health-related complications. However, a few studies have investigated the experience of loneliness from the perspectives of elderly people living in communities. The aim of this study was to explore the lived experiences of Iranian elders of loneliness. A qualitative study using phenomenological approach was employed with four men and nine women living in their own houses. In-depth interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed using hermeneutic methods. The emerged themes were ‘an aversive emotional state’, ‘isolated from intimate relationships’, ‘being deprived from social and external support systems’ and ‘being abused and neglected’. Our study findings support the view that the experience of loneliness creates an aversive emotional state which is associated with negative and painful feelings. In addition, it was revealed that lack of access to intimate relationships and supportive systems as well as the experience of being abused and neglected were major factors contributing to the feelings of loneliness among Iranian elders. In terms of recommendation for practice, worldwide nurses are expected to be knowledgeable about the factors which increase feelings of loneliness. Alternatively, they should develop coping mechanisms among elders with the cooperation of their family members; also, attract community attention in order to improve social services in both quality and quantity.

ekstensi 2017

Nizam Azhari

RELATED PAPERS

Monireh Anoosheh

Monika Mynarska , Bernhard Riederer , Desiree Krivanek

Snezana Kirova

hannah yuayan

•   We're Hiring!
•   Help Center
• Find new research papers in:
• Health Sciences
• Earth Sciences
• Cognitive Science
• Mathematics
• Computer Science
• Academia ©2024

Student Essays

Essay on Nuclear Family | Benefits of Nuclear Family Essay

Nuclear family is the system of family setup wherein a couple and their dependent children live together. It is also known as conjugal family or elementary family. Read the Following Essay on Nuclear Family, its meaning, concept, Importance, few advantages and disadvantages of Nucelar Family

Essay on Nuclear Family | Concept & Importance | Advantages of Nuclear Family

A nuclear family has its own share of advantages and disadvantages. Advantages may include financial stability, strong emotional bonds, better raising of children, etc. On the other hand, disadvantages may include less social interaction, lack of support during tough times, etc.

>>>> Read Also : ” Essay On Relationship & Its Importance in Life “

Importance and Benefits of Nuclear Family:

Nuclear families have many advantages. One of the main advantages is that they provide stability to the children. Nuclear families typically have less divorce and fewer problems than other family types. This means that children can feel more secure and have a better chance of growing up in a stable environment.

Another advantage of nuclear families is that they allow children to form strong emotional bonds with their parents. In a nuclear family, the parents are typically more involved in their children’s lives than in other family types. This allows for a stronger parent-child relationship and can lead to a better upbringing of the children.

Nuclear families also have financial advantages. In most cases, the parents in a nuclear family are both working, which allows for more financial stability. Additionally, the cost of raising children is typically lower in a nuclear family than in other family types.

Despite the many advantages of nuclear families, they also have some disadvantages. One disadvantage is that nuclear families can be less social Nuclear families also tend to be more close-knit and have stronger emotional bonds than other family types. This is both good and bad. On the one hand, it allows for more support during tough times. On the other hand, it can also lead to a lack of diversity and can make it difficult for family members to leave the family if they want to.

>>> Read Also : “Paragraph On My Grandmother ”

Nuclear families have both advantages and disadvantages. However, the advantages typically outweigh the disadvantages. Nuclear families provide stability, strong emotional bonds, and a better financial situation for children. Additionally, nuclear families typically have less divorce and fewer problems than other family types. Overall, nuclear families are a positive force in society.

Similar Posts

Essay on Me and My Big Mouth For Students

This easy and simple essay talks about my straightforwardness, me as fluent and ardent talker. I speak in loud voice and make clear everything and how sometime I boast or brag about myself. This essay also talks about the disadvantages of straightforwardness in life. Essay on Me and My Big Mouth For Students I am…

Essay on Social Stratification [ Types, Causes, Effects ]

This essay talks about the meaning and concept of social stratification, main features of social inequality present in our Indian society today, causes of social stratification and effects on society. Essay on Social Stratification | Meaning, Concept & Importance Social stratification is called as the division in society across classes, castes and gender. It is…

Short Essay on Silence for Children

Silence is one of the most important things in our lives. It can be seen as a positive or negative thing depending on the situation. Silence has various aspects and how it can impact in our lives. Silence can be seen as a good thing when we need to focus or concentrate on something. It…

Essay on Caring for the Elderly People in Society

Elderly People carry huge importance in our Indian Society. However, there are many countries in the world where, with the change in modern lifestyles, Elderly people lack support and sympathy from the society members. There are, in certain instances, the cases of violation of the rights of elderly. The following Essay on Caring for the…

100 Classroom Rules | Classroom Rules Explained in Points

Classroom rules and regulations are essential for ensuring the productive learning outcome of Preschool, KG, Elementary, High school as well as college-level students. The classroom regulations should be a collaborative activity. They should be simple, easy, short, brief, and to the point. The classroom ideas should be explained with the help of a chart, poster,…

4 Best Written Essays on the Person I Admire the Most

Having an ideal person in life is of great importance.  We all need someone who supports us in every life situation, who will always be there for you, and help you if needed. No matter what happens, that person is your support system. This could be your best friend or your family member, but it…

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Your Article Library

Nuclear family: advantages and disadvantages.

ADVERTISEMENTS:

The individual nuclear family is a universal social phenomenon. Duncan Mitchell in his ‘Dictionary of sociology has defined nuclear family as ‘A small group composed of husband and wife and immature children which constitutes a unit apart from the rest of the community.”

In simple words a nuclear family is one which consists of the husband wife and their unmarried children. Soon after marriage, the children leave their parental home and establish their separate household. Hence a nuclear family is an autonomous unit free from the control of the elders. Since there is physical distance between parents and their married children, there is minimum interdependence between them. Thus a nuclear family is mostly independent. Modern family is a typical example of nuclear family.

Advantage of Nuclear Family:

(1) Development of Personality:

Nuclear family plays an important role in the development of personality of individuals. Children are more close to the parents and can have more free and frank discussion about their problems with parents which helps for the better development of their personality.

(2) Better Condition of Women:

In nuclear families the condition of woman is better than joint families. She gets enough time to look after her children. She also gets time to plan and manage her house according to her own idea. There is no interference of elders. Her husband can also devote more attention to the wife in nuclear family.

(3) Less number of children:

Family planning programme becomes successful in nuclear families. The members of nuclear family have to plan and limit their family as they have to bear all the responsibilities and expenses themselves to rear their children. The children also are benefited in the long run as they in herit directly property from their parents.

