Couples who may be childless by choice are called?

Appeared in: DSSSB - 29 August 2019 (Shift-1)

Explanation

In sociology and family nursing, the specific term for a group of two people, such as a couple without children, is a 'dyad'.
This is considered the smallest and most basic family unit, consisting of two individuals in a partnership.
While they are a type of family, 'dyad' is the most precise classification for a childless couple.

Option A: 'Pairs' is a general, non-technical term for any two things or people. It lacks the specific sociological meaning required in the context of family structures.
Option B: 'Family' is a broad term that encompasses many different structures. While a dyad is a type of family, the question asks for the specific name for this particular unit, making 'dyad' the better answer.
Option C: The term 'parents' explicitly means individuals who have children. This directly contradicts the question's premise of the couple being 'childless'.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Terminology of Family Structures as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Understanding different family structures, including dyads, is crucial for nurses to provide holistic, patient-centered care. It helps in assessing support systems, family dynamics, and potential stressors.
A nurse's assessment and care plan must respect the patient's family structure and choices, such as the decision to be childless.
What if? If a patient from a dyadic family is hospitalized, the nurse should recognize that their partner is likely the primary and possibly only source of social support, which has implications for discharge planning and emotional support.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key terms in the question: 'couples' and 'childless'. This points to a specific family configuration.
Recognize that the question is asking for a specific sociological or nursing term, not a general one.
Evaluate each option based on this need for specificity.
Eliminate 'Parents' because it contradicts 'childless'.
Compare 'Pairs', 'Family', and 'Dyads'. 'Pairs' is too general. 'Family' is too broad.
Conclude that 'Dyads' is the most precise and technical term for a two-person group, which in this context refers to a childless couple.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Applied Sociology for Nurses TK Indrani p. 148-150

Practise the full DSSSB - 29 August 2019 (Shift-1)

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