Family structure refers to the organization or composition of a family unit. It includes factors such as marriage patterns, gender roles, family size, living arrangements, and kinship systems within a society.
Related terms
Patriarchy: A social system where males hold primary power and dominate roles in political leadership, moral authority, social privilege, and control over resources.
Matrilineal Society: A social system where descent is traced through female ancestors.
Extended Family: A family structure that includes relatives beyond just parents and children (e.g., grandparents, aunts, uncles).