After marriage if the wife resides in her husband's house, descent and property is traced through the male li… - RUHS, Jaipur, M.Sc Nursing Entrance Exam-2023

RUHS, Jaipur, M.Sc Nursing Entrance Exam-2023

Applied Sociology

Easy

Appeared in: RUHS, Jaipur, M.Sc Nursing Entrance Exam-2023

Explanation

A patriarchal family is a social system where the male figure holds primary power and authority.
In this system, descent and inheritance are traced through the male lineage, which is known as being patrilineal.
A key characteristic is patrilocal residence, where the wife moves to live with or near her husband's family after marriage.
The question's description of the wife residing in the husband's house and property being traced through the male line directly aligns with the definition of a patriarchal family.

Option A: A matriarchal family is the opposite of the system described. In a matriarchal system, authority is held by the eldest female, and descent is traced through the female line (matrilineal).
Option C: The family of orientation refers to the family a person is born and raised in (i.e., one's parents and siblings). It describes a person's origin, not the structure of authority or descent in their future marital family.
Option D: An extended family refers to the size and composition of the family unit, which includes relatives beyond the immediate parents and children (like grandparents, uncles, aunts). While an extended family can be patriarchal, the term itself does not define the system of descent and authority.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Types of Family Structures as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Understanding family structures is crucial for community health nurses to provide culturally competent care. The family head (patriarch or matriarch) is often the primary decision-maker for health-related issues.
In a patriarchal system, a nurse may need to involve the husband or father-in-law in discussions about a female patient's health, family planning, or child's care to ensure adherence to treatment plans.
Caregiving roles are often defined by family structure. In patriarchal families, daughters-in-law may be the primary caregivers for elderly family members, a factor to consider when planning long-term care.

How to Approach the Question

First, break down the question into its key components: 1) wife resides in husband's house (patrilocal residence), and 2) descent and property are traced through the male line (patrilineal descent).
Next, review the definitions of the options provided.
The term 'Patriarchal' comes from 'patri-' (father) and '-arch' (ruler). This directly relates to the 'male line' and male authority described.
Compare the components from the question to the definition of each option. 'Patriarchal family' is the only option that encompasses both patrilocal residence and patrilineal descent.
Eliminate the other options. 'Matriarchal' is the direct opposite. 'Orientation' refers to the family one is born into, and 'Extended' refers to family size/composition, not its power structure.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Types of Family Structures
Stem keywords: marriage, wife resides in husband's house, descent, property, male line
Lead-in keywords: known as
Clinical cues: Age/sex group narrows the expected diagnosis, intervention, or normal reference range.
Negative lead-in flag: false