Culture and Family Well-Being: Exploring Cross-Cultural Similarities and Differences in Family Well-Being

Wellbeing is multifaceted construct, which encompasses physical, social and mental health. Family can be defined as a group of individuals bound together by marriage, blood or adoption, living together in a single home and interacting with one another in their social roles typically those of spouses, parents, children and siblings. Family has the primary responsibility in child development providing them resources and the caregiving environment. Accordingly, family is the main force behind fostering the development and wellbeing of children and thus, it is important to consider the quality of the family environment in which children are raised. The quality of the family environment not only affect children’s wellbeing and development but also well-being of other family members. Therefore, family wellbeing is important for children, parents and other members in the family setting. The main objective of this paper is to explore cross-cultural similarities and differences in family well-being. Additionally, it aims to examine the role of family functioning on family well-being and impact of negative experiences on children’s well-being and development. This research was based on secondary sources gathered using the narrative review method and limited to scholarly work related to cross-cultural similarities and differences in family well-being, children’s well-being and family functioning. The data was analyzed using thematic analysis. Findings suggest significant cross-cultural similarities and differences in family well-being and some factors like parenting that influence children’s well-being. The strength and the quality of family relationships and the capacity of a family to support, care for and nurture one another appear to have an impact on family functioning and well-being. Certain negative experiences that affect family functioning and the quality of parenting also influence family well-being. Understanding cross-cultural similarities and differences in family well-being and associated factors may help individuals learn how to strengthen the quality of family well-being.