Family Functions and Family Structures Vocabulary

A set of vocabulary flashcards defining family functions, structures, and sociological concepts related to family relationships.

Family

A group of persons related by blood, marriage, or adoption who usually live together under the same roof and care for and support one another socially, economically, and psychologically or emotionally.

Socialisation

A function of the family where younger members are trained and taught acceptable norms of society and appropriate behaviours for different social settings.

Reproduction / Procreation

One of the six functions of the family involving the biological production of offspring.

Financial / Economical Support

A function of the family where members, especially parents, budget and practice thrift to properly meet the needs of the family, which can be facilitated through technology like online banking.

Cultural Transmission

The passing on of traditions and customs from one generation to another within the family.

Informal Education

The role of the home or family as the first school where young members mimic the behaviours and words from older family members.

Nuclear Family

A family unit consisting of a mother, father, and their children living together under one roof.

Extended Family

A family network that includes parents and children along with other relatives such as aunts, uncles, grandparents, etc.

Single Parent Family

A household headed by a single parent (either a mother or father) who raises one or more children on their own.

Reorganised / Reconstituted / Blended Family

A family formed when two adults with children from previous relationships join together to form a new household.

Sibling Household

A home where brothers and sisters live together without parents present, often with an older sibling acting as the caregiver.

Generation Gap

A difference in values, beliefs, habits, and behaviour between older and younger generations.

Monogamy

The practice of being married to or in a relationship with only one person at a time.

Polygamy

The practice of having more than one spouse at the same time.

Polyandry

A specific form of polygamy where a woman has more than one husband at the same time.

Polygyny

A specific form of polygamy where a man has more than one wife at the same time.

Exogamy

The social rule or custom requiring a person to marry outside their own tribe, family, community, or social group.

Endogamy

The custom of marrying only within the limits of a local community, clan, or social group.

Patriarchal

A social system or family structure where the father or oldest male holds primary power and authority.

Matriarchal

A social system or family structure where the mother or oldest female holds primary power and authority.

Egalitarian

A family or social system where power, authority, and decision-making are shared equally between partners (such as husband and wife).

Matrilineal

A system of family descent and inheritance traced through the mother's side of the family.