The traditional nuclear family has undergone a significant decline since the 1970s, with fewer American adults living with a spouse and children. This trend has sparked various reactions, from political backlash to enthusiastic support for alternative family structures. While the nuclear family’s demise has raised questions about the future of family life, it also reflects broader shifts in economic and cultural dynamics. As societal norms evolve, diverse household arrangements are emerging, challenging traditional policies and institutions designed around the nuclear family model.
Goodbye — and good riddance — to the concept of the ‘traditional American family’
Updated on May 7, 2024