Which type of family comes under the male head of the family possessing all powers?

RRB Nsg. Superintendent-20 July 2019 (Shift-1)

Applied Sociology

Easy

Appeared in: RRB Nsg. Superintendent-20 July 2019 (Shift-1)

Explanation

A patriarchal family is defined by a system where the male head, typically the father or eldest male, holds supreme authority.
In this structure, the male head is the owner and administrator of family property and rights, and all other members are subordinate to him.
Key characteristics include patrilineal descent (lineage traced through the father) and patrilocal residence (wife moves to the husband's home).
This system was historically prevalent among ancient societies like the Hebrews, Greeks, Romans, and Aryans of India.

Option A: This term defines the composition of a family (a married couple and their unmarried children), not the structure of authority within it.
Option B: This is the direct opposite of the system described. In a matriarchal family, the authority is vested in the woman (mother or eldest female).
Option C: This term describes the size and composition of the family (three or more generations living together), not necessarily the power dynamics, although many joint families are patriarchal.

Visual 1: Diagram: A flowchart illustrating the hierarchy and flow of power in a patriarchal family versus a matriarchal family.
Visual 2: Infographic: A visual comparison of different family types (Nuclear, Joint, Extended, Patriarchal, Matriarchal) with key characteristics for each.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Types of Family Structures and Authority as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Understanding family structure is vital for nurses to identify the primary decision-maker for health-related issues, including treatment consent and health education.
In a patriarchal family, the nurse should recognize that the male head's approval or involvement may be crucial for implementing a patient's care plan.
This knowledge helps in culturally competent nursing care, allowing the nurse to navigate family dynamics respectfully and effectively.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key phrase in the question: 'male head of the family possessing all powers'. This is the defining characteristic you need to match.
Analyze the options based on their etymological roots if possible. 'Patri-' relates to 'father' (like paternal), and 'Matri-' relates to 'mother' (like maternal).
Evaluate 'Patriarchal family'. The prefix 'Patri-' directly aligns with the 'male head' described in the question.
Consider the other options. 'Matriarchal' is the opposite. 'Nuclear' and 'Joint' describe the family's composition (who lives together), not the system of authority. Therefore, they are less specific answers to the question about power.
Conclude that 'Patriarchal family' is the most precise term for a family structure ruled by the male head.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Types of Family Structures and Authority
Stem keywords: family, male head, all powers
Lead-in keywords: Which type
Clinical cues: Age/sex group narrows the expected diagnosis, intervention, or normal reference range.

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