Not every family is a happy family. What is most important is the atmosphere in a family. If there is a congenial atmosphere in a family, it can be a virtue. However, if there is tension and conflict between the members of a family and if they are constantly playing games and trying to score over each other, all the advantages of a family are lost.
In India, people learn the essential themes of cultural life within the bosom of a family. The joint family is an ancient Indian institution, but it has undergone some change in the late twentieth century. Although several generations living together is the ideal, actual living arrangements vary widely depending on region, social status, and economic circumstance.
In every activity, there is an assumption that social ties can help a person and that their absence can bring failure. Social interaction is regarded as being of the highest priority in Indian families, and social bonds are expected to be long lasting. All social interaction involves constant attention to hierarchy, respect, honor, the feelings of others, rights and obligations, hospitality, and gifts of food, clothing, and other desirable items. Finely tuned rules of etiquette help facilitate each individual's many social relationships.
The needs and expectations of the younger generation are constantly changing. In families, members of the older generation, make an attempt to bridge the generation gap. They must try to update their knowledge about the lifestyle of the younger generation and not constantly pass judgement on their activities. They must realize that times change and the way things were done in their time may not work any more. Everything cannot be seen in black and white. If they insist on being rigid, they will just distance themselves from their children and grandchildren. There will be a breakdown in communication and the elders will find that they are slowly becoming marginalized in the family. There should be respect and concern for each other's feelings rather than a constant battle for supremacy and authority.
A harmonious family set-up can be a boon. It can provide a wonderful support system emotionally and financially. In the ideal sense, one can share both one's triumphs and failures. The joint family is ideal for the woman who wants to work as well as have a family. Working women have someone to leave their children with when they are away at work, rather than leaving their children in a creche or with servants. They can be assured that their children are being looked after by people who care for them almost as much as they do themselves.
