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In today’s times, nuclear family is the norm, with not more than one or two kids. But there are some families that extend beyond the immediate family members, revolving around uncles, aunts, cousins and even relatives, sometimes.
So, which is better? Nuclear family or joint family?
Nuclear family
Advantage: Privacy and independence
You can claim privacy when you live in a nuclear family. You don’t have a crowd of people living under the same roof. You can certainly mark your boundaries and ask your family members not to cross them. In fact, in nuclear families, there will be no breach of privacy as four to five family members would be busy in their own lives. Besides, you will be independent to take your own decisions as there is no one in a higher position in the family to question you.
Disadvantage: Lack of support
In nuclear families, you have to rely on yourself to overcome all challenges. There will be no wisdom or wise words of elders to rely on. You learn by trial and error method. You become your own support system and could badly miss a shoulder to cry on or someone to share your success with.
Joint families
Advantage: Support
Although joint families mean losing your privacy as there will be too many people in the house, you would never feel left out. There is always someone there to help out or give your financial and emotional support you would need at times. You would never feel lonely as there will be someone in the joint family to entertain you and keep you in high spirits. Joint families are worth it if you love to be surrounded by people.
Disadvantage: Misunderstandings
When you live in a joint family, the chances of misunderstandings are higher. It would be difficult to trust anyone in the family in times of distress. It may lead to constant fights and tension in the house. And if any financial crisis comes, then the situation can become even tougher to handle.
Verdict: Both the family system has its own merits and demerits and to each his own.