The traditional family roles have been evolving over the years with more emphasis on the female gender. Men still hold their roles as the primary provider in most families, but this is changing with women’s active roles in making sure the family is comfortable financially. The changing gender roles have significant implications for families and society. The perspective on reproduction, education, and family stability has evolved from what it used to be 50 years ago. Family trends in 2030 will change with more push for women to take prominent roles in the family and society and for men to fight to retain their position as the family’s alpha.
The significant shifts in family structure in the developed world are common knowledge to most. More women are taking what used to be male-dominated professions such as engineering and truck driving. The birth rates are low to a level not sufficient to replenish populations in developed countries (Oláh, Kotowska, & Richter, 2018). Marriage and childbearing are delayed for career and education. Women are increasingly involved in providing for the family. These trends are occasioned by evolving responsibilities in the family. Men are more involved in caring for children and are no longer a preserve for women (Oláh et al., 2018). Notably, the family is currently dynamic with complex decision-making mechanisms which can alter the traditional male and female roles in a family.
The role of women in future societies will continue to evolve to bridge the equality gap with men. Currently, women are already taking active roles in politics and careers. Although Doblhammer & Gumà (2018) acknowledge that most men are paid higher than women and have more lucrative careers, these traits are bound to change by 2030. The number of housewives will decline to a minimum number, and women will have more authority in family matters because of increased income. More women will be career-focused, further reducing the number of children per family. The traditional marriage institution will not be as lucrative in the next three decades, and many women will consider other options that give them the freedom to pursue careers in different fields. Women’s voices will be heard both in the family and in future societies because of increased education levels and economic empowerment.
Both genders have experienced alterations in their roles and standing in society over the years. The change in men’s roles has not been as comprehensive as the role of women (Oláh et al., 2018). By the year 2030, men will be sharing equal financial responsibilities with women in the family. Due to extensive advocacy for women’s empowerment and little consideration for the boy child, men’s rights will take the forefront in most civil societies by 2030. More men will be complaining of domestic abuse and a more enlightened woman. However, men will still be dominant in most families and continue to be the leading provider. Men are egocentric, a character trait not easy to change.
The extended family will have minimal influence on any nuclear family decisions. Currently, every family is working hard to achieve their family dream with little time to get involved with a brother’s or a sister’s household. By 2030, most families will be living in urban centers where people embrace solitary lives. Technology will be advanced, but there will be little contact between extended families. The current trend in pursuing financial dreams will be exaggerated by 2030, significantly limiting contact between relatives.
Gender roles have changed over the decades, with women going through a complete metamorphosis in their traditional duties. The ancient role of giving birth and taking care of the family has evolved into a more educated and enlightened woman. Although not certain, more changes will continue to happen in future families, with women assuming more significant responsibilities. Men will still be dominant members of families and society as a whole. Solitary families will limit interactions between extended families.
References
Doblhammer, G., & Gumà, J. (2018). A demographic perspective on gender, family and health in Europe. Springer Nature.
Oláh, L. S., Kotowska, I. E., & Richter, R. (2018). The new roles of men and women and implications for families and societies. In A Demographic perspective on gender, family and health in Europe (pp. 41-64). Springer, Cham.