(4) Peace and Harmony:

Peace and harmony are very much essential for a pleasant family life. In nuclear families there is no misunderstanding and they enjoy a harmonious atmosphere by living together.

(5) Individual Responsibilities:

In nuclear family there is no shifting of responsibility like in joint family. The parents are bound to take responsibility of their children by themselves. The head of family has to work hard to take care of his family.

(6) Problem Free Unit:

There is no chance of in-laws conflict. Financial problem does not arise in nuclear family. Money can be saved for future achievement and to face uncertain crisis of family. All enjoy independent life and can be engaged in any economic activities to supplement family income. The will and desires of children are considered and are given proper weight. All members of nuclear family are emotional secured. No superiority complex is felt by anybody. All are given equal weightage.

Disadvantages:

(1) Economic disadvantage:

The property of the family is divided among the brothers and each live separately. The land being subdivided does not yield much production resulting the land as an uneconomic holding. On the other hand one has to employ other labours to achieve the desired goal due to limited size of family. In this way the economic loss is more in nuclear family by paying remuneration to the labourers.

(2) Insecurity of Children:

In nuclear family both husband and wife adopt profession outside the family, then children are neglected and looked after by the servants. They feel lonely and emotional insecure. They develop more anxiety. If the bread winner dies or becomes incapable to en, there is no one to support the family. Even in time of emergency like sickness, accident or during pregnancy family members are very much neglected and there is no one to take care of them.

(3) Agency to Develop Bad Qualities of Inmates:

As it is an autonomous unit, it is free from the social control of elders. So the children develop all sorts of bad qualities like theft, her and lead their lifestyle in indiscipline way. They become unsocial as they do not get opportunity to mix with other members of the family.

(4) Loneliness:

Feeling of loneliness is one of important drawbacks in nuclear family. After completion of household task, the housewife becomes alone at home. At the time of emergency one can get any help and support from any other.

(5) Insecure For Old, Widow and Divorce:

In nuclear family widowed, old and divorce fare very much neglected. No one in the family bothers to take care of them. Physically and psychologically they feel insecure. Above all in nuclear family children are socially, emotionally and educational maladjusted. There is a chance of family breakage in case of conflict between the compel. Still then everybody wants to go for a nuclear family in the modern society because of its advantages which certainly outnumber the disadvantages.

Related Articles:

• Distinction between Four Sub-Structures of Family
• Joint Family: Top 9 Characteristics of Joint Family – Explained!

Comments are closed.

Essay on Nuclear Family

Family is regarded as the basic unit of society. It consists of a father, mother, grandparents and children all living together under one roof. Family forms an essential part of our life. It is the first institution of the children and thus inculcates the moral values in them so that they may grow up to become good citizens of the society. There is the existence of several types of families in the society like Joint family, Nuclear family, single-parent family, etc. Every type of family has its own merits and demerits.

10 Lines Essay on Nuclear Family

1) A nuclear family is one which consists of a mother, father and their children.

2) Nuclear family is a small family, also referred to as a conjugal or elementary family.

3) The concept of the nuclear family originated from England in 13 th century.

4) A nuclear family consists of only two generations.

5) The trend of nuclear families gained popularity in the 20 th century.

6) In a nuclear family, all the members are free to make their own decisions.

7) Privacy of members is well protected in this type of family.

8) However, children are deprived of the love of their grandparents.

9) Nuclear families are free from unnecessary quarrels and disagreements.

10) Urbanization and modernization are the main causes of increase in nuclear families.

Long Essay on Nuclear Family in English

These days the concept of the nuclear family is rising in society and so I have elaborated a long essay on the merits and demerits of the nuclear family. I hope that it might be an aid to students of all classes i.e. 1-12th in writing an essay, assignment, and project on this topic.

1800 Words Essay – Essentials, Merits and Demerits of Nuclear Family

Introduction

We cannot imagine our life without our families. It is the one that makes us feel secure, helps us in making decisions during difficulties and celebrates our joy and festivals. Many of us might be a part of extended families while many of us would belong to nuclear families. India is a nation where a joint family system has been common but nowadays it is being replaced by the concept of the nuclear family in most of the urban areas. We will be discussing below the concept of the nuclear family, its rising trend in India and its advantages and disadvantages.

What is meant by a Nuclear Family?

The nuclear family is stated as a small family that consists of father, mother, and children. It is also called an elementary family or conjugal family. The number of people in the nuclear family is very less as compared to the number of members of a joint family. The children after marriage leave their families and settle with their wife and children. In other words, a married couple with their biological children or adopted children lives together as a small family called a nuclear family. 

In a nuclear family, mother and father are only the head of the family. These families do not have any elder members like that of extended families. Thus the married couples are free to make decisions according to their own will. They live an independent life with any number of children.

Concept of Nuclear Family

The concept of the nuclear family is considered to have originated in the 13th century in England. This concept emerged in England after proto-industrialization. There was no concept of extended families having people of many generations living together. They adopted the concept of shifting into single families after marriage.

However, the term and trend of the nuclear family became popular in the 20th century. This family structure trend became more popular in the United States during the 1960s and 1970s. Later the trend of nuclear families started decreasing in America and people shifted to other types of family structures.

The Reason for calling it a “Nuclear Family”

The term nuclear family came into existence in the 20th century. Some sources state that the term originated in 1924 and 1925. This age was termed as the atomic age and thus the term nuclear has its connection with the noun ‘Nucleus’. The term nucleus means the core or center of something. Therefore, in the same context, a nuclear family means a family whose all members are part of one common core. This gives it the name nuclear family.

The Framework of the Nuclear Families

Nuclear family, unlike joint families, consists of members of two generations i.e. the one in which they are born and the second in which they marry. The other generation is not possible until and unless they marry their children in some other families. The nuclear family is basically formed of two types of nuclear families to exist in one single family.

• Family of Orientation- The family in which an individual is born and raised.
• Family of Procreation- The family formed after the individuals are married to a girl or boy who    belongs to another family.

Rising of the Concept of Nuclear Family in India

A nuclear family is a very simple structured family that consists of a small number of people as compared to the Joint family.  The term family when discussed in India it commonly refers to the Traditional or Joint family. The joint family has been a part of Indian culture and tradition from ancient times. Nowadays, the trend of nuclear families is rising in the urban areas of India.

