THE FAMILY: AN INTEGRAL UNIT OF SOCIETY

Having children is one of the ultimate goals of getting married. The married couple must decide if and when they want to have children and the size of the family that they can responsibly raise.

FAMILY ROLES

Each family member needs to play his or her role for a better family

relationship.Traditionally, the father, being the head of the

family, has to work and provide for all the needs of the family.

The mother, on the other hand, has the outmost responsibility to manage, direct, and hold the family members together. It is also her duty to administer the necessary disciplinary actions when needed

IMPORTANCE OF HAVING SMALL FAMILY

It is important to have a small family for the following reasons:

The basic needs of children like food, clothing, and shelter as well as education, can be met by parents if they have fewer children.

Each of the children can get the same amount of attention, love and care. Therefore, neglect can be avoided.

Parents can have more time to spare for themselves.

The family can have more time for bonding activities as well as little luxury because money can be saved.

Families can afford to look for a better place which is far from danger.

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DISADVANTAGES OF HAVING A LARGE FAMILY

Some parents always reason out, “the more the merrier.” Such parents may not be aware that a large family poses problems, such as

the following: Children are generally disadvantaged in terms of

physical, mental, and social development. There are fewer opportunities for each child to be given equal care, attention, education, and guidance. Some of them might be neglected because more of the parent’s time will be given to the younger children.

The family members have to settle for smaller portions of food and other material things.

Mothers who get pregnant either too young (younger than 20) or too old (older than 35) are prone to complications which endanger both the mother and the child.

RESPONSIBILITIES OF PARENTS TO THEIR CHILDREN

Provide physical careInculcate disciplineDevelop social competenceEncourage learningProvide opportunities for education and self-development

Inculcate values

RESPONSIBILITIES OF CHILDREN towards their

parents

With many responsibilities and obligations parents have for their children, the children, in turn, have responsibilities and roles to play in the family. They need to study hard, spend their allowance wisely, and help in the house as much as they can.

Becoming successful and responsible adults is more than enough payment for all the sacrifices their parents are making on them.

Most of all, love, respect, and honor are the best things that children can give to their parents.

QUESTIONS

1. A family member whose duty is to administer the necessary disciplinary actions when needed.

a. Mother

b. Father

c. Child

d. Grandparent

2. Traditionally, the ___________ has to work and provide for all the needs of the family.

a. Mother

b. Father

c. Child

d. Grandparent