In Indian society, families are primarily categorized into two types: nuclear and extended families. A nuclear family consists of two parents and their children, signifying unitary and often self-sufficient domestic arrangements. In contrast, an extended family, or joint family, includes multiple couples or generations living together, sometimes encompassing the extended kin network. The concept of family is not static; it shifts in response to societal transformations such as migration, economic changes, and urbanization.
Moreover, the understanding and relevance of family structures are intertwined with socio-political and economic contexts. For instance, the migration of male laborers from rural areas often results in a predominance of female-headed families, whereas urban work environments shift traditional caregiving roles, involving extended family members, especially grandparents. The section illustrates that the family is not only a personal space but is intricately linked to broader cultural and social institutions, reflecting the dynamic nature of familial arrangements in India.