This is happening at a fast pace in the cities. The children do not want to live under the supervision of their elders after their marriage. They want to live an independent life with full privacy and without any type of disturbance. The factors like modernization and urbanization are promoting the people to practice the concept of nuclear families in the cities rather than being a part of traditional families.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Nuclear Family

There are several types of family structures prevalent in society and the nuclear family is one among them. Some of the advantages and disadvantages of nuclear family enlisted below:

• Freedom to Make Decisions- The members of a nuclear family are free to make any decision they want. They can decide everything by themselves without any interference of their elders. This is not possible in a joint family as there are elder members in the family and they advise the younger ones in their decision-making.
• Development of Good Attributes- The development of different attributes in the children happens in a better way in nuclear families. Thus, this contributes to the good personality development of the children. Moreover, the children in nuclear families are close to their parents and thus can discuss every problem they are facing in an easier way.
• Improved Status of Women- The women in the nuclear families get more time to after themselves and their children. They are not under pressure to work according to the elders of the family. They are free to do whatever they want. Husbands and wives get quality time to spend with each other in nuclear families that are not possible every time in joint families.
• Loving and Peaceful Atmosphere- There are fewer members in a nuclear family than an extended family. Nuclear families with fewer people have very less chances of misunderstanding and conflicts. There is the existence of peace and harmony among the members and that is essential for living a happy family life.
• Sole Responsibilities- The responsibilities in a nuclear family are on the parents, unlike the joint family. The parents are individually responsible for the income and every need of the children as they are only the head of the family.
• Savings and Family Planning is Possible- The income of the house in the nuclear families is not shared among all like the joint families. It is safe in the hands of the parents and they can save it for the future of their children. Moreover, the number of children in nuclear families is limited as the parents can opt for family planning.

Disadvantages

• Children are Devoid of Love from their Grandparents- The children in nuclear families are not able to get the love and affection of their grandparents. Children living in joint families are well-mannered and know well to tackle several difficulties easily.
• No Elders to Guide in Difficulties- The nuclear families lack elders and experienced people and thus there is no one to guide the members during the time of difficulty. The parents themselves have to make decisions about everything and that is very difficult sometimes.
• Financial Loss- The breaking of joint families in the nuclear families results in the division of property or land into different small parts. Every brother gets a small piece of land and thus the yield is also reduced. They have to employ laborers for carrying out all the agricultural work and thus paying for the same is a kind of financial loss.
• Insecurity in Children- The children in nuclear families are devoid of love and care of their parents if both mother and father are working. They are raised and fed by the maids in the houses. This lack of love and time by the parents inculcates the feeling of insecurity and loneliness in the children. This causes many of them to be addicted to bad habits also.
• Lack of Moral and Social Values- The children in the nuclear family many times lack social attributes and become undisciplined. They become habitual of living in freedom and do not like mixing with other family members.
• Widows are Neglected- The widows in nuclear families do not get proper attention and care and they feel as if they are neglected. The children in such cases feel socially and emotionally insecure. This is not the case of widows in joint families. The widow gets good support from the other members of the family and thus forgets every pain gradually and starts living a normal life.

Nuclear Family v/s Joint Family

A joint family is one that consists of people up to three generations living together under the same roof while a nuclear family in contrast is small and simple with very only mother, father and children. There is the existence of mainly two types of family structures in India namely joint and nuclear families. The joint family also referred to as the traditional family has been in existence since ancient times in India. Earlier the people in India were confined to the villages and they were involved in the occupation of agriculture. Thus, they preferred to live together and the male members of the family were involved in the same family business. The concept of the nuclear family is however not a new concept but the structure of this kind of family was more prevalent in the western culture. It has become common in India at present because of modernization and changes in the lifestyle of people.

Is Nuclear Family A Perfect Family?

Every type of family structure present in society has its own benefits and drawbacks. Some of us desire to be a part of a nuclear family while others are a joint family and alternatives. It is wrong to say that the nuclear family is a perfect family. It depends upon the individual what he or she desires. There are conflicts, love, problems, etc in every type of family. It is we the members of the family who make the atmosphere of the family a peaceful and loving one.

According to me, both joint and nuclear families are good structures of families in society. I have always been a part of a nuclear family so I have a habit to dwell in the nuclear family but I had always felt the absence of my grandparents and other relatives too. The enjoyment of any type of celebration or festival in joint families is very interesting rather than the nuclear families. Therefore, being a part of the nuclear family I always have missed the warmth and love of a joint family. We can be part of nuclear families but remain in touch with our other family members and develop the habit of visiting our grandparents at a fixed interval of time.

The type of family that we desire to have is our individual choice. The nuclear family trend is rising but the importance of joint families is always felt. The love and care of different members in the joint family is really amazing. Moreover, the presence of grandparents in the joint families is a boon for the children as they teach them good values and morals. Children are also very close to their grandparents because of the love and affection they receive from them.

I hope this information would be helpful for you to know about the merits and demerits of Nuclear Family in a very convenient way.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions on Merits and Demerits of Nuclear Family

Ans. The word nuclear family came into existence in the thirteenth century.

Ans. The word family has been derived from the Latin word ‘Famulus’ that means servant.

Ans. The term ‘Nuclear family’ was coined by George P. Murdock, an anthropologist.

Ans. The love between the family members is stated as Storge(empathy bond).

Ans. Argentina is a country in the world that has the prevalent concept of nuclear families.

Related Posts

Essay on digital india, cashless india essay, essay on child is father of the man, essay on causes, effects and prevention of corona virus, essay on dr. sarvepalli radhakrishnan, durga puja essay, essay on summer vacation, essay on my plans for summer vacation, essay on holiday.

Learn Anthropology

No products in the cart.

Username or Email Address

Remember Me Forgot Password?

A link to set a new password will be sent to your email address.

Your personal data will be used to support your experience throughout this website, to manage access to your account, and for other purposes described in our privacy policy .

Get New Password -->

Nuclear Family and Joint Family

• Last Updated: Aug 15, 2023

A family forms the first line of socialization for an individual and plays a pivotal role in shaping their perspective and behavior. The two primary types of family structures worldwide are nuclear family and joint family. A nuclear family typically includes parents and their offspring, while a joint family is an extended kinship network consisting of grandparents, uncles, aunts, and cousins.

Nuclear Family

A nuclear family, also referred to as an elementary family, consists of two parents and their children, all living under one roof [1] . It is considered the basic unit in many societies.

Joint Family

A joint family, or an extended family, is a large family unit that includes three or more generations living together. It includes the parents, their children, and other relatives such as grandparents, uncles, aunts, and cousins [2] .

Comparison Between Nuclear and Joint Family

Advantages and disadvantages of a nuclear family.

• Autonomy : Nuclear families provide a high degree of independence and freedom to make decisions [3] .
• Financial Management : It is simpler to manage expenses and savings as there are fewer family members involved.
• Less Conflict : There may be fewer conflicts and disagreements as fewer people live together.

