Public Administration N4

Read the extract below and answer the questions.
The well-being of society is greatly influenced by the well-being of individual citizens and their families. Strong families are central to improving social and economic development. The government also needs to create institutions to ensure citizens’ rights are upheld. Courts of law ensure that the law is always applied thereby protecting citizens’ rights.

Question 1.1 : 

Strong families are central to improving social and economic development. Describe the different types of family systems

Answer

Family systems offer unique insights into family dynamics, gender roles, and decision-making processes, all of which play a crucial role in shaping social and economic development outcomes. These structures and roles vary significantly across different cultural and societal contexts.

1. Traditional System

• Children perceive the father and husband as the sole supporter and decision-makers in the family.
• The wife assumes the role of a full-time housewife and educator, emphasizing obedience to her husband.

2. System of Camaraderie

• In this system, the husband primarily serves as the breadwinner and decision-maker for the family.
• The wife’s input and advice are considered valuable in decision-making.
• She often holds a part-time or supportive job while maintaining her roles as an educator and homemaker.
• The wife receives recognition for her non-domestic skills and enjoys a degree of independence.

3. Egalitarian System (System of Equality)

• In an egalitarian family system, both husband and wife pursue careers and actively contribute to supporting the family financially.
• Both partners mutually agree to share domestic chores and responsibilities.
• The wife’s role in homemaking is subordinate to her career, reflecting a more balanced division of labor and responsibilities within the household

Question 1.2

Describe the relationship between the family and public administration by indicating how the family is the starting point for public administration.

Describe why a family is regarded as a starting point of public  administration

Answer:

The family serves as the cornerstone of public administration, playing a fundamental role in shaping an individual’s interaction with society and government services. Therefore the family serves as the primary training ground for individuals to become responsible, socially engaged citizens. This relationship is evident in various aspects laid out below:

Welfare Services:

The family acts as a primary point of contact for welfare services. For instance, when an elderly family member requires care or a child falls ill, it is within the family that the initial caregiving and support are provided.

Protection:

Families are the first line of defense in protecting their members and property. Parents, as guardians, ensure the safety and security of their children and possessions, instilling a sense of security and trust in the broader community.

Status Symbol:

Family membership serves as an early status symbol for an individual, providing them with a cultural and social background that influences their identity and interactions within society.

Skill Development:

Families are responsible for imparting essential life skills to children. These skills enable individuals to navigate their communities effectively, fostering self-sufficiency and adaptability.

Interpersonal Relationships:

Within the family, children learn the art of building interpersonal relationships. These relationships, formed at an early age, shape their perceptions of whether the world is a friendly or hostile place.

Introduction to Community Groups:

Parents introduce children to various community groups and their characteristics. This exposure helps individuals understand and engage with different segments of society.

Values and Ethics:

Families instill values, moral standards, and behavioral norms in children. These ethical foundations guide individuals in distinguishing right from wrong and contribute to their moral development.

Responsibility and Citizenship:

Families prepare individuals to accept responsibilities within their communities. By teaching the importance of contributing to the well-being of the group, families lay the groundwork for responsible citizenship.