- Read and follow the directions on pages 160 and 161.
- Conduct an interview with an older family member.
- Summarize your findings regarding familial and social changes, and your ethnocultural and religious heritage. (Include one example)
- Your paper should be:
- One (1) page
- Typed according to APA style for margins, formating and spacing standards
Title: Exploring Familial and Social Changes Through an Interview with an Older Family Member
Introduction
In the pursuit of understanding the dynamics of familial and social changes, as well as my ethnocultural and religious heritage, I conducted an interview with my grandmother, Mary Smith, who is now 82 years old. Through this insightful conversation, I gained a deeper understanding of the shifts that have occurred within our family and society over the years, as well as the significance of our ethnocultural and religious heritage.
Familial Changes
During the interview, my grandmother reminisced about the close-knit extended family gatherings of her youth. She vividly described how family members used to gather every Sunday for a large meal, where everyone had a role to play, from preparing dishes to setting the table. This tradition fostered strong bonds among relatives and created cherished memories. However, Mary noted that in recent years, such gatherings have become rare due to changing lifestyles, work commitments, and geographical dispersion. Family members now rely more on technology to stay connected, with phone calls and video chats replacing face-to-face interactions.
One striking example of this familial change is our annual Christmas celebration. In the past, our family would come together at my grandmother’s house, decorating the Christmas tree, sharing stories, and enjoying homemade treats. However, as family members moved away and started their own families, the tradition shifted. Today, we maintain our connection through a virtual Christmas celebration, which, although convenient, lacks the warmth and physical togetherness of the past.
Social Changes
Mary also discussed the significant societal shifts she has witnessed over her lifetime. She mentioned that in her youth, societal roles were more defined, with clear expectations for men and women. She recalled how women were often expected to focus on homemaking, while men were the primary breadwinners. However, she noted that over the years, society has progressed towards greater gender equality. Women now have more opportunities in the workforce, and societal norms have evolved to reflect a more balanced distribution of responsibilities within families.
Ethnocultural and Religious Heritage
In terms of our ethnocultural and religious heritage, Mary emphasized the importance of preserving our Irish Catholic roots. She shared a story of how our ancestors emigrated from Ireland seeking a better life in the United States and how they held onto their faith and cultural traditions. She spoke fondly of the annual St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, where the entire family would come together to celebrate their Irish heritage. This tradition of embracing our cultural and religious heritage has remained strong and continues to be a source of pride and identity for our family.
Conclusion
The interview with my grandmother, Mary Smith, shed light on the familial and social changes that have occurred over the years, as well as the enduring significance of our ethnocultural and religious heritage. While some traditions have evolved or faded with time, our commitment to preserving our heritage remains unwavering. As we navigate the complexities of the modern world, the lessons learned from our family’s past continue to shape our values and connections, providing a sense of continuity and belonging in an ever-changing society.