Name Anibal Hernandez Date July 7, 2020 Course English Compo

Name Anibal Hernandezdate July 7 2020course English Composition Ii

Family is defined in the Oxford Dictionary as “a group consisting of one or two parents and their children” (Dictionary, n.d). This is the first thing that comes to an individual's mind when it comes to the word "family." Society often defines family as blood relations, but the concept extends beyond genetics. Family includes people with whom an individual shares a deep, unbreakable, and unwavering bond. In general, many definitions portray family as a group of people living together, sharing genetic traits, and bearing responsibilities toward each other. Typically, family roles include parents, children, siblings, and other relatives, all sharing relatively similar genetic makeup. However, for many, family is also about meaningful bonds with individuals outside of biological kinship.

The need for family is among the most fundamental human necessities, crucial for well-being. Various cultures and religions impose responsibilities relating to family due to intrinsic biological and social factors. Biologically, humans are wired to care for and support their kin, ensuring protection and assistance throughout life’s endeavors. Socially, family serves as a sign of identity; children are often identified by their paternal names and expected to uphold familial reputation. Thus, family is essential for individual survival and societal functioning.

Nevertheless, the reality for some individuals is starkly different, with many lacking the support of a traditional family. According to the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption, an estimated 443,000 orphans are recorded nationwide, with approximately 123,000 actively waiting for adoption (Kuligowski, 2019). Many children are disowned by their families due to abuse, neglect, or dissension, leaving them without the familial safety net. Multiple reasons contribute to familial disconnection, yet the fundamental need for a sense of belonging remains. Consequently, the concept of family must extend beyond mere biological ties to include those who provide emotional support, stability, and care.

Adding to this expanded view, friends also play a vital role in a person’s life and can be regarded as family, especially those with whom deep trust has been established. Friends who consistently support and help through life's challenges can have a profound influence on mental and physical health. Such individuals often go beyond casual friendship, offering support akin to family. For example, a close friend who acts as a protector, advisor, or confidant fulfills roles traditionally associated with familial relationships. This bond highlights how emotional support and shared experiences can forge familial-like connections.

Moreover, mentors and teachers are also integral members of an individual’s extended family. Those who guide, educate, and mentor—be it a teacher, a professional leader, or a skilled tradesperson—contribute significantly to a person’s personal development and success. As long as their influence leaves a lasting, positive impact and the individual perceives them as an important part of their life, such figures can rightly be considered family. Their roles often encompass imparting vital skills, life lessons, and moral guidance that shape an individual’s future.

Additionally, the companionship of animals further broadens the definition of family. Many people adopt pets, forming strong emotional bonds with their furry friends. Pets provide comfort, a sense of purpose, and responsibility, which significantly improves mental health and emotional stability. These animals do not judge or cause drama and often serve as unwavering sources of affection and companionship. The bond with pets often resembles familial love, illustrating that family transcend’s biological connections.

Collectively, these relationships demonstrate that family extends beyond biological ties to encompass individuals and animals that offer emotional fulfillment and support. The world's complex social fabric drives humans to form meaningful bonds with like-minded people, benefactors, or even animals, fulfilling emotional needs that biological family sometimes cannot. This acknowledgment of diverse familial relationships is important, especially for those who lack traditional family structures or seek additional sources of love and support.

The significance of this expanded view of family lies in recognizing multiple forms of human connection that support survival and well-being. Research indicates that social bonds are critical for mental health, resilience, and longevity (Holt-Lunstad et al., 2010). Understanding and embracing these multifaceted relationships foster a more inclusive and supportive society. It also encourages societal recognition for non-traditional family structures, leading to better psychological and social outcomes for all individuals.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the concept of family must be redefined to include all individuals and beings that provide meaningful emotional support and companionship. While biological ties are significant, they do not encompass the full spectrum of familial relationships. Friends, mentors, teachers, and pets all contribute profoundly to an individual’s sense of belonging and stability. Recognizing and valuing these diverse relationships fosters a more understanding and compassionate society, acknowledging that family is ultimately about the bonds and support systems that sustain us through life's journey.

References

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• Kuligowski, S. (2019, April 15). Retrieved from Adoption.com
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• American Psychological Association. (2019). The Importance of Pets in Human Lives. Retrieved from https://www.apa.org