JOINT AND NUCLEAR FAMILY SYSTEMS: AN ANALYSIS IN THE LIGHT OF ISLAMIC TRADITIONS

Abstract

This research article analyzes and dissects the family systems, in an Islamic perspective, and how relevant it is to keep in mind various family practices in order to strengthen bonds. To answer this question, the multiple forms of family systems are discussed, compared, and evaluated to determine how they act in an Islamic context. The joint and nuclear family systems are the two main types as the focus of this study is to shed light on the role of Islam has to influence these systems and the various relationships that come with it as well. The results showed that the concept of an extended family is slowly deteriorating these days and more and more families only consist of parents and children and tend to exclude the grandparents. Results also showed that implementations of both family systems had differing effects on children, in the context of their social and cognitive development. From an outside perspective, it would be beneficial to highlight that the context of the relationships matters and both nuclear family system and joint family system have their pros and cons and it is only how they are implemented, according to Islamic principles, can success of either be gauged.