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The Family
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| Submitted: Thu Jul 11 2002
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The Family The family is regarded by many sociologists as the cornerstone of society. It is frequently described as the basic unit of social organization. The smallest family unit is known as the nuclear family, it consists of a husband and wife and their siblings, all other units who are related to the nuclear family are called the extended family. This definition of the family is a typical version, often referred to as the ideal type or "cereal packet" family. Throughout society the structure of the family may vary. In general the family is an institution common to every known society and as such performs important functions for its members and for society as a whole. There are many different sociological perspectives in relation to the family regarding its structure and what functions it performs for both the individual and society at large. Some sociologists see the family as a positive...
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