Roles In Aboriginal Family

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In Aboriginal society, family is an important part of life, however Indigenous family structures are significantly different to traditional Western family unit. Whilst many non-Indigenous people live within a “nuclear family” unit (i.e. a single family living within a household), Aboriginal people have an extended family system, which can often include distant relatives1. These strong family ties ensure that cultural beliefs are passed on from one generation to the next.

Importantly for those working in the childcare sector, raising children in Aboriginal communities is the responsibility of the extended family network, not just the child’s parents1. This extends to the care, discipline and education of young children. As such, it is not uncommon for Aboriginal children to be raised by members of the family other than their immediate parents2. For example, many older Aboriginal people have a major role in raising their grandchildren and great grandchildren1, and they can be the main care-giver. Their position in the family is highly respected and their knowledge and opinions are valued and respected.
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Consequently, first-born and eldest children often have a large degree of personal