The extended family today

The extended family today

1. Parsons believed it was dominant in pre-industrial society but replaced by nuclear family in modern society

2. 'All but extinct'

   • Charles' study
   • Only evident in Bangladeshi community

3. Wilmott argues it exists as a 'dispersed extended family'

   • Relatives are geographically separate but continue to provide support

4. Chamberlain's study of Caribbean families found support despite geographical dispersion

   • 'Multiple nuclear families' with close and frequent contact between all family members
   • Survives because it performs iimportant functions for its members

5. Support from mothers to daughters remains high

6. Sharp decline in sibling contact and support

7. People felt that help given should be returned to avoid any feelings of indebtedness

8. Extended family still provides emotional and practical support