FUNCTIONAL CHANGES
Change is an unchangeable law of nature. Family is not an exception to this universal law. Besides, family also responds to changes in society. With the passage of time, a number of changes are introduced both in the structure and functions of family. However, the following changes are found in the functions of family.
Changes in the functions of Family in Modern times:
1. The reproductive function of family has suffered:
In traditional society, reproductive functions were one of the most essential functions of family. However, with time, the function of the family has also been affected to a certain extent. At present, a child is born in hospitals and clinics. With the development of science and technology, particularly with the development of genetic engineering, test tube babies are born, which greatly affects the reproductive functions of family. Births of more number of children are discouraged.
2. Parental and educational functions of family have been shifted to external agencies:
Traditional families performed a number of educational functions for their members. It was the first school for children. He learned his primary education and some occupational education from his family. But in the present day, the role of family in education has declined a lot. Schools, Colleges, Universities and technical institutions take the place of families, and teachers become substitutes for parents. Besides, it is not possible to acquire modern education from family. Hence, a lot of change occurs in the educative functions of family.
3. Protective functions of family have declined:
In ancient times, families used to protect their members against all odds. It is the primary duty of the family to provide security and protection to the elderly, disabled, and handicapped. But nowadays, these important functions of the family have been taken over by other specialized agencies such as hospitals, clinics, old age homes, etc. Hence, a lot of change has occurred in the protective functions of the family.
4. Economic functions of family have been distributed:
In ancient times, family was the main centre of production, consumption and distribution. It produces almost everything as per the need of its members. But at present, family remains only a consumption unit rather than a centre of production. The factory or industrial units perform most of its economic functions. Industry fulfills the needs of family. Family members now prefer to work in offices, and industries than to work in agriculture sector. As a result, economic importance of family declined manifold.
5. Decrease in religious activities:
In traditional society, family was the centre of worship and religious activities. But in modern times, the religious functions of family have also undergone a great change. People are becoming secular in their attitudes and outlook, and secularism has become the ideal of family. Religious practices and festivals have lost their traditional importance. As a result, a great change is marked in the religious functions of family.
6. Socialization functions of family are gaining increased attention:
In ancient times, the family played a vital role in the child's socialization process. The human child becomes a human being living in the direct and personal care of family members. As a result, the child attains a full-fledged personality. But a lot has changed in the socialization functions of the family. In modern times, the family plays a minimal role in socializing its children. Some of the family's socialization functions are now being performed by many other specialized agencies such as schools, colleges, etc.
Although changes have undoubtedly occurred in all the functions of the family, they are not completely devoid of these functions. The family continues to perform these functions, but with some modifications, and is persisting as one of the most important social institutions.
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