Kinship
Kinship refers to the system of social relationships that connect individuals in a society based on blood relations (biological), marriage, or adoption. It forms the foundation of family structures and determines social roles, responsibilities, and inheritance.
Types of Kinship:
- Consanguineal: Relations through blood – like parent-child, siblings
- Affinal: Relations through marriage – like husband-wife, in-laws
- Fictive: Socially recognized bonds – like godparents, foster relationships
Importance in Society:
- Determines roles in family (e.g., breadwinner, caretaker)
- Provides emotional and economic support
- Defines inheritance and lineage
- Preserves cultural and religious traditions
Explanation: Kinship acts as a basic unit of support and organization in both rural and urban communities and plays a critical role in social work, especially in understanding family-based interventions.