FACTORS RESPONSIBLE FOR CHANGES IN THE FAMILY SYSTEM IN MODERN INDIA

Change is an unchangeable law of nature. Family is not an exception to this universal law. Besides, the family also responds to the changes in society. With the change of time, several changes are also introduced in the structure and functions of the family. However, the following changes are found in the functions of the family.

Changes in the functions of Family in Modern times:

  1. Changes in the functions of sexual regulation: 

As a family, one of the most essential functions of a family is the satisfaction of sex. Although some changes are marked in the functions of the family. As a result, pre-marital and extra-marital relations are increasing. The number of prostitution centres, dance bars, etc., is also increasing. Marriages are made in temples and in court many times without parental permission. The modern family fails to exercise its traditional control in regulating the sexual behaviour of its members.

  1. The reproductive function of family has suffered: 

In traditional society, reproductive functions were one of the most important essential functions of the family. But with the change of time, this function of family is also affected to a certain extent. At present, a child is born in hospitals and in clinics. With the development of science and technology, particularly genetic engineering, test tube babies are born, which greatly affects the reproductive functions of the family. Births of a greater number of children are discouraged.

  1. Parental and educational functions of family have been shifted to external agencies: 

Traditional family performs several educational functions for their members. It was the first school for children. He learns his primary education and some occupational education from his family. But in present-day, the role of the family in education has declined a lot. Schools, colleges, Universities, and technical institutions take the place of family, and teachers become substitutes for parents. Besides, it is not possible to acquire modern education from family. Hence a lot of change occurs in the educative functions of the family.

  1. Protective functions of family have declined: 

In ancient times family used to protect its members against all odds. The family's primary duty is to provide security and protection to the old, aged, invalid diseased, handicapped, etc. But now a day’s, these important functions of the family have been taken over by other specialized agencies such as hospitals, clinics, old age homes, etc. Hence a lot of change occurred in the protective functions of the family.

  1. Economic functions of family have been distributed: 

In ancient times family was the main centre of production, consumption, and distribution. It produces almost everything as per the need of its members. But at present family remain only a consumption unit than a centre of production. The factory or industrial units perform most of their economic functions. Industry fulfills the needs of a family. Family members now prefer to work in offices and industries than in agriculture. As a result, the economic importance of the family declined manifold.

  1. Decrease in religious activities: 

In traditional society, the family was the centre of worship and religious activities. But in modern times, these religious functions of the family have also undergone a great change. People are becoming secular in their attitude and outlook, and secularism has become the family ideal. Religious practices and festivals lost their traditional importance. As a result, a great change is marked in the religious functions of the family.

  1. Socialization functions of family are gaining increased attention: 

In ancient times family plays a vital role in the child's socialization process. A human child becomes a human being living in direct and personal care of family members. As a result, the child attains a full-fledged personality. But a lot of change occurs in the socialization functions of the family. In modern times family plays a very less role in socializing its children. Some of the socialization functions of the family are now being performed by many other specialized agencies such as schools, colleges, etc.

No doubt changes have occurred in all the family functions, but it is not completely devoid of these functions. The family continues to perform these functions but with some modifications and is persisting as one of the most important social institutions.

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