Disadvantages

• Lack of Support : In a nuclear family, parents often need to manage work and childcare simultaneously, which can be stressful.
• Lack of Shared Responsibility : With fewer adults in the household, responsibilities cannot be distributed as evenly as in joint families.

Advantages and Disadvantages of a Joint Family

• Shared Responsibilities : Duties and tasks are shared among members, reducing individual workload.
• Support Network : Joint families offer a built-in support network in terms of child-rearing, elder care, and emotional support [4] .
• Preservation of Traditions : Traditions and cultural practices are more likely to be preserved and passed down through generations.
• Less Privacy : Due to the large number of family members, privacy can be limited.
• Conflicts : Larger family sizes can lead to more disagreements and conflicts [5] .
• Financial Pressure : The responsibility of supporting a larger number of people may result in financial pressure.

Changing Trends in Family Structure

Over time, societal shifts and economic pressures have led to a transformation in family structure. More families are transitioning from joint to nuclear families, primarily due to urbanization and globalization.

However, there is also a new trend of ‘joint-nuclear’ families emerging, especially in urban areas. These are nuclear families that maintain close ties and frequent interaction with their extended families while still maintaining separate households. This system aims to blend the benefits of both nuclear and joint families.

The Way Forward: Building Healthy Family Relationships

Regardless of the family structure, what matters most is creating a supportive, nurturing environment. Open communication, mutual respect, and shared responsibilities can foster healthy relationships within any family setting.

Whether it’s a nuclear family offering a sense of autonomy or a joint family providing a robust support network, each family type has its unique strengths. Recognizing these strengths and navigating through the challenges will help maintain harmonious relationships within the family.

In conclusion, both nuclear and joint families have their distinct advantages and challenges. The choice between a nuclear family and a joint family can depend on several factors, including cultural norms, economic conditions, personal preferences, and the need for support or autonomy. The family type does not determine the quality of relationships and values within; instead, it’s the nurturing environment that makes the family healthy and fulfilling.

[1] O’Neil, D. (2006). Nuclear Family: Definition, Advantages & Disadvantages . Study.com.

[2] Oxford Reference (2021). Extended (or joint) family . Oxford University Press.

[3] McGoldrick, M., Carter, B., & Garcia-Preto, N. (2016). The Expanded Family Life Cycle: Individual, Family, and Social Perspectives . Pearson.

[4] Beteille, A. (1961). The Joint Family and Social Change . Economic Weekly.

[5] Jayson, S. (2005). Family Face-off: Traditional vs. the Modern . USA Today.

Anthroholic helps the world learn Anthropology for Free. We strive to provide comprehensive and high quality content for deep understanding of the discipline.

Newsletter Updates

Enter your email address below and subscribe to our newsletter

I accept the Privacy Policy

Related Posts

Leave a Reply Cancel Reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Nuclear Family vs Joint Family Essay

Mostly, there are two types of the family i.e. Joint family and Nuclear family, joint family systems are very ancient in the society of India.

Many differences are found in various religions, castes in terms of property rights, marriage, divorce etc. Yet the ideal of joint family is acceptable.

The reason for joint family in India lies in ancient traditions and ideals in addition to the economy of the farming.

This ideal is transmitted to the people through the epic of Ramayana and Mahabharata, but nowadays people are living in single family.

Prior to single family people lived together in joint family, there was a head in the joint family, whom everyone believed.

Joint families are ending nowadays and there has been an increase in single-family due to many reasons.

Nuclear Family vs. Joint Family Essay:

A typical single family is a husband, a wife, some children, the number of members in a nuclear family is very small.

In the joint family system, the number of dependents living under the roof is very large.

The grandparents, married brothers, sisters, son’s wives, grandchildren, grandchildren, other dependents and relatives living in a joint family.

Responsibility:

The responsibility of one nuclear family rests on the couple.

The joint family system places a responsibility on the head of the family, trains elderly youth for various occupations, marries them, gives them the start of life, and takes care of the frail and the old.

Binding of unity and affection:

Compared to the nuclear family, there are higher bonds of unity and affection between members of each other family and relationships in a joint family.

In a joint family, the prosperity and adversity of the family are shared equally.

A subsistence single family is dependent on the spouse or both.

A joint family system ensures the least subsistence of all family members

In single family, young couples get more freedom, they can do the things they love freely.

They can also take a risk with their money and demonstrate their commercial nature.

In joint family, individuals get less independence.

Family members have joint rights in family property and property, there is less potential for personality development.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Joint family Vs Nuclear Family Essay:

Experience and self-reliance:

In joint family i.e. where there are experienced married couple as parents who can give good advice to new couple.

Other experienced and intelligent members like grandparents, uncles and aunts can also help the new couple to manage with those problems.

Along with this, the attitude of looking at domestic problems in the joint family is also different.

Others get experience in joint family, so that you can solve problems easily and correctly, such as raising children, solving financial and marital problems.

On the other hand, in a single family, the couple has the freedom to make decisions themselves.

In a single family, the couple can make all the rules, rituals or traditions according to their own this creates self-sufficiency in them.

Raising children:

Raising children in a joint family is satisfactory, but it is difficult to teach them discipline because there are many instructors.

But in a single family it is easy to discipline a child because the children get all the instructions from their parents only.

In such a situation, the child easily accepts everything from the parents and behaves properly.

Everyone’s loneliness:

A child living in a single family feels lonely because he has no siblings to play as a joint family.

In distinction, this does not happen in a joint family.

Many times in single family parents are making mistakes, then there is no one to fix it, which has a bad effect on the upbringing of children.

Outside interference:

A single family is a separate couple family that survives the hassle of other reforms.

Due to lack of members and no interference in a family, the couple get a chance to understand each other.

All members in the joint family help each other. For example, you will also get support from other members of the household in handling the newborn.

Status of women:

The condition of women in the joint family is not very good, it only lives in the kitchen and the education of children, whereas in a single family, women have the right to live their own life.

RELATED ESSAY:

MY FAMILY ESSAY | MY MOTHER ESSAY | MY BEST FRIEND ESSAY

Conclusion:

There are various advantages and disadvantages of joint family as well as single-family, but in the end, it is entirely up to you in which circumstances you want to raise your life and your children.

There is nothing right or wrong, some people prefer to live in single family and some in joint family.

• Section Under Essays

Gupshups is the place to find the most inspirational & motivation quotes, essay, speechs & lot more.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Chapter 10: The Changing Family

10.1 overview of the family, learning objectives.

