Functional Changes

FUNCTIONAL CHANGES

Change is an unchangeable law of nature. Family is not an exception to this universal law. Besides, family also responds to the changes in society. With the change of time, a number of changes are also introduced both in the structure and functions of family. However, 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 was one of the most essential functions of family. But with the change of time, this function of family is also affected to a certain extent. At present, a child is born in hospitals and in 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 its members. It was the first school for children. He learned his primary education and some occupational education from his family. But in present day the role of family in education has declined a lot. Schools, Colleges, Universities and technical institutions take the place of family and teachers became substitute to 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 family used to protect its members against all odds. It is the primary duty of family to provide security and protection to old, aged, invalid diseased, handicapped, etc. But now a days these important function of family has been taken over by other specialized agencies such as hospitals, clinics, old age homes etc. Hence a lot of change occurred in the protective functions of 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 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 became 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 family plays a vital role in the child's socialization process. Human child becomes a human being living in direct and personal care of family members. As a result, the child attains a full-fledged personality. But a lot of change occurs in the socialization functions of family. In modern times family plays a minimal role in socializing its children. Some of the socialization functions of family now are being performed by many other specialized agencies such as schools, colleges, etc.

No doubt changes have occurred in all the functions of family, but it is not completely devoid of these functions. Family continues to perform these functions but with some modifications and is persisting as one of the most important social institutions.