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Part Five Dimensions of Families
An advantage of the extended family is the interaction between
family members of all age groups. Older adults are likely to have
an honored position in the family. Children can learn to respect and
appreciate them. Older adults, in turn, offer experience that can be
helpful in raising children.
In some cases, extended families control the family activities. For
instance, older family members may choose marriage partners and
careers for the children. In some other families, some activities are
controlled, but marriage and career choices are made independently.
Many extended families are formed for a short period of time. For
instance, a family member may marry and the couple will live with a
parental family until they can afford a separate living space. A divorced
family member with children may temporarily move back into a
parental home. Other examples are young adults who fi nd they cannot
afford to live on their own. They may have to live with their parents
while establishing their careers.
Sometimes the family must focus on meeting the needs of older
family members. A grandparent may move in with an adult child’s
family, 14-6. This may be temporary or it may become permanent,
depending on the health of the older family member.
14-6
In this extended family, three generations live together, sharing a home
and daily activities.