Characteristics of the traditional Indian family: a)joint family syste...
Concept:
Tradition:
- The transmission of customs or beliefs from generation to generation, or the fact of being passed on in this way.
- A belief or custom handed down from one generation to another.
Explanation:
Characteristics of the traditional Indian family:
Universal:
- The family system is found in all societies.
- Family bonds and types of the family differ from one society to another. E.g.: In India, the family bonds are very strong.
Identity:
- It is a common practice for families to have a “nomenclature”. Every family is identified with a particular name.
Agency for Socialization:
- Socialization is a learning process that makes an individual an acceptable member of society.
- It is often remarked that “home” is the first school and the mother is the first teacher.
- A child learns norms from his family members such as cleanliness eating habits etc.
Cherishment of values:
- An individual acquires values from his family.
- Values can be defined as beliefs strongly held by individuals.
- Family teaches, certain values like respect for elders, helping the youngsters, Love, and affection for each other, etc.
Moulding the personality:
- Family plays a major role in Moulding the personality of an individual.
- Personality is reflected in the behaviour of individuals. E.g.: Over pampering of children may make them stubborn and egoistic.
- The relationship of the members of a family are socially sanctioned and are traditional.
- Living together with various members of a family is also one of its characteristics.
Values:
- Living peacefully and respecting each other's rights.
- Never compromise on integrity for prosperity.
- Maintain strong bonds with family members as well as relatives.
- Being hospitable to everyone who comes to your home, irrespective of his caste, creed, financial position, or status.
- Treating guests as God i.e. 'Atithi Devo Bhava'.
- Remembering and bowing to God first thing in the morning.
- Indulging in yoga and meditation.
- Always taking the advice of elders in case of any important decision.
- A family which lives together with all family members up to the second generation like grandparents, parents, uncle, aunts and their children is called a joint family.
The most aged man is the head of the family.
- Such a type of family arrangement is especially
common in India.
- The joint family is an
extension of the nuclear family
(parents and dependent children) - The size of the joint family is
large, consisting of an older man and his wife, his sons and unmarried daughters, his sons’ wives and children, and so forth.
- All the family members
love
each other and motivate
for any work. - Due to elders in the family,
children learn discipline at an early age.
- These types of families are usually
found in village areas where big families stay together.
- A patriarchal family is a type of family in which all
authority belongs to the paternal side.
- In this family, the
eldest male or the father is the head of the family.
- He exercises his authority over the members of the family.
- He presides over the religious rites of the household;
he is the guardian of the family goods.
- A patrilocal residence is structured by a rule that a man remains in his father's house
after reaching maturity and brings his wife to live with his family after marriage.
- Daughters, conversely,
move out of their natal household when they marry.
Thus, all of the above is the characteristics of a traditional Indian family.
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Characteristics of the traditional Indian family: a)joint family syste...
Joint Family System:
- In traditional Indian families, multiple generations live together under one roof, sharing resources and responsibilities.
- The joint family system fosters a sense of unity, support, and belonging among family members.
- Elderly family members are respected and revered, and their wisdom is valued in decision-making.
Patriarchal Family:
- In patriarchal families, the male head of the family holds authority and makes important decisions for the family.
- Gender roles are clearly defined, with women typically responsible for household chores and caregiving, while men are the primary breadwinners.
- Respect for elders and obedience to family hierarchy are emphasized in patriarchal family structures.
Priority of Values and Ideals:
- Traditional Indian families prioritize values such as respect, humility, honesty, and integrity.
- Family members are expected to uphold cultural traditions and customs, which are passed down through generations.
- Education, career success, and marriage are key milestones in the life of an individual, and the family plays a significant role in guiding and supporting these endeavors.
Summary:
Traditional Indian families are characterized by the joint family system, patriarchal family structure, and a strong emphasis on values and ideals. These families emphasize unity, respect for elders, and adherence to cultural traditions, making them a cornerstone of Indian society.