Photo AI
As the world's oldest form of human relationship, the family has survived thousands of years, adapting itself constantly to changing socio-economic conditions and the progress of humanity - Leaving Cert Home Economics - Question 5 - 2016
Question 5
As the world's oldest form of human relationship, the family has survived thousands of years, adapting itself constantly to changing socio-economic conditions and th... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:As the world's oldest form of human relationship, the family has survived thousands of years, adapting itself constantly to changing socio-economic conditions and the progress of humanity - Leaving Cert Home Economics - Question 5 - 2016
Step 1
Analyse the social and economic changes that affect contemporary families.
Answer
Contemporary families today face several social and economic changes:
Social Changes:
- Decline in Extended Family: Families have moved away from traditional extended family structures, leading to increased isolation and a diminished support network.
- Changes in Family Structure: There has been a rise in single-parent families and blended families due to factors like divorce and remarriage.
- Role of Women: Women's roles have evolved significantly; more women are joining the workforce, which affects family dynamics and child-rearing responsibilities.
- Education: Access to education has been prioritized which impacts family planning and child development.
Economic Changes:
- Rising Living Costs: The cost of living has increased dramatically, putting pressure on families to maintain a certain standard of living.
- Employment Trends: Job security has declined due to economic shifts, impacting parents’ ability to provide.
- Access to Services: Families rely more on state support for housing and healthcare, making them vulnerable to changes in government policy.
Step 2
Explain how the family can meet the physical and psychological needs of children so that they can contribute to and succeed in a rapidly changing society.
Answer
To foster children’s growth and adaptation:
Physical Needs:
- Food: Parents should provide a balanced diet tailored to meet the nutritional needs of their growing children.
- Clothing: Ensuring that children have appropriate clothing for protection and comfort is crucial.
- Shelter: Families must provide a safe and stable home environment where children can thrive.
Psychological Needs:
- Love and Affection: Demonstrating unconditional love nurtures children's emotional well-being and self-esteem.
- Trust: Establishing a secure and dependable environment helps children feel safe and valued.
- Praise and Recognition: Encouragement and positive reinforcement are vital for building children's confidence and motivation.
Step 3
Discuss the challenges that may be experienced by the parents of a child with special needs.
Answer
Parents of children with special needs often face significant challenges, including:
- Emotional Stress: The day-to-day challenges of caregiving can lead to mental and emotional exhaustion, impacting overall family dynamics.
- Financial Strain: Special needs children often require specialized care and resources, leading to potential financial hardships.
- Social Isolation: Parents might feel isolated due to the unique demands of raising a child with special needs, making it hard to connect with other parents.
- Balancing Responsibilities: Managing the needs of other children alongside a special needs child can create conflict and stress within the family.