Challenges and Strengths of Ghanaian Families in Contemporary Society: A Counselling Perspective

Abstract

This study examines the impact of economic pressures, urbanisation, altering gender roles, and technological influences on evolving family structures and ties. Guided by Cultural Relational Theory (CRT), it utilised an interpretive phenomenological approach with semi-structured interviews to understand the altering of family roles in 19 individuals in rural and urban households. The findings suggest that financial strains induce emotional stress and family disputes. Aside from this, altering roles undermines family resilience. Both phenomena generate economic urbanisation and migration implications. In instances, where caregiving frameworks are compromised and geographically reduced, emotional proximity permeates family cohesion. Though the gendering of tasks may facilitate equitable work allocation, it concurrently induces stress, particularly when women face parenting penalties while maintaining employment. Family cohesion through properly applied technology and social networks for distant communication could strengthen familial relationships by integrating isolated individuals and enriching face-to-face connections. Thus, this study highlights the necessity for relationship adaptability, collaborative activities, and culturally relevant counselling solutions to address the identified issues. While providing significant insights into the unique aspects of familial concerns, the study advocates for research advancement through more diverse methodologies and sample size inclusion to substantiate the findings and reinforce the reasoning.