Published By: Orna Ghosh

Joint family v/s nuclear family. Which would you prefer?

The family is like the big banyan tree that protects us from every situation. 

Family is the only relationship which stays with us since the day we were born. We know that the five fingers in a hand are different; similarly, all family members have distinct personalities, characters or lifestyles. This vital essence of our life is of two types- joint family and the nuclear family. Today, one of the debatable topics is the benefit of living in either family.

In a joint family, related members in the family live together under the same roof; but a nuclear family consists of parents and children only. Many believe that a small family is a happy family. However, as per the study reports, a joint family provides better emotional stability. Let us look into the comparison chart of both family types.

Nuclear Family

Advantages

Growing up in a nuclear family, we get privacy. We learn the importance of independent well-being and develops a sense of responsibility.

In a nuclear family, it gets easier to save for children’s future education and after-retirement life.

Since there are not many members in a nuclear family, there are very few moments of conflict between them.

Disadvantages

Children feel isolated growing up in a nuclear family, especially in the case of a single child.

Sometimes it becomes difficult to raise a child alone; especially, if both the parents go out to work. Therefore, they either leave the child at a day-care centre or with the housekeeper. As a result, they feel a lack of connection with their family members.

Joint Family

Advantages

Living in a joint family, we learn the value of adjustment and sharing. Similarly, we take care of each other.

Under the guidance of grandparents and other family members, children stay connected to the roots of family culture and traditions. Moreover, their stories and tales are nothing less than comic book stories.

Everybody in the joint family plays a crucial role by providing support to us in various challenging situations.

Disadvantages

Growing up in a joint family, you cannot enjoy the essence of privacy.

As per the study reports, the conflict between the members in the joint family is higher than in others. It may be related to work division, financial contribution or lack of personal space.

These are some points of comparison between two types of family. Now, you decide what family type would you prefer.