Question

Sometimes what’s considered “normal” is far from what’s most prevalent currently or historically. How does this statement relate to perceptions about the “traditional” family?

Answer 1

ANSWER:

The definition of normal has changed over time whereas the how societies define traditional remains constant and fixed. For some societies smoking could be viewed as normal whereas for traditional societies who uphold values of disciplinary behaviours this behaviour would be abnormal and would need punishment. We can diferentiate between 'normal' and the same behaviour as 'far from normal' through the following aspects in context of a traditional family:

1. Communication: Language has developed over a time and is now inclusive of urban slang words. Youngsters use these word as an addition to their vocabulary and internet diction. This would now be viewed as normal for teen living in cities like New York etc with families who are open minded. But for faimilies who practises traditional values of using proper language and encourage proper and reqpectful use of words may view this behaviour as far from normal.

2. Food: Frozen food and junk food like burgers, pizzas is now popular in every country and towns. People know about it and some prefer this over regular food in times of haste. People might skip breakfast or any other meal and end up eating just two meals a day. This kind of behaviour is now common to all and practised by almost all people who work. But for traditional families who uphold values of eating right, on time with proper three course meal habits would end up considering these are unhealthy and far from normal.

3. Family Structure: We have now developed a culture of single families or cohabitation or women who work in the family. For most towns and cities it is now a common family attritbute. But for traditional families who see working women as a taboo or do not allow it along with values of staying together as a joint family to practise values of family cohesion might view it hazardous to their core set of values and regard it as far from normal.

Thus, these types of normal and far from normal attributes can be seen for other components as well like job, interactions with people, marriage, religion etc that can illustrate the difference between what seems normal is far from normal in terms of traditional families.