Family Structure & Function

-

Let’s talk about the family in Iceland. Generally family has a few functions in our life: reproductive, economic, socialization, language acquisition, and identity function. All the functions create our personality and it is different in every culture. 


https://adventures.com/blog/what-to-do-in-iceland-with-family/


Reproductive function:

Icelanders get married mostly late or do not get married at all even though family relations and values are important. Data from 2020 says that the Icelandic mother’s mean age at first birth was 28.7 years and in 2024, the total fertility rate was 1.94 children born per woman (CIA). Because of the size of the country, they are close with one another and extended families such as grandparents, aunts, and uncles often help with childcare, they do not live in the same house. What is interesting is that Icelandic families are usually larger than those of other Northern Europeans.


Economic function:

In the country, gender equity is highly promoted. At the end of 2023, about 73% of women and 81% of men were employed (Statistic Iceland). That is why both parents’ work and parental leave can be shared between mothers and fathers. It is said it offers financial stability for both parents. 

Socialiazation function:

The culture, tradition, and housework are some of the most important aspects of Icelandic families. From the youngest years children are taught how to be patriotic, take care of nature, and the importance of family bonds. Moreover, they are taught to be self-sufficient. It is normal to have chores such as cleaning their bedroom, changing the linen, vacuuming and mopping the floors, doing the laundry, preparing meals, and cleaning the kitchen after use. In a nutshell, their values are independence and closeness. 

https://images.app.goo.gl/UyB12Kd57AQEz7yc6

Language acquisition:

Icelandic is the primary language in Iceland and is the language most families use at their houses. Due to globalization, English is taught at schools so children in the future can find a good job or emigrate to another country. However, it is not second the most spoken language. Almost 3% of residents speak Polish, 0.4% Lithuanian and just 0.3% English (Writer), which is caused by migration

Identity function:

One of the Icelandic values is being modern. Families teach respect and freedom so everyone is encouraged to be themselves.

Icelandic families are close to the community. Their tight-knit bones are especially visible in rural areas where families live much closer to one another than in cities. Also, local and national activities are common and provide building connections with the community.
Icelandic worldview is mostly focused on nature. They promote respect and cooperation with the natural environment that is passed on through generations. Even though they are such a traditional nation, there is a balance between tradition and modernity. They support important social changes like gender equality and LGBTQ+ rights.


To sum up, for Icelandics family is so important, and that is why every family member is involved in childcare. Mostly both parents are actively involved and pass on values ​​passed down from generation to generation. Elders are highly respected because they have greater knowledge, which can also be used when raising children. Also, residents from the youngest years are encouraged to be individual but still responsible for the environment and local community. One of the best parental practices that are common in Iceland is being close and taking care of the children, but also letting them experience life by themselves. 

Net migration rate:

2024: 1.092 per 1,000 inhabitants

2010: 4.151 per 1,000 inhabitants

The data presents the difference between the number of immigrants and emigrants per 1,000 population. Between 2010 and 2024 Iceland experienced a significant decrease in the net migration rate which means that fewer people moved into the country or that the emigration level increased. 

Iceland is such a small country so the migration does not have such a big impact on the family structure. 

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Business in Iceland

-
Image
Have you ever thought about differences in the business world across various countries? In this blog, I will discuss the business values in Iceland and compare them with those in the United States. https://www.shutterstock.com/image-illustration/business-people-shaking-hands-on-iceland-55575229 In Iceland, business protocols and practices are not only traditional but also modern. One of the most important aspects is direct communication. Icelanders are straightforward not only in everyday situations but also in their business interactions. Additionally, punctuality is highly valued. Everyone is on time at their meetings, and if they are running late, letting them know the host is recommended. Icelanders shake hands as a greeting, which is the most appropriate way to meet someone in their culture. While the conversation it is vital to maintain eye contact. It shows the respect and interest in the conversation. If you want to start a conversation, the most popular and safe topic is wea...
Read more

Nonverbal Messages

-
Image
Britannica defines nonverbal communication as the “transfer of information from one person to another without the use of words or spoken language. It can occur in a variety of ways, including through facial expressions, gestures, and body posture or position.” Understanding non-verbal speech is very crucial to avoid misunderstandings. In various cultures, the same signs have different meanings, so knowledge is essential. Being familiar with these signs might help have a more fluent conversation. Additionally, nonverbal communication might be particularly helpful when a language barrier occurs. For example, while traveling, we might not speak the local language, but gestures can help us communicate with the local community. In Iceland, maintaining eye contact is a vital aspect of nonverbal communication. It shows respect and interest in the conversation. Moreover, one of the most vital gestures is shaking hands with the hosts when visiting someone and taking off your shoes before enter...
Read more