Nuclear vs. Extended Families in Oman
Nuclear versus Extended Families: Which One is Healthier for Omanis?
Asmaa al- Suleimani
Dr. Mounir Ben Zid
Advanced Writing, ENGL3119
May 16th, 2013
Abstract
location is Nizwa, Oman
Family arrangements in the US have become more "di...
Family PortraitAs family is the greatest social institution, the issue of family types is a significant social topic to explore. No Omani studies have been done to tackle this social issue even though it is an important social aspect of that represents the Omani culture. To this effect, this paper discusses the condition of the extended and nuclear families In Oman. It aims to find out which family system is healthier for the Omani society and why it is healthier. For this purpose, I have conducted a questionnaire that was answered by Omani males and females from different ages. The findings revealed that the nuclear system is more dominating in a percentage of 90%. However, over half of the respondents admitted that the extended system is healthier for Omanis. Therefore, the study recommends that Omanis strengthen their relations with relatives in a time most of them are separated in nuclear families. In addition, if not preferring to live with the extended family, I recommend that Omanis should live in separate homes in a neighborhood to keep the social connection. I also suggest conducting other researches about the relation between family systems and other social issues.
Introduction
Marriage is the greatest social connection in communities which is usually followed by starting a family. There were times in the past when people were proud and happy of having many children around them and sharing a house with other family members as well. However, this picture of large families has changed; now parents tend to live separately for the sake of privacy. The nuclear family consists of (mother, father, and their...