Sociology-Module 2–Family - Topic 4: Changing Caribbean Kinship Patterns

Impact of slavery on Caribbean kinship patterns?

Impact of Slavery: Slavery disrupted family ties, contributed to matrifocal tendencies due to male absence and sale, and forced families to adapt.

Impact of indentureship on Caribbean kinship patterns?

Impact of Indentureship: Indentureship reinforced patriarchal family structures in Indo-Caribbean communities and maintained strong kinship networks.

Impact of migration on Caribbean kinship patterns?

Impact of Migration: Migration for work contributes to single-parent and female-headed households and creates transnational families.

How do marriage and divorce affect Caribbean kinship patterns?

Rates of Marriage and Divorce: Increasing divorce rates and later marriage ages reflect changing gender roles and increased female independence.

How have men and fatherhood changed in Caribbean families?

Men and Fatherhood: Changing expectations mean some men struggle with economic provision, leading to absent fatherhood, while others are more involved in childcare.

What are female-headed households in the Caribbean?

Female-Headed Households: These households are common in the Caribbean and are often linked to economic necessity and cultural factors.

What are single-parent households in the Caribbean?

Single-Parent Households: These households are increasing in the Caribbean due to divorce, separation, migration, or non-marriage.

What does the term family “breakdown” mean in Caribbean sociology?

Family “Breakdown”: This is a contested term that often reflects a shift away from the traditional nuclear family, rather than a complete loss of family support.