Ethnic differences in family patterns

Describe UK black Caribbean and African family structures

• Half of families with dependents were black lone parent families

  • These are typically headed by single mothers

What might explain black family patterns

Children staying with the mother is an idea that links back to slavery. Male unemployment has led to less being provided, increasing risk of divorce due to desertion or marital breakdown

What does Mirza believe about black family patterns

Lone parent families amongst black is due to high value black women place on independence

What does Reyonlds believe about black family patterns

Statistics are misleading, not representing loving, cohabiting relationships

What are typical features of South Asian families

• Larger households of different age groups

Why do South Asian families have three generations under a roof

Reflects traditional Asian values

Shows the need for assistance when migrating to Britain

Larger proportion is in child bearing age than rest of genpop

What does Ballard argue regarding Asian migration

Extended family ties provided important support

Has the Asian family structure changed over time

Yes, most Asian families now live in nuclear families with relative nearby. Religious kinship networks acted as a support system