A couple and their dependent children living together under the same roof is called as

Appeared in: IGNOU PB Bsc Entrance-2022

Explanation

A nuclear family, also known as an elementary family, is defined as a family group consisting of a married couple and their dependent children.
The key characteristic described in the question is that this unit lives together under the same roof, forming a single household.
This is considered the most basic and smallest unit of a family structure in modern societies.

Option A: An extended family includes more members than just the parents and their children. It incorporates other relatives such as grandparents, aunts, uncles, or cousins.
Option B: A joint family is a much larger and more complex structure, typically involving multiple generations and married siblings living together, sharing a common kitchen and resources.
Option D: Metro family is not a standard or recognized term in sociology to describe a type of family structure. It is an invalid option.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Sociological definitions of family structures as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
For a nurse, identifying a patient's family structure is a key part of the socio-cultural assessment. It provides insight into the patient's primary support system for care, decision-making, and emotional well-being.
The type of family influences discharge planning. A patient from a nuclear family might need more formal home health services, while a patient from a joint family might have multiple informal caregivers.
What if? If the question described a household with an elderly grandparent living with the parents and children, the correct answer would change to 'Extended family', as it includes a generation beyond the nuclear unit.

How to Approach the Question

First, carefully read the definition provided in the question stem: 'A couple and their dependent children living together under the same roof'.
Break down the key components: 1) a couple (two parents), 2) dependent children, and 3) a single household.
Evaluate each option against this specific definition.
Option A, 'Extended family', is incorrect because it implies additional relatives are present.
Option B, 'Joint family', is incorrect as it describes a larger, multi-generational household.
Option D, 'Metro family', is not a standard sociological term and can be dismissed.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Q74ngxKkprdACvkfGywJ4b

E6 Applied Sociology for Nurses TK Indrani p. 153-155

E6 Parks TextBook of Preventive & Social Medicine part 2 — Subpart A (pp 1-232 of 464) p. 221-223

Practise the full IGNOU PB Bsc Entrance-2022

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.