Funeral Service Practice Exam

What is a key characteristic of an egalitarian family?

1. Hierarchy in decision making

2. Joint roles and responsibilities

3. Separation of roles

4. Uniformity in parenting style

The correct answer is: Joint roles and responsibilities

An egalitarian family is characterized by joint roles and responsibilities, where both partners typically share power and decision-making equally. This approach contrasts with more traditional family structures that rely on a hierarchical model, where one partner may dominate in making decisions or allocating responsibilities. In an egalitarian family, both parents contribute to caregiving, financial support, and household tasks, fostering a partnership based on equality and mutual respect. Focusing on the other options, hierarchy in decision-making suggests a top-down approach typical of a more traditional family structure. The separation of roles would indicate that family members have distinct, non-overlapping responsibilities, which doesn't align with an egalitarian viewpoint. Uniformity in parenting style might imply a singular approach to child-rearing, whereas an egalitarian family may embrace diverse styles that both parents agree upon, emphasizing cooperation rather than uniformity. Thus, the concept of joint roles and responsibilities encapsulates the essence of egalitarian families.