changes affecting modern family structures Flashcards
Marital breakdown
Since the introduction of the Family Law (Divorce) Act 1996, the stigma surrounding marital breakdown has reduced in Ireland. A more liberal and secular society has also made it more socially acceptable to separate or divorce if a couple no longer wishes to remain together.
Effects
There has been an increase in the number of one-parent and blended families.
Changing role of women
More women are advancing to third-level education, due to increased educational opportunities. This has improved their career prospects, causing many women to shift roles from working in the home to working outside the home.
Effects on modern family structure
• Families tend to be smaller, as women are having fewer children because they have the opportunity to establish careers.
• In some families, role reversal has occurred, with fathers staying at home to mind children, as mothers have higher-paid occupations.
• In dual-income households, symmetrical roles are common, with household tasks shared equally between partners, as they are both working.
Same-sex marriage and adoption
The introduction of the Children and Family Relationships Act
2015 enabled same-sex couples to jointly adopt children.
Previously, only one person could become the legal adoptive parent. This was followed by the Marriage Act 2015, which legalised same-sex marriage in Ireland, allowing two people of the same sex to marry and benefit from the same status under the Constitution as couples of the opposite sex. The introduction of these acts has resulted in a more inclusive and tolerant society in Ireland, willing to acknowledge the greater variety of family forms.
Effects on modern family structure
• Children may now legally have two adoptive parents of the
same sex.
• Families may now legally be headed by married couples of the same sex.
High cost of living
An increase in the cost of living has left Ireland in the top ten most expensive countries in the world to reside, therefore many families must budget carefully to meet needs, e.g. rent, food and childcare. After these needs have been met, there is often little money left for families, especially if on a low income.
Effects on modern family structure
• The number of dual-income families has increased, as both parents need to work to earn sufficient income to meet needs.
• Families are having fewer children due to the high cost of childcare.
• Stress and worry surrounding finances within the family are increased. In severe cases this may lead to marital breakdown.
The economy
When the Irish economy was in recession, unemployment rates increased to a high of 15% in 2012, which put huge financial strain on families. In recent times, the Irish economy is in recovery and unemployment rates have begun to steadily drop (5.3% in September 2019). This has allowed many unemployed people to re-enter the workplace and move away from social welfare payments.
Effects on modern family structure
• There is an increase in dual-income families due to greater access to employment.
• There is a reduced number of families reliant on social welfare payments, e.g. Jobseeker’s Benefit, to meet basic needs
State benefits
The state provides social welfare payments (e.q. Jobseeker’s Allowance or Supplementary Welfare Allowance) to unemployed families struggling to pay for basic needs. One-parent families can obtain the One-Parent Family Payment.
Effects on modern family structure
• Enables one-parent or unemployed families to provide for their children’s basic needs.
• Reduces stress and worry surrounding finances among one-parent families and unemployed families, enhancing stability.
Automated household appliances
The increased availability of automated household appliances, e.g. washing machines and dishwashers, allow housework to be completed quicker and more efficiently.
Effects on modern family structure
Increases leisure time for families, as the amount of time and effort spent cleaning and maintaining the home is reduced.
Communication
Developments in communication technologies (e.g. FaceTime, Skype and WhatsApp) have enabled families to have greater communication with family or friends all over the world. People can share conversations, messages, images or videos instantly.
Effects on modern family structure
Closer bonds and relationships can form between family members, as it is easier for people to keep in contact with their extended family.
Entertainment
Developments in entertainment technology (e.g. smart televisions, online streaming services such as Netflix, and gaming apps) have greatly influenced pastimes participated in by families.
Effects on modern family structure
• Familial bonds are affected, as families spend less time interacting with one another.
• There is a reduction in participation in physically active pastimes, which increases the risk of obesity.