• Describe why many children throughout history have not lived in a nuclear family.
• Understand the status of the nuclear family in the United States since the colonial period.
• Describe the major marriage and family arrangements in the United States today.

A family is a group of two or more people who are related by blood, marriage, adoption, or a mutual commitment and who care for one another. Defined in this way, the family is universal or nearly universal: Some form of the family has existed in every society, or nearly every society, that we know about (Starbuck, 2010). Yet it is also true that many types of families have existed, and the cross-cultural and historical record indicates that these different forms of the family can all “work”: They provide practical and emotional support for their members and they socialize their children.

It is important to keep this last statement in mind, because Americans until the last few decades thought of only one type of family, and that is the nuclear family : A married heterosexual couple and their young children living by themselves under one roof. The nuclear family has existed in most societies with which scholars are familiar. An extended family , which consists of parents, their children, and other relatives, has a nuclear family at its core and was quite common in prehistoric societies. Many one-parent families begin as (two-parent) nuclear families that dissolve upon divorce or separation or, more rarely, the death of one of the parents. In recent decades, one-parent families have become more common in the United States because of divorce and births out of wedlock, but they were actually very common throughout most of human history because many spouses died early in life and because many babies were born out of wedlock.

Although the nuclear family is a common family arrangement today, historically many children lived with only one parent because spouses died early and many babies were born out of wedlock.

Wikimedia Commons – CC BY 2.0.

Although many prehistoric societies featured nuclear families, a few societies studied by anthropologists have not had them. In these societies, a father does not live with a woman after she has his child and sees them either irregularly or not at all. Despite the absence of a father and the lack of a nuclear family, this type of family arrangement seems to have worked well in these societies. In particular, children are cared for and grow up to be productive members of their societies (Smith, 1996).

These examples do not invalidate the fact that nuclear families are almost universal. But they do indicate that the functions of the nuclear family can be achieved through other family arrangements. If that is true, perhaps the oft-cited concern over the “breakdown” of the 1950s-style nuclear family in modern America is at least somewhat undeserved. As indicated by the examples just given, children can and do thrive without two parents. To say this is meant neither to extol divorce, births out of wedlock, and fatherless families nor to minimize the problems they may involve. Rather, it is meant simply to indicate that the nuclear family is not the only viable form of family organization (Seccombe, 2012).

In fact, although nuclear families remain the norm in most societies, in practice they are something of a historical rarity: Until about a century ago, many spouses died by their mid-forties, and many babies were born out of wedlock. In medieval Europe, for example, people died early from disease, malnutrition, and other problems. One consequence of early mortality was that many children could expect to outlive at least one of their parents and thus essentially were raised in one-parent families or in stepfamilies (Gottlieb, 1993).

During the American colonial period, different family types abounded, and the nuclear family was by no means the only type (Coontz, 1995). Nomadic Native American groups had relatively small nuclear families, while nonnomadic groups had larger extended families. Because nuclear families among African Americans slaves were difficult to achieve, slaves adapted by developing extended families, adopting orphans, and taking in other people not related by blood or marriage. Many European parents of colonial children died because average life expectancy was only 45 years. The one-third to one-half of children who outlived at least one of their parents lived in stepfamilies or with just their surviving parent. Mothers were so busy working the land and doing other tasks that they devoted relatively little time to child care, which instead was entrusted to older children or servants.

Moving much forward in US history, an important change in American families occurred during the 1940s after World War II ended. As men came home after serving in the military in Europe and Japan, books, magazines, and newspapers exhorted women to have babies, and babies they did have: People got married at younger ages and the birth rate soared, resulting in the now famous baby boom generation . Meanwhile, divorce rates dropped. The national economy thrived as auto and other factory jobs multiplied, and many families for the first time could dream of owning their own homes. Suburbs sprang up, and many families moved to them. Many families during the 1950s did indeed fit the Leave It to Beaver model of the breadwinner-homemaker suburban nuclear family. Following the Depression of the 1930s and the war of the 1940s, the 1950s seemed an almost idyllic decade.

Even so, less than 60 percent of American children during the 1950s lived in breadwinner-homemaker nuclear families. Moreover, many lived in poverty, as the poverty rate then was almost twice as high as it is today. Teenage pregnancy rates were about twice as high as today. Although not publicized back then, alcoholism and violence in families were common. Historians have found that many women in this era were unhappy with their homemaker roles, Mrs. Cleaver (Beaver’s mother) to the contrary, suffering from what Betty Friedan (1963) famously called the “feminine mystique.”

During the 1960s and 1970s, women began to enter the labor force. They did so to increase their families’ incomes and to achieve greater self-fulfillment. More than 60 percent of married women with children under 6 years of age are now in the labor force, compared to less than 19 percent in 1960. At about the same time, divorce rates increased for several reasons that we examine later in this chapter. Changes in the American family had begun, and along with them various controversies and problems.

Marriage and the Family in the United States Today

In the United States today, marriage remains an important institution. Only about 27 percent of all adults (18 or older) have never been married, 56 percent are currently married, 10 percent are divorced, and 6 percent are widowed (see Figure 10.1 “Marital Status of the US Population 18 Years of Age or Older, 2010” ). Thus 72 percent of American adults have been married, whether or not they are currently married. Because more than half of the never-married people are under 30, it is fair to say that many of them will be getting married sometime in the future. When we look just at people aged 45–54, about 87 percent are currently married or had been married at some point in their lives. In a 2010 poll, only 5 percent of Americans under age 30 said they did not want to get married (Luscombe, 2010). These figures all indicate that marriage continues to be an important ideal in American life, even if not all marriages succeed. As one sociologist has said, “Getting married is a way to show family and friends that you have a successful personal life. It’s like the ultimate merit badge” (Luscombe, 2010).

Although marriage remains an important institution, two recent trends do suggest that its importance is declining for some segments of the population (Cohn, Passel, Wang, & Livingston, 2011). First, although 71 percent of adults have been married, this figure represents a drop from 85 percent in 1960. Second, education greatly affects whether we marry and stay married, and marriage is less common among people without a college degree.

Figure 10.1 Marital Status of the US Population 18 Years of Age or Older, 2010

Source: Data from US Census Bureau. (2012). Statistical abstract of the United States: 2012 . Washington, DC: US Government Printing Office. Retrieved from http://www.census.gov/compendia/statab .

Recent figures provide striking evidence of this relationship. Almost two-thirds (64 percent) of college graduates are currently married, compared to less than half (47 percent) of high school graduates and high school dropouts combined. People with no more than a high school degree are less likely than college graduates to marry at all, and they are more likely to get divorced, as we shall discuss again later, if they do marry.

