The Family 

     The structure of a family takes different forms around the world and even in the same society. The family's form changes as it adapts to _________ (change) social and economic influences. Until recently, the most common form in North America was the nuclear family, _________ (consist) of a married couple with their minor children. The nuclear family is an _________ (depend) unit. It must be prepared to fend for itself. Individual family members _________ (strong) depend on one another. There is little help from outside family in emergencies. Elderly _________ (relative) of a nuclear family are cared for only if it is possible for the family to do so. In North America, the _________ (elder) often do not live with the family; they live in _________ (retire) communities and nursing homes. 

     There are many parallels between the nuclear family in _________ (industry) societies, such as North America, and families in societies such as that of the Inuits, who live in harsh environments. The nuclear family structure is well _________ (adapt) to a life of mobility. In harsh conditions, mobility allows the family to hunt for food. For North Americans, the hunt for jobs and _________ (improve) social status also require mobility.