The family is considered to be the fundamental unit in a social setup. In a historian’s explanation, the term family diversity is used to define a variation from the traditional family. In a current view, the range of dimensions on which families vary. These variations can be in regard to structural or demographic characteristics. The United States, the recent years, has experienced a new change in family structure. The current families are more diverse, pluralistic, and fluid. There also have been profound demographic changes in life expectancy, childbearing, cohabitation, and an increase in single parenting (Smock & Schwartz, 2020). The traditional family of a nuclear family, considered the ideal structure, has been disrupted. These changes are associated with the presenting dimensions in society, as such is the concept of race and ethnicity in the USA.
The 21st century has had a reshuffle in racial marriages. Unlike in the past, when interracial marriages were not expected, there has been a substantial number of marriages between people of color. This is due to understanding the cultural diversities and their influence on society and the family. The aspect of family socioeconomic status is also a dimension of family diversity. Studies have revealed that the economical levels of individuals determine their well-being and that of their families (Smock & Schwartz, 2020). Families living below the poverty level are faced with different challenges and disruptions. Most of the families are based on single parenting due to separation.
There has been a change in the nature and types of marriages in the United States of America people in the past years. Unlike the traditional style, where marriage was an inevitable rite of passage, starting families has become an option ignored by many. Generally, the rates of marriages have declined over time. This is due to various decisions people make regarding their matrimony life. Some people prefer not to marry for education and serve in the church ultimately (Smock & Schwartz, 2020). People are also seeking new ways of legalizing their relationships. This could include partners getting into a common-law relationship without marrying. The marriage age has also been altered in the present society due to seeking higher education and financial constriction. For the females, the current marriage age is about 26 years, while their male counterparts match at around 28.
The trends in remarriages and divorce have shifted in recent years. There has been an increased number of remarriages. This is associated with unhealthy marriages that end up in divorces. Separated people seek new partners and get married again. The death of a partner has also been a leading cause of remarriages. Most people find the loneliness of widowhood unbearable and therefore opt to marry again. In the past, divorces were termed to be a vice in society. It was thus never spoken about. In recent years, however, the rates of divorces have been rising. Studies prove that divorce rates have increased to 7.5 per 1000 people (Smock & Schwartz, 2020). It is also evident that divorces vary depending on race and social factors. The educated people have a lower rate than the unlearned ones. People of color have a higher rate of divorce.
The family plays a paramount role in the process of socialization. It is considered to be an agent of socialization that guides people on how to relate with themselves and others. The process of socialization is based on various laid norms and values. The family serves as a role model to its members especially the young by showing them how to behave and relate to colleagues. It enables someone form a good and acceptable personality that can helps them socialize well.
Reference
Smock, P. J., & Schwartz, C. R. (2020). The demography of families: A review of patterns and change. Journal of Marriage and Family, 82(1), 9-34. Web.