This difference in marriage rates worsens the financial situation that people with lower education already face. As one observer noted, “As marriage increasingly becomes a phenomenon of the better-off and better-educated, the incomes of two-earner married couples diverge more from those of struggling single adults” (Marcus, 2011). One of the many consequences of this education gap in marriage is that the children of one-parent households are less likely than those of two-parent households to graduate high school and to attend college. In this manner, a parent’s low education helps to perpetuate low education among the parent’s children.

The United States Compared to Other Democracies

In several ways, the United States differs from other Western democracies in its view of marriage and in its behavior involving marriage and other intimate relationships (Cherlin, 2010; Hull, Meier, & Ortyl, 2012). First, Americans place more emphasis than their Western counterparts on the ideal of romantic love as a basis for marriage and other intimate relationships and on the cultural importance of marriage. Second, the United States has higher rates of marriage than other Western nations. Third, the United States also has higher rates of divorce than other Western nations; for example, 42 percent of American marriages end in divorce after fifteen years, compared to only 8 percent in Italy and Spain. Fourth, Americans are much more likely than other Western citizens to remarry once they are divorced, to cohabit in short-term relationships, and, in general, to move from one intimate relationship to another, a practice called serial monogamy . This practice leads to instability that can have negative impacts on any children that may be involved and also on the adults involved.

Americans place more emphasis than Europeans on the ideal of romantic love as the basis for marriage. This emphasis helps account for why the United States has a higher divorce rate than many European nations.

Ken Witherow – Digimem Studio Photo Shoot – CC BY 2.0.

The US emphasis on romantic love helps account for its high rates of marriage, divorce, and serial monogamy. It leads people to want to be in an intimate relationship, marital or cohabiting. Then when couples get married because they are in love, many quickly find that passionate romantic love can quickly fade; because their expectations of romantic love were so high, they become more disenchanted once this happens and unhappy in their marriage. As sociologist Andrew J. Cherlin (2010, p. 4) observes, “Americans are conflicted about lifelong marriage: they value the stability and security of marriage, but they tend to believe that individuals who are unhappy with their marriages should be allowed to end them.” Still, the ideal of romantic love persists even after divorce, leading to remarriage and/or other intimate relationships.

Children and Families

The United States has about 36 million families with children under 18. About 70 percent of these are married-couple families, while 30 percent (up from about 14 percent in the 1950s) are one-parent families. Most of these latter families are headed by the mother (see Figure 10.2 “Family Households with Children under 18 Years of Age, 2010” ).

Figure 10.2 Family Households with Children under 18 Years of Age, 2010

The proportion of families with children under 18 that have only one parent varies significantly by race and ethnicity: Latino and African American families are more likely than white and Asian American households to have only one parent (see Figure 10.3 “Race, Ethnicity, and Percentage of Family Groups with Only One Parent, 2010” ). Similarly, whereas 30 percent of all children do not live with both their biological parents, this figure, too, varies by race and ethnicity: about 61 percent of African American children, 15 percent of Asian children, 33 percent of Latino children, and 23 percent of non-Latino white children.

Figure 10.3 Race, Ethnicity, and Percentage of Family Groups with Only One Parent, 2010

We will discuss several other issues affecting children later in this chapter. But before we move on, it is worth noting that children, despite all the joy and fulfillment they so often bring to parents, also tend to reduce parents’ emotional well-being. As a recent review summarized the evidence, “Parents in the United States experience depression and emotional distress more often than their childless adult counterparts. Parents of young children report far more depression, emotional distress and other negative emotions than non-parents, and parents of grown children have no better well-being than adults who never had children” (Simon, 2008, p. 41).

Children have these effects because raising them can be both stressful and expensive. Depending on household income, the average child costs parents between $134,000 and $270,000 from birth until age 18. College education obviously can cost tens of thousands of dollars beyond that. Robin W. Simon (2008) argues that American parents’ stress would be reduced if the government provided better and more affordable day care and after-school options, flexible work schedules, and tax credits for various parenting costs. She also thinks that the expectations Americans have of the joy of parenthood are unrealistically positive and that parental stress would be reduced if expectations became more realistic.

Key Takeaways

• Although the nuclear family has been very common, many children throughout history have not lived in a nuclear family, in part because a parent would die at an early age.
• Most Americans eventually marry. This fact means that marriage remains an important ideal in American life, even if not all marriages succeed.
• About 30 percent of children live with only one parent, almost always their mother.

For Your Review

• Write a brief essay in which you describe the advantages and disadvantages of the 1950s-type nuclear family in which the father works outside the home and the mother stays at home.
• The text notes that most people eventually marry. In view of the fact that so many marriages end in divorce, why do you think that so many people continue to marry?
• Some of the children who live only with their mothers were born out of wedlock. Do you think the parents should have married for the sake of their child? Why or why not?

Cherlin, A. J. (2010). The marriage-go-round: The state of marriage and the family in America today . New York, NY: Vintage.

Cohn, D., Passel J., Wang, W., & Livingston, G. (2011). Barely half of US adults are married—a record low . Washington, DC: Pew Research Center.

Coontz, S. (1995, summer). The way we weren’t: The myth and reality of the “traditional” family. National Forum: The Phi Kappa Phi Journal , 11–14.

Friedan, B. (1963). The feminine mystique . New York, NY: W. W. Norton.

Gottlieb, B. (1993). The family in the Western world from the black death to the industrial age . New York, NY: Oxford University Press.

Hull, K. E., Meier, A., & Ortyl, T. (2012). The changing landscape of love and marriage. In D. Hartmann & C. Uggen (Eds.), The contexts reader (2nd ed., pp. 56–63). New York, NY: W. W. Norton.

Luscombe, B. (2010, November 18). Who needs marriage? A changing institution. Time . Retrieved from http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,2032116,2032100.html .

Marcus, R. (2011, December 18). The marriage gap presents a real cost. The Washington Post . Retrieved from http://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/the-marriage-gap-presents-a-real-cost/2011/12/16/gIQAz24DzO_story.html?hpid=z3 .

Seccombe, K. (2012). Families and their social worlds (2nd ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson.

Simon, R. W. (2008). The joys of parenthood, reconsidered. Contexts, 7 (2), 40–45.

Smith, R. T. (1996). The matrifocal family: Power, pluralism, and politics . New York, NY: Routledge.

Starbuck, G. H. (2010). Families in context (2nd ed.). Boulder, CO: Paradigm.

