The meaning of “family” has been changing over the last 50 years. Factors that have contributed to the change in family have been both parents having to work, an increase in the divorce rate, an increase in the number of blended families, and an increase in single parent families.
A significant number of people believe that the changing make-up of the family unit has had a negative impact on families. I would caution against assuming the worst. For many families divorce has literally been a life-saver in domestic violence situations. There are also numerous examples of children who identify a step-parent as “mom” or “dad”, not my “step-mom” or “step-dad” due to the positive influence she or he has had on the child’s life.
The family unit, no matter what size, shape, or form it comes in, isn’t what is relevant. What is relevant is what happens inside the family unit. Families are the main socializing agent for children. Families are where values, morals, and ethics are learned. Families should be where children feel safe, protected, and loved.
Take a minute to think about your family, both your family of origin and your current family. Think about other families you know. What characteristics and qualities make these families good? What characteristics and qualities make them bad? What values and beliefs are embraced in your family? I’d like to hear some of your responses.