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.
Model Answer
Introduction
I agree that family values significantly shape the decisions individuals make both within the family setting and in broader social contexts. These values, which encompass moral and ethical principles, serve as a guiding framework for behavior and choices.
Influence within the Family Setting
Family structure directly affects the values instilled in children. For example, in patriarchal families, traditional roles assign responsibility and honor to men while promoting nurturing traits like compassion and service in women. This dynamic influences children’s perceptions of gender roles and responsibilities, shaping their future decisions in relationships and careers (Macionis, 2017). A child from a vegetarian family is likely to adopt similar dietary preferences, demonstrating how familial beliefs can dictate lifestyle choices (Giddens, 2017).
Broader Social Contexts
Family values also extend their influence into societal interactions and political orientations. Children raised in families that emphasize liberty and freedom are more inclined to support democratic values and engage in civic responsibilities. Conversely, those from conservative backgrounds may internalize blame towards women for societal issues, such as violence, reflecting a narrow worldview shaped by family beliefs (Inglehart & Norris, 2003).
Moreover, strong family values can act as a buffer against negative influences. For instance, individuals nurtured in environments that prioritize kindness and mercy are less susceptible to extremist ideologies, reducing the likelihood of deviant behavior (Hirschi, 1969).
Conclusion
In conclusion, family values profoundly influence individual decision-making both within familial settings and in broader societal contexts. They not only shape personal identities but also determine how individuals interact with and respond to the world around them. By understanding these dynamics, we can better comprehend the complexities of human behavior and social development.