How to Find Family Roles
- 1). Determine who in the family plays the provision of resources role. This role encompasses the provision of essential needs such as money, food, clothing and shelter. In traditional homes this role is typically played by the husband. In modern families it is common for the role to be either parent or shared in instances where both parents work.
- 2). Determine who in the family plays the role of nurturer. This role encompasses meeting the emotional needs of the family. In traditional families the mother plays the nurturer role for the children and the husband plays this role for his wife. In more modern homes, the role may be shared by both parents, or even adopted by a caregiver outside of the family unit in the case of children who spend their days in daycare or with a nanny.
- 3). Determine who in the family plays the role of life skills development. This role encompasses meeting the developmental needs of the children and adults such as teaching the children responsibility with their school work or correcting a family member who has behaved in an unacceptable manner. In most healthy families, this role requires the effort of both parents, who hold all the children as well as the other spouse accountable.
- 4). Determine who in the family plays the role of maintenance and management of the family system. This role encompasses the overseeing of the family's finances and disciplining of its members. Traditionally this role was played by the family's father figure, in modern families, this task tends to be divided between the two parents, as the tasks can be overwhelming for one single member to handle alone.