Now a day there have been changes in the family system in terms of size, role relationships and power distribution in family. The change is in the form of a shift from consanguine to conjugal family. I However, it is multi-dimensional in nature. It encompasses changes in structure, function and interaction. Size of families is growing smaller.
Large joint families are becoming extended (either or both the grand parents staying with the family), and joint families are getting nuclear. It has an impact on family composition, co-residence, and ownership of property. There is a decline in social roles in families with socialisation roles being shared by other agencies such as peer groups, schools and media.
There are changes in the internal structure of families too. The relationships among the family members have also changed with changes in family obligations, decision-making power, socialisation practices and child-rearing practices. The central authority of the eldest male is weakening and there is a reworking of power and authority among family members.
The wife now has a greater power in affairs of her home and in decision-making. Parental authority over children has reduced. Children enjoy more freedom to choose their lives, and are consulted in decision-making process. The change is vivid in urban areas. There are simultaneous changes in the traditional value system too.
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Values like respect for the old and the elderly, care and concern for the weak and the needy, co-operation, service etc, are being replaced by modern values of individual freedom, personal lives, non-interference and so on.