Family functions and types

Child Development definitions

1. Family and home

2. Family The family is the basic unit of society. It is a group of various ages who are usually related by birth, marriage or adoption.

3. Functions of the family One most important function is to provide for the needs of children. These needs include: Food and drink Care and training Shelter Secure environment in which they can develop into adults Warmth and clothing

4. Love and companionship Boundaries for behaviour Protection and support Encouragement with their education

5. Family ties The members of the family usually feel they have a special relationship with each other based on some or all of the following: Blood – knowing that they have the same ancestors Affection Duty – due to a traditional sense of obligation Shared experiences Common interests.

6. Family Structures in Australia

7. Nuclear families Consists of two parents and their biological children.

8. One-parent Families. Single or sole-parent family. Consists of one parent with a child or children.

9. Blended families Combination of biological children and stepchildren living with parents Formed when two sole-parents or a sole-parent and a partner unite

10. Extended families A large family group that include grandparents, parents, brothers, sisters, aunts, uncles and cousins. Live close together, sometimes in the same household. The traditional pattern of family life in many cultures.

11. Childless families Two adult partners with no children Formed by choice, or due to infertility, or the death of a child or children

12. Fostering/adopting Couple with children entrusted to their care but not their biological offspring. Foster families are temporary (days or years) Adoptive families are permanent

13. Same-sex couples Two adult partners of the same sex, with or without children, who share an interpersonal relationship and resources.