Nuclear family vs. Joint family
1. Composition
A typical nuclear family consists of a husband, a wife, a couple of children. The number of members are very few in a nuclear family.
In a joint family system, the number of dependents living under the roof is much larger. Those living with a joint family may include, in addition to the above, grandparents, married brothers, sisters, wives of sons, grandsons, granddaughters, other dependents and relatives.
2. Responsibility
The responsibility of a nuclear family rests on the couple.
The joint-family system lays down a responsibility on the head of the family. The elders trains the younger ones for different occupations, marries them, gives them a start in life, and takes care of the infirm and the old.
3. Bond of unity and affection
Compared to nuclear family, there is higher bond of unity and affection among different family members and relations in a joint family. In a joint family, the prosperity and adversity of the family are shared equally.
4. Subsistence
The subsistence of a nuclear family is dependent upon either on husband or wife, or both.
A joint family system ensures a minimum of subsistence to all the members of the family.
5. Freedom
In a nuclear family, the young couple gets more freedom. They can freely do the things that they like. They can also take risk with their money and display their enterprising nature.
In a joint family, the individuals get less freedom. The family members have joint rights in family property and wealth. There is less scope for the development of individuality.