Roadmap for Answer Writing

Introduction

• State the Thesis: Agree that family values shape individual decisions both within the family and in broader contexts.
• Brief Overview: Mention the significance of family values in moral and ethical decision-making.

Body

1. Influence Within the Family Setting

• Patriarchal Structures:
  • Fact: In patriarchal families, men are often expected to uphold values like responsibility and honor, while women are encouraged to be compassionate and nurturing (Macionis, 2017).
  • Example: Boys may be pushed towards leadership roles, while girls may be guided towards caregiving professions.
• Lifestyle Choices:
  • Fact: Children from vegetarian families are more likely to adopt similar eating habits (Giddens, 2017).
  • Example: A child raised in a health-conscious family may prioritize nutrition in their adult life.

2. Influence on Career and Relationships

• Career Choices:
  • Fact: Middle-class family values often dictate job preferences, favoring field jobs for boys and desk jobs for girls.
  • Example: A boy may be encouraged to pursue engineering, while a girl might be directed towards education or nursing.
• Marriage Preferences:
  • Fact: Family values can influence partner selection, often favoring same-caste and same-religion marriages.
  • Example: A young adult may feel pressured to choose a partner who aligns with familial expectations.

3. Influence on Broader Social Contexts

• Political Orientation:
  • Fact: Children raised in families valuing liberty are more likely to support democratic ideals (Inglehart & Norris, 2003).
  • Example: A child from a freedom-oriented family may actively participate in civic duties.
• Social Issues and Gender Roles:
  • Fact: Conservative family values may lead children to blame women for societal issues, such as violence against them.
  • Example: This could manifest in a reluctance to advocate for gender equality.

4. Resilience Against Negative Influences

• Protective Factors:
  • Fact: Strong family values can shield individuals from deviant influences and extremist ideologies (Hirschi, 1969).
  • Example: A person raised with values of kindness may resist recruitment into extremist groups.

Conclusion

• Restate Thesis: Reinforce the idea that family values are crucial in shaping decisions both personally and socially.
• Final Thoughts: Emphasize the importance of positive family values in fostering responsible and engaged citizens.