The Structure of the Latin American Family: Past, Present and Future.

Indianapolis, IN

I will analyze the structure of Latin American families as they are perceived today. In order to discuss a family, there are some basic concepts that must be defined. The first of these concepts should be "traditional." In order to fully understand the incredible diversity of types of families in a present day context, I will give a brief description of what a "typical" family would be like over various milestones in Latin American history. I will talk about the concept of "extended family" and its importance, traditions and basic beliefs, and gender roles. I will discuss several of these historical milestones in comparison with the changes seen in family structure. After this historical snapshot, I will begin to break down the old stereotypical definitions of family and explore the many diverse and vastly different definitions of family that exist today. Some of the types of alternative families I will discuss are single parent families, non-religious families, and homosexual families. Lastly, I will make some general observations between Latin America families and families in the United States to give an idea of the similarities and differences that exist between the two regions. As a final thought, I will hypothesize what families will look like in the years to come, setting the stage for discussion concerning current events and controversies concerning the family and its future.