Changing Social Values

A Study to Evolve Family Structures and Intergenerational Relationships

Abstract

This study explores the relationship between evolving family structures and changing social values in contemporary society, investigating how the transformation from traditional extended family models toward nuclear, single-parent, blended, and non-traditional family arrangements is both shaped by and contributes to shifts in social values related to individualism, gender roles, intergenerational obligations, marriage, and community solidarity. This research employs a quantitative, cross-sectional survey design to assess the perceptions and experiences of 100 adults regarding the interrelationship between family structural changes and social value transformation. A structured questionnaire measuring family structure characteristics, adherence to traditional versus modern values, intergenerational relationship quality, and perceived social consequences of family change was administered. The findings reveal significant associations between nuclear family residence and individualistic value orientation (r = 0.47, p < 0.01), and between extended family residence and collectivist value orientation (r = 0.52, p < 0.01). The regression model indicates that family structure type, urbanization level, education, and women's employment status collectively explain 39% of the variance in social value orientation scores. Significant generational differences emerge, with younger respondents endorsing more individualistic and egalitarian values. The study concludes that family structural change and social value transformation are mutually reinforcing processes and recommends policies that support diverse family forms while strengthening intergenerational bonds.