• Adaptation of Social Problems: Continuity and Change. Provided by : University of Minnesota Libraries Publishing. Project : eLearning Support Initiative. License : CC BY-NC-SA: Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike

Nuclear Power Advantages and Disadvantages Essay

Introduction, nuclear power and fuel cost, global warming and nuclear power, article annotation, works cited.

Nuclear power is the energy generated by use of Uranium. The energy is produced via complex chemical processes in the nuclear power stations. Major chemical reactions that involve the splitting of atom’s nucleus take place in the reactors. This process is known as fission (Klug and Davies 31-32). The first nuclear power station was established in 1956 in Cumbira, England. Nuclear energy provides about sixteen percent of the total earth’s energy requirements (Cohen ch. 2).

Nuclear plants take years to be built.The cost of buying, and building the reactors is way too high (Klug and Davies 31-32). The kinds of security installations done around the power plant are of high technology which is extremely costly. Managers of nuclear power plants would prefer claiming their returns at the commencement of the plants activities which describes the high cost of fuel. The claim is thought to include cost of installations and time taken to construct the nuclear plants.

Other reasons that could lead to high cost of fuel namely, Security measures, installation factors and safety measures (Klug and Davies 36). The safety measure gadgets are very expensive and are made by great technological experts. Another form of safety measure is availability of machine spare parts. This ensures frequent renewal and upgrading of the plant’s mechanical equipment and this is again very costly.

The main reason for such security is due to the danger that could be caused by exposure to the products of radioactivity. The main equipment that needs close check up is the reactor. Its installation is quite costly hence appropriate renewal of worn out parts is an option that should not to be overlooked.

In addition to these costs, the costs of containing the waste matter is also quite high (Cohen ch.11). Although many people think that investing in nuclear power is a costly event, I do not feel so because it is a worthy venture and one of the cleanest sources of energy.

Though it is not renewable, its establishment and good management could provide a perfect source of energy to the world at large . Nuclear energy production requires low fuel and once the plant is built the cost variables are minor. The Cost of doubling fuel or uranium cost in nuclear plants will only increase fuel cost by 9%. For other sources like coal and gas, doubling fuel prices will increase the fuel prices by 31% and 66% respectively (Cohen ch.9).

Global warming is caused by the effect of green house gases. These gases are carbon dioxide, methane, vapor and ozone. They are produced by burning fossil fuel. When the gases accumulate in the atmosphere they serve as a mirror in reflecting heat energy back to earth. The accumulation of these gases leads to increased temperature on earth’s atmosphere resulting into global warming (Klug and Davies 31-37).

Nuclear power should not at any instance be regarded as one of the causative effects of global warming. This is because it consumes carbon dioxide which is of the green house gases during energy production. Carbon dioxide is a major gas among the green house gases. Hence nuclear energy has provided a solution point for its disposal.

Nuclear energy should therefore be referred to as a cleaner rather than destroyer. It has also boosted the economy by creating a market for sale of carbon dioxide gas. Industries producing this gas can as well trade with nuclear power plants. When serious action is taken in trading this gas from various outlets to various nuclear plants, then a solution would be made on how to regulate global warming using nuclear power generation.

In addition to nuclear power generation, use of renewable energy would also help in countering global warming. Due to the increased need for electricity, more nuclear power plants should be built. These will provide enough market for carbon dioxide waste from other manufacturing industries.

Nuclear energy should be adopted in place of fossil fuel. This is because fossil fuels position’s the earth at a higher risk of global warming. The only task that would justify the use of nuclear energy is when the purpose of Uranium metal is not shifted to bomb production or nuclear weapon production. New adoptions and policies on how to prevent global warming should be implemented.

Barkan, Steven. Nuclear Power and Protest Movements. Social problems journal Vol. 27.1(1979):11-36.Print.

Steve Barkan, a retired article writer basically points out people’s views that have been influenced by environmental degradation. The people have turned more attention to nuclear energy technology as a means of addressing the problem. Barkan’s article examines people’s opinion on nuclear energy. Those against the notion of nuclear energy as a source of energy believe that carbon dioxide emissions mostly emanate from nuclear power and not renewable energy.

These people’s arguments are based on the argument that high grade ores will get depleted hence low grade ores which produce carbon dioxide will be used with no installation of advanced reactor equipment.

In addition the opponents say that nuclear waste makes the environment susceptible to harm in the future, but they fail to point out that long lived constituents or radioactive elements give off small portion of radioactivity. The opponents also fail to mention any person that could have been harmed as a result of using fuel from power plants.

Another argument is that high cost of nuclear plant management has resulted to increased cost of fuel. In this case, they fail to note that the cost of electricity from nuclear energy is cheaper than most sources. Barkan also brings out the contrasting issue of terrorist attack whom the anti nuclear group argues that could cause melt down of ore. He responds by saying that high level of technological security would not allow access of such suicidal sabotage.

Nuclear energy is more affordable to produce than coal energy. It does not produce smoke or carbon dioxide. Instead, the carbon dioxide is used in the process to remove heat from the system. In this case carbon dioxide does not act as a byproduct rather it serves a positive purpose by being utilized. In addition its usage, nuclear energy produces less waste. It does contribute to neither environmental hazards nor green house effect like coal.

Nuclear energy is reliable and produces large amount of energy from less fuel. The negative effect lies on the risks that are associated with nuclear plants especially accidents and suicidal terrorists. These could cause extremely deadly effects and scars that can never be erased. Only good management and high technological security can assist in nullifying such fateful occurrences.

Nuclear power reactors should not be built in politically unstable regions. Political instability results in war and negative effects on the economy. For instance war prone areas are susceptible to attacks by terrorists which could result in detrimental effects. There is need for effective safety policy to be implemented that will address the following factors namely, climate change, security of power plants, safety, energy security and proliferation of nuclear technologies. This is because such proliferations would result in nuclear bomb.

Cohen, Benard. The Nuclear Energy Option . Plenum Press.1990.

Klug, Aaron & Davies, David. Nuclear Energy; The Future Climate. Norway: The Royal Society (1999):11-65.Print.

• Chicago (A-D)
• Chicago (N-B)

IvyPanda. (2019, November 10). Nuclear Power Advantages and Disadvantages. https://ivypanda.com/essays/nuclear-power/

"Nuclear Power Advantages and Disadvantages." IvyPanda , 10 Nov. 2019, ivypanda.com/essays/nuclear-power/.

IvyPanda . (2019) 'Nuclear Power Advantages and Disadvantages'. 10 November.

IvyPanda . 2019. "Nuclear Power Advantages and Disadvantages." November 10, 2019. https://ivypanda.com/essays/nuclear-power/.

