Modern Canadian Families Changes Effecting Family 1960 - Present

Ethic of Individualism The me generation Youth of the 60s were about “do your own thing” Rebellion against institutions like governments, organized religion or the family Family members began to lead separate lives

The Birth Control Pill Introduced in the 60s Pregnancy could be controlled for the first time Sex outside of marriage and common-law relationships became accepted Married couples could limit the number of their children

Liberalization of Divorce Laws In the past, couples had to prove adultery to get a divorce In 1968 couples could divorce after living apart for 3 years Now 40% of marriages end in divorce Causes rise in blended families, single parent families and lots of custody battles

Changing Women’s Roles Women began attending universities and colleges in 60s Woman could choose to family and career Women moved into traditional male careers Men took on new roles The nanny

Decline of Family Wage In the past, the man’s wages were enough for family Cost of raising family has risen since 80s It may cost over $150,000 to raise a child to the age of 18

Smaller Families Rising costs have caused couples to delay having children Some families decide to have no children Fertility rate has declined in Canada, below the rate needed to maintain population

Aging of Society Baby boom generation (people born in 50s and 60s Getting older and living longer The oldest boomers will reach age sixty-five by the year 2030

Effects of Aging Society Will expect services like housing, and recreation, and healthcare Weaker family ties may lead governments to step in Will there be enough care givers? Will pension plans support the large number of seniors?

Advances in Technology Machines now do dangerous backbreaking work done by people in the past Computers, electronics, robotics Now more healthy workplace

Improved Quality of Life Central heating Medical advances Easy transportation Home entertainment

Downside of Technology Working long hours Often have several jobs Can’t get away from work - cell phone Less family time Couch potatoes Destruction of environment