Ethnic Differences in Family Patterns

Question 1

Describe family patterns of black families

Answer 1

Black people have a higher proportion of lone-parent households. In 2012, over half of families with dependent children headed by a black person were lone-parent families

Question 2

Describe a reason for the family patterns of black families

Answer 2

• The high rate of female-headed, lone parent black families may be evidence of family disorganisation that can be traced back to slavery or the recent high rates of unemployment among black men.
• Under slavery, when couples were separated, children stayed with the mother so this may have established the family pattern that persists today
• Male unemployment have meant that black men are less able to provide, resulting in higher rates of desertion.

Question 3

Give evaluation for black family patterns

Answer 3

Mirza argues the higher rate of female-headed lone-parent black families isn’t the result of disorganisation, but shows the high value than black women place on independence

Question 4

Describe family patterns of Asian families

Answer 4

Bangladeshi, Pakistani and Indian households tend to be larger and may contain 3 generations, but most are nuclear.

Question 5

Describe a reason for the family patterns of Asian families

Answer 5

• Larger Asian households may reflect the value placed on the extended family in Asian cultures
• There are also practical considerations, such as assistance when migrating to Britain. e.g. Ballard found that the extended family ties provided a source of support among Asian migrants