Post Modernism and the Nuclear family

• Robert Chester states there has been some increase in family diversity, but that it isn't a bad thing.

  The only important change is a more the change from a conventional nuclear family to the neo-conventional family, as most people aren't choosing alternatives to the nuclear family on a long-term basis. For instance, many people cohabit before committing to marriage in order to see if they're compatible.
• The Rapoports argue that family diversity is of central importance to our understanding of the family today and that it is a positive response to changing needs.
• Outline the five types of family diversity according to the Rapoports.

  1. Organised - Family might organise itself in terms of the roles that people perform.
  2. Cultural - Families differ in terms of beliefs and values. E.g. between different ethnic groups, some place greater importance on gender roles.
  3. Class - Much writing about family only considers it from a middle class perspective, but structures may differ between classes.