A Level Sociology OCR Practice Exam

What defines a nuclear family?

1. A group of individuals linked by partnership and parenthood

2. Only a single mother with her children

3. A household with multiple generations living together

4. A group of unrelated individuals living as a family

The correct answer is: A group of individuals linked by partnership and parenthood

The definition of a nuclear family is accurately captured by the notion of a group of individuals linked by partnership and parenthood. This typically involves two parents (a mother and father, or in various modern interpretations, parents in a domestic partnership) and their biological or adopted children living together in one household. This family structure is often contrasted with extended families, which include other relatives such as grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. In this context, the other options highlight configurations that do not fit the traditional understanding of a nuclear family. A single mother with her children represents a variation of the family structure but lacks the partnership component, which is essential to the nuclear family definition. A household with multiple generations living together describes an extended family, while a group of unrelated individuals living as a family does not capture the familial relationship aspect inherent in a nuclear family setup. Thus, the first option is the most accurate representation of what constitutes a nuclear family.