The British Family

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The British Family In Britain today they are many different types of families, and these all have different social structures. Even through there are many different variations of these groups, family structures normally come in these groups: - nuclear families, reconstituted families, extended families and a lone parent families. The nuclear family is where "parents and children live in an independent unit separately from other relatives."(Penny Tassoni, et al, 2002). Advantages - family is more likely to be better economically. Closer to family members Parents have more time to spend with their children Disadvantages - if parents spilt up the family will experience considerable disruption They have to plan family centred activities to socialise Only have a small support network The reconstituted family is where "parents with children form previous relationships live together". (Penny Tassoni, et al, 2002). Advantages - good levels of support Child care support More role models Disadvantages - may bring tension for some individuals The extended family is where "parents, children, grandparents, uncles and aunts live together in a supported unit" (Penny Tassoni, et al, 2002). Advantages - a big supported network Disadvantages - limits personal independence of some family members Not a great deal of personal space The lone parent family "a single parent, mother or father, living alone with a child." (Penny Tassoni, et al, 2002). Advantages - state help with child care One parent decides how the child is brought up rules, religion ect Disadvantages - can lead to finan... ... middle of paper ... ... child abuse is put into four groups physical abuse, emotional abuse, sexual abuse, and neglect. The state intervenes by monitoring each case by visiting the family home or to have the parents to come to the local social services department on a regular bias. Family centre are where parent can go to have their parenting skills assessed and given help to develop their skills and receive counselling. Referred to specialist agencies to help understand the extent and causes of any abuse. The child may be put on the child protection where social services feel there is need for close scrutiny of a family and a formal record for a child condition. Children at risk of child abuse can be taken in to care, by parents consent or by a care order and the child will be placed in a foster family or in a residential children's home.

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