Family Transition in South Asia: Determinants and Implications

Abstract

This article is a comprehensive review of the changing face of families and households due to the changes in demography, socio economic factors and societal norms. One aspect covered in this paper is the progressively declining size of households, from 1970s to the 90s throughout the Asian region. Taking the case of Sri Lanka, Sri Lanka records the largest decline of large households, and also the largest number of female headed households. The reasons for these trends are investigated. The study showed that International migration, including labour migration is one such cause and the impact on family, society, and country are explored in greater detail.