Definitions of Family

A classic definition of the family is one provided by the Functionalist sociologist George Peter Murdock ('Social Structure', 1949), when he states:

'The family is a social group characterised by common residence, economic co-operation and reproduction. It includes adults of both sexes, at least two of whom maintain a socially-approved sexual relationship, and one or more children, own or adopted, of the sexual cohabiting adults.'

A more modern definition is offered by Anthony Giddens:

'A group of individuals related to one another by blood ties, marriage or adoption, who form an economic unit, the adult members of which are responsible for the upbringing of children.'

The most recent version from Giddens:

'A small group of closely related people who share a distinct identity and responsibility for each other that outweighs commitments to others. This group is commonly, but not necessarily, based on marriage, biological descent or adoption.'