1. IvyPanda . "Nuclear Power Advantages and Disadvantages." November 10, 2019. https://ivypanda.com/essays/nuclear-power/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "Nuclear Power Advantages and Disadvantages." November 10, 2019. https://ivypanda.com/essays/nuclear-power/.

• The Effect of Nuclear Energy on the Environment
• Remote Sensing in Australia's Uranium Exploration
• Can a Nuclear Reactor Explode Like an Atomic Bomb?
• Mitigation Plan for Energy Resources
• Solution to Environmental Problems
• Energy Use and Conservation
• Policy Paper on Oil Conservation
• United National Environment Programme (UNEP)

Nuclear Family: Essay on Advantages and Disadvantages of Nuclear Family

Leave a reply cancel reply.

You must be logged in to post a comment.

• Energy Saving Tips
• Solar Basics
• Home Improvement
• Solar Incentives

The Advantages and Disadvantages of Nuclear Energy: A Comprehensive Overview

The advantages and disadvantages of nuclear energy: a comprehensive overview. read on to discover the pros and cons of this energy source..

Daniel Moore

When you hear about nuclear power, what do you think of first? For many, it's probably those giant towers with steam coming out or people in yellow hazmat suits. These pictures can make you feel impressed but also a bit worried.

But there's more to nuclear energy than just those images. It's a topic that's interesting and makes people have strong opinions. So, let's take a closer look at the advantages and disadvantages of nuclear power and try to understand it better.

The Basics of Nuclear Power

Nuclear power plants rely on nuclear fission of Uranium-235 to generate heat. The uranium-235 is formed into ceramic pellets and sealed into metal tubes called fuel rods. These fuel rods are then assembled into bundles placed in the reactor core.

Inside the reactor core, the uranium atoms undergo a controlled chain reaction. This reaction is initiated by bombarding the uranium atoms with neutrons. When a uranium-235 atom absorbs a neutron, it becomes unstable. It splits into two smaller atoms, releasing tremendous heat energy.

This heat is used to boil water surrounding the fuel rods, creating steam. The steam is directed to drive turbines. These turbines are connected to generators, which convert the mechanical energy from the turbines into electrical energy. The electrical energy is transmitted through power lines to homes, businesses, and industries, which power various electrical devices and systems.

After the steam has passed through the turbines, it is condensed back into water using cooling systems. This water is then recycled back to the reactor core to continue the cycle. Nuclear power plants are equipped with sophisticated control and safety systems to regulate the nuclear reactions and ensure safe operation.

Advantages of Nuclear Power

While some believe nuclear power to be controversial, it brings some significant benefits.

Low Greenhouse Gas Emissions

Regarding environmental impact, nuclear power shines by emitting remarkably low levels of greenhouse gases compared to fossil fuels. Unlike coal or natural gas plants, nuclear power plants produce minimal carbon dioxide and other pollutants during electricity generation.

Nuclear energy is a crucial player in the fight against climate change, as it helps reduce harmful emissions that contribute to global warming.

High Energy Density

Nuclear energy packs a powerful punch with its high energy density, meaning it can produce much energy from a relatively small amount of fuel. This efficiency allows nuclear power plants to generate significant electricity using a fraction of the fuel needed by traditional fossil fuel plants.

As a result, nuclear energy reduces fuel consumption and helps minimize costs associated with fuel procurement and transportation.

Reliability and Stability

One of the standout features of nuclear power is its reliability and stability in providing a consistent electricity supply. Unlike renewable sources like wind or solar, which are subject to weather fluctuations, nuclear power plants can operate steadily regardless of external conditions.

This reliability ensures a stable and dependable electricity supply, contributing to grid stability and meeting the demands of consumers and industries alike.

Energy Security

Nuclear energy is crucial in enhancing energy security by reducing reliance on imported fuels. Unlike fossil fuels, which often need to be sourced from other countries, uranium—the primary fuel for nuclear power—is readily available domestically or from reliable trading partners.

By diversifying energy sources and reducing dependence on imports, nuclear power contributes to a more secure and stable energy supply, safeguarding against disruptions in fuel availability or geopolitical tensions.

Technological Innovation

The field of nuclear energy continues to drive technological advancements in reactor design and operation. Modern nuclear reactors incorporate cutting-edge features to enhance safety, efficiency, and waste management.

These innovations, from passive safety systems to advanced fuel cycles, make nuclear power plants safer, more efficient, and environmentally friendly.

Disadvantages of Nuclear Power

Nuclear power also has its share of concerns and limitations. Here are a few of them.

Nuclear Waste Management

Dealing with the radioactive waste produced by nuclear power plants is a significant challenge. This waste remains hazardous for thousands of years. It requires careful handling and storage to prevent environmental and human health harm. Finding suitable long-term storage solutions for this waste is complex, and ongoing debates about the best disposal methods exist.

Potential for Accidents

The possibility of nuclear accidents is a significant concern within the industry and among the public. Catastrophic events like the Chernobyl and Fukushima disasters serve as stark reminders of the devastating consequences that can occur when things go wrong at nuclear power plants. These incidents raise serious safety concerns and contribute to public fears about the risks associated with nuclear energy.

High Initial Costs

Building and operating nuclear power plants requires substantial upfront investment. The construction of these facilities is complex and expensive, often costing billions of dollars. Additionally, complying with strict regulatory requirements adds further costs and complexities to nuclear energy projects, making them financially challenging compared to other energy sources.

Limited Fuel Supply

Despite its potential as a low-carbon energy source, nuclear power relies on finite reserves of uranium fuel. There are concerns about the sustainability of these reserves in the long term and the potential for supply disruptions. Exploring alternative fuel sources, such as thorium, and developing advanced fuel cycle technologies are essential to ensure a reliable fuel supply for nuclear power plants in the future.

Nuclear Proliferation Risks

The spread of nuclear technology raises serious concerns about its potential for military use. Nuclear materials and technologies can be used to develop weapons of mass destruction, posing a threat to global security. Strong international safeguards and agreements are necessary to prevent the misuse of nuclear energy for military purposes and to ensure that nuclear technology is used for peaceful purposes only.

Final Thoughts

Reflecting on the advantages and disadvantages of nuclear power, it's evident that this energy source carries both promise and pitfalls. On one side, nuclear power presents notable benefits, such as its low greenhouse gas emissions, efficient energy production, and reliable supply. These strengths position it as a viable contender in our quest for sustainable energy solutions.

However, it's essential to acknowledge the flip side of the coin. Nuclear energy brings challenges, including managing radioactive waste, the potential for accidents, and substantial initial costs. These drawbacks underscore the need for careful consideration and thorough evaluation when adopting nuclear power.