BY: LYNDY ANG

It was probably up until the turn of this century, or the beginning of the New Millennium, whereby families around the world, especially Asian families, had this propensity to live under one roof, with sometimes extended family members also living with them.

The situation now in this nuclear age is remarkably different, as the family unit in society is witnessing a break up, as members of a family go their separate ways and live independently, no longer subscribing to being close-knit families.

Whether this scenario has evolved for better or worse is debatable. However, the ‘Power of One’ theory is being fully reinforced as people live free from encumbrances and other familial obligations which is esteemed by psychologists as being not very healthy.

This is because, it must be noted, living independent lives, while very inviting and exciting, is not fully possible as there is always that interdependence that surfaces in people’s lives causing them to realise that no man is an island.

Also, for the general well being of society, it is advisable that each family stay intact as a family unit, until children marry and leave to form their own families rather than leave the family fold prematurely.

But staying alone is to be never encouraged, as it is never the same as living with your family, especially for those who are seniors and the elderly, which is why it is perhaps prudent and wise to once again bring back the ‘Family First’ concept.

-THE MALAYSIA VOICE

(The views expressed on this opinion is of the writer and not the publisher)