Limited family diversity in Japan

Abstract

The objective of this chapter is to provide an overview of family forms and functions in Japan from a sociological perspective. The brief social, cultural, and historical backgrounds on the definition of family are introduced. Then, the current welfare policy and family-related demographic data are examined. Several selected family formation topics, including same-sex marriage, adoption, and medically assisted reproduction, are also briefly depicted. Finally, the limited family diversity as well as the seemingly resistant nature of Japanese society against the emerging forms of family, in view of the possible explanations, established form, and role of the family in the Japanese tradition, stemming from the cultural norm (e.g., Confucian familism) are explored. The chapter concludes with a brief discussion of two overarching themes that emerged and recommendations for future research and family policy in Japan.