In recent decades, family structures around the world have changed dramatically. Whereas in the past, extended families—consisting of several generations living together—were common, today many people prefer to live alone or in small nuclear families. This ...
Faglig kvalitetssikret av lærere og toppstudenter · Følger læreplanen (LK20) · Sist oppdatert 2026-08-01
Introduction
In recent decades, family structures around the world have changed dramatically. Whereas in the past, extended families—consisting of several generations living together—were common, today many people prefer to live alone or in small nuclear families. This trend is particularly noticeable in urbanized and developed societies, where independence and privacy are highly valued. This essay will examine the reasons behind this shift and argue that while it offers certain advantages such as personal freedom and economic efficiency, it also has negative consequences for social cohesion and emotional well-being.
Economic and Urban Factors Behind the Trend
One of the main reasons people are choosing smaller households is economic and practical. In modern cities, the cost of housing, education, and healthcare is extremely high. Living in large extended families often becomes financially unsustainable, especially when space is limited. Young adults moving to cities for work or study find it easier and cheaper to rent small apartments rather than live with extended relatives. Moreover, globalization and urbanization have encouraged a lifestyle centered around mobility and independence. Many professionals relocate frequently for jobs, making it impractical to maintain traditional family structures. As a result, the extended family model—once common in rural communities—has become less compatible with modern economic realities. …