Question 1: Describe two ways in which the traditional nuclear family has changed in the UK over the past 50 years.

Answer: Possible answers include an increase in cohabitation rather than marriage, rise in single-parent families, more dual-earner households, or diversity in family forms such as same-sex partnerships.

Question 2: Explain the term 'family diversity' and provide two examples of different family types that illustrate this concept.

Answer: 'Family diversity' refers to the variety of family structures present in society. Examples include extended families living together, same-sex couples raising children, and single-parent households.

Question 3: Identify and explain one sociological reason for the decline of the traditional extended family in the UK.

Answer: One reason is increased urbanisation, which leads to families living separately in cities, reducing the likelihood of extended family members living in close proximity.

Question 4: Discuss how economic factors have influenced changes in family structures in the UK, providing specific examples.

Answer: Economic factors such as increased women’s participation in paid work have led to dual-income households. Economic hardship may also lead to higher rates of divorce or cohabitation instead of marriage.

Question 5: Describe the trend of marriage and cohabitation among young adults in the UK today.

Answer: More young adults are choosing to cohabit instead of marrying, and some delay marriage until later in life, reflecting changing attitudes towards commitment.

Question 6: Sketch a simple diagram to illustrate the concept of 'family diversity' in modern UK society. Label the different family types shown.

Answer: A broad diagram showing various family forms such as a nuclear family, single-parent family, same-sex couple, and multigenerational household with labels for each type.

Question 7: Explain how government policies might influence family trends, providing one example.

Answer: Government policies like parental leave or child benefit can encourage certain family forms, such as supporting working parents or single-parent families.

Question 8: Identify one sociological theory that explains the decline of the extended family and briefly describe its view.

Answer: Functionalism suggests that modern society has become more complex, leading to smaller, more specialized family units, which reduces reliance on extended family networks.

Question 9: Discuss the impact of cultural diversity on family structures in the UK.

Answer: Cultural diversity introduces different family practices, such as arranged marriages or multigenerational living, enriching the variety of family forms in the UK.

Question 10: Reflect on how changing gender roles have affected family life and responsibilities.

Answer: Greater gender equality has led to shared household responsibilities and decision-making, with women participating more in paid work and men taking on domestic roles.