In the last five decades, there has been a dramatic change in the structure of many families. Gone are the days when nuclear families were the only dominant kind in our country. Today, different family types have sprung up and are much more accepted. There are children from mixed families and those raised by single mothers in the same society. Broadly, researchers have identified seven common kinds of family structures.

Nuclear family
A nuclear family is also called a family of procreation or conjugal family. It is a traditional or elementary structure with two parents (common law or typically married) and their children.

Single-parent family
As is apparent, one parent raises one or more kids in a single-parent family. The unit may comprise a single father with his kids, a single mother with her children, or a single person with kids.

Blended family
Also known as stepfamilies, blended families comprise two halves of a nuclear family living together and blending into one. So, two people may leave their previous families and start a new one. It may comprise a single person who marries another individual with a child/children. Or two people with their respective kids. In the past few years, blended families have surged because of the country’s high divorce rate. In most blended families, parents co-parent the kids. They either live with the kids or take turns to spend time with them.

Extended family
In this structure, you will see parents, children, grandparents, and uncles and aunts (with their kids) all living together under one roof. There are umpteen reasons for families to live together in this manner. Typically, such structures shape up when grandparents get older and move in with their children and grandkids. Alternatively, when the spouse (wife or husband) dies, the grandparent moves in with their adult children and grandchildren to overcome their loneliness and help them.

Childless family
These families are naturally different from other structures because they do not involve kids. In this structure, parents live without a child. They may either choose not to have a child or might be unable to bear one. Studies suggest that these families are better off financially than those with children. Usually, female athletes decide not to have children because of their careers. At times, traveling businesswomen or men also do not wish to be caught up with kids. These days, couples desiring a family tend to replace children with pets.

Grandparent family
Sometimes, grandparents may raise their grandchildren for several reasons. Studies suggest that one in 14 children are raised by their grandparents. In such situations, the parents are not a part of the kid’s life. It may be because of multiple reasons, including a parent’s death or abandonment. At times, they may be incapable as parents due to an illness. To raise their grandkids, grandparents often go back to work or seek additional sources of income.

Family by choice
These are the most newly recognized structures in industrial countries like ours. The term “family by choice” was popularized to describe a structure not recognized by the legal system. It may comprise live-in partners, adopted children, close friends, and people of the same family tree. Usually, families and unmarried people who move away from the consanguine family practice this living format.

Regardless of the type, each has its share of pros and cons. The advantages and disadvantages are clearer to people who have experienced multiple changes in the family structure in their lifetime. They can relate to how one is different from another. While these are the most common, you can research further to explore other lesser-known types.