The “standard family” is no longer standard — Changing households and the value of records

“A married couple and their children” — for a long time, this was considered the “standard family” in Japan. But the latest surveys show that this picture is no longer the standard.

How the data shows families changing

According to national surveys such as the Household Dynamics Survey, single-person households (people living alone) now make up a large share of all households, while households made up only of a couple and their children are becoming a minority. On top of the shift to nuclear families, more people are living alone, and the “shape of the family” has become far more diverse.

These changes are a natural part of how families evolve. At the same time, the smaller and more scattered households become, the more family memories struggle to be passed on across generations. Stories of grandparents and family history that were naturally handed down when living under one roof are now more easily cut off when family members live apart.

Even as its shape changes, the bond can be preserved

Even as family forms become more diverse, the wish to “preserve our family connections” does not change. In fact, now that more families live apart, a family record everyone can see at any time is more valuable than ever.

Family Storage is a service that lets you safely share family trees, photos and stories online, even with family members who live far away. The shape may change, but your family's bond can be preserved as a record.

* This article is a plain introduction to public statistics and surveys on changes in household composition.
References: National Institute of Population and Social Security Research, “Household Dynamics Survey” / Cabinet Office, White Paper on Gender Equality, “Changes in the Shape of the Family”