Socio-Economic Determinants of the Transition from Joint to Nuclear Families: A Study of Gwalior District
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Abstract
The present study examines the shifting family structure from joint families to nuclear families with special reference to the Gwalior district of Madhya Pradesh. Rapid urbanization, increased educational attainment, economic mobility, and changing lifestyle aspirations have contributed significantly to the weakening of traditional joint family systems in India. Using a causal–descriptive research design, primary data were collected from 350 respondents representing both joint and nuclear households. The findings reveal that employment outside the hometown, financial independence, lack of privacy, and interpersonal conflicts are major factors driving the transition toward nuclear family setups. Conditions within joint families, such as limited resources, unequal workload distribution, and over-dependence on earning members, also promote migration and subsequent formation of nuclear units. Comparative analysis shows that nuclear family members experience higher workload and stress levels due to limited shared responsibilities. The chi-square test confirms a statistically significant shift in family structure in the district. Overall, the study highlights that the transformation from joint to nuclear families is a complex socio-economic phenomenon shaped by modernization and individualistic values, presenting both opportunities and challenges for contemporary Indian households.
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