Family of Birth — Sociological Term

Family in which one is born is known as:

Correct Answer: Family of Origin or Orientation

The family in which a person is born is called the Family of Origin or Family of Orientation. It is the family where one grows up and is socialized.

Types of Families (Sociological Classification)

• Family of Origin/Orientation: The family into which one is born — includes parents and siblings.
• Family of Procreation: The family one sets up after marriage — includes spouse and one's own children.
• Nuclear family (= Primary family): Consists of husband, wife, and their unmarried children only — smallest family unit.
• Joint family: Extended family living together — multiple generations under one roof.

Memory Tip

• Orientation = where you are oriented/socialized first → your birth family.
• Procreation = the family you create/procreate → your family after marriage.