Growing family diversity refers to the increasing range of family types recognized in society in addition to the traditional nuclear family. According to Cohen (2020), there are different responses to the changing trends with regard to the family structure. As shown in Figure 13.5, young people are more tolerant of diverse families than the older generation (Cohen, 2020). Another pattern I see presents the connection between one’s attitude toward diversity and religiosity. About 55% of people attending religious services more than once a week find the family change bad (Cohen, 2020). Similarly, republicans tend to view this phenomenon as an adverse outcome compared to democrats and independents. In general, individuals under 34, non-religious people, as well as independents, are less likely to have a negative attitude towards family diversity. Another noteworthy trend indicates that about the same percentage of people in each group reported seeing no difference made by the growing diversity.
The general trend shown in Figure 13.5 indicates that the younger generation is more accepting of family diversity than older people. Namely, people under 34 are more likely to consider the change a good thing or a phenomenon that makes no difference (Cohen, 2020). Therefore, the increasing acceptance of family diversity is inevitable because future generations will be raised by individuals with more tolerant and accepting views. As a result, the idea of diversity and freedom of choice will become more widespread in society.
There are several issues associated with the increase of family diversity that will likely be observed 20 years from today. In particular, single-person households have already become more widespread and normalized than a few decades ago. The trend will likely continue since more people seek fulfilling relationships instead of rushing into marriage and creating a nuclear family. The concept of self-identity will be central for many people, and the desired family relationships will include forming a mutually beneficial and fulfilling union. Furthermore, the change of tradition, secularization, and feminism will continue to contribute to the shift in established roles and functions within a family. Therefore, there will be even more freedom and choices associated with relationships.
Response to the Student Post
Upon reading this post, I have realized that we share similar views on the trends shown in Figure 13.5. I have also noticed an equal ratio between people who see no difference in family change. Furthermore, I agree with your observation about young and older adults and how they accept diverse families. It seems that this tendency can be seen in the acceptance of any kind of diversity by different generations. Similarly, religious people and republicans often share traditional values which do not support change or instability. Young people increasingly seek freedom and self-identity in relationships that are not associated with stability. Many individuals marry later and build families based on such principles as shared responsibilities, equality, and more liberty.
Therefore, I think you have made an interesting point about the changing role of women. Indeed, there is a significant shift from traditional nuclear families with clear gender roles, when the husband provides for the family and the wife completes most household duties. More family structures exist now, where the couple shares responsibilities fairly or where the woman is responsible for financial security in the household. Many people step away from stereotypical attitudes and beliefs and embrace societal change. Therefore, I agree that increased family diversity is likely to be more acceptable in the future.
Reference
Cohen, P. N. (2020). The family: Diversity, inequality, and social change (3rd ed.). W. W. Norton.