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'Fewer than one in five households in Dublin City are now made up of the traditional family of husband, wife and children.' (CSO Census of Population, 2006) (a) Analyse the reasons for the decline of the traditional family in Irish society - Leaving Cert Home Economics - Question 5 - 2008
Question 5
'Fewer than one in five households in Dublin City are now made up of the traditional family of husband, wife and children.' (CSO Census of Population, 2006) (a)... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:'Fewer than one in five households in Dublin City are now made up of the traditional family of husband, wife and children.' (CSO Census of Population, 2006) (a) Analyse the reasons for the decline of the traditional family in Irish society - Leaving Cert Home Economics - Question 5 - 2008
Step 1
Analyse the reasons for the decline of the traditional family in Irish society.
Answer
The decline of the traditional family structure in Irish society can be attributed to several key factors:
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Separation and Divorce: There has been a significant increase in the rates of separation and divorce, leading to more single-parent households.
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Changing Attitudes Towards Marriage: There is a noticeable shift in societal attitudes toward marriage, with many individuals questioning its relevance or choosing to cohabit instead.
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Higher Decline in Marriage Rates: The rates of marriage have seen a decline due to various reasons, including younger generations' preference for delayed marriage or remaining single.
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Changing Gender Roles: As gender roles have evolved, there is now a greater expectation for both partners to contribute to the household, impacting traditional family dynamics.
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Increased Availability of Contraception: With easier access to contraception, family planning has become more prevalent, allowing couples to have fewer children or choose not to have them.
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Urbanization: Urbanization has led to increased living costs, causing individuals to prioritize financial stability over starting a traditional family.
Step 2
Describe how changing roles within the family have impacted on individuals and/or society.
Answer
The changing roles within the family have several notable effects on individuals and society at large:
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Evolving Gender Roles: Parents, including both mothers and fathers, are increasingly sharing domestic responsibilities and child-rearing tasks, promoting greater equality within the family.
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Impact on Parenting Styles: There has been a shift towards more egalitarian parenting styles, where responsibilities are shared, thus fostering cooperation and collaboration between partners.
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Influence on Work: With more women engaging in the workforce, the traditional breadwinner model has changed, leading to dual-income households and a redefinition of family roles.
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Role of Grandparents: Grandparents often play a more active role in caregiving, contributing to the family structure and support system.
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Societal Views on Family: There is a broader acceptance of diverse family structures, including single-parent families and blended families, leading to a more inclusive societal perspective.
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Challenges of Role Overload: Amid these changes, individuals may experience role overload, where balancing work, home, and parental expectations create stress.
Step 3
Describe one strategy for resolving conflict within the family.
Answer
One effective strategy for resolving conflict within the family is to promote open communication. This involves:
- Encouraging Honesty: Family members should feel safe expressing their thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment.
- Active Listening: It is essential for everyone to practice active listening, where each member pays attention to the perspectives of others, promoting empathy.
- Seeking Compromise: Striving to reach a compromise can help families find common ground and work towards a solution that respects everyone's needs.
- Consider Professional Help: If conflicts persist, engaging a third-party counselor can provide impartial advice and facilitate discussions.