Family Unit

The author of the first article, Hansen, describes to the reader that there is a clash between the idea of independence and interdependence within a family unit. This idea stems from the knowledge and assumptions made by the general public. The assumptions that are made are that families can often be disconnected and self-sufficient on their own. This is primarily directed towards white middle class families in America. Therefore, Hansen took white middle class families who are nuclear to prove the assumptions wrong. The Standard North American Family (SNAF) influences and supports the ideology that these nuclear families are supporting the societal expectations. SNAF assumes that a heterosexual, two parent household will raise and cultivate their children to follow them religiously, culturally, materially, intellectually, and genetically. Hansen also comes to the conclusion that the structure of the work force and school create a challenge for parents trying to send their children to school but maintain their own profession. Finding day care or after school care is a challenge in itself so that the parents can keep a job to support their children financially and then provide care for them as well.

According to Sarkisian, Gerena, and Gerstel there is an ethnic difference in terms of how families as a whole are constructed and operate. Certain groups, like Mexicans and Puerto Ricans, stay very involved in each other’s lives even as they get older. Extended family members live close to one another and provide a large network of support. On the contrary, white families usually separate and move away from one another. A support system is still in place amongst relatives but it is not nearly as apparent and crucial. There are three characteristics which lead to this difference in family structure and they are familism, religious involvement, and gender ideology. Latinos value the idea that family networks are one giant network that love and support one another. Also, their sense of religion is much stronger and is seen as a family event and tradition. Lastly, Latinos operate under a predominantly patriarchal system known as machismo. Therefore, the men rule the scene while the women are much more submissive. All of these factors add to the ideas and variety of level of extended families.