The Changing Japanese Family

The Japanese family is shifting in fundamental ways, specifically in terms of attitudes towards family and societal relationships, and also the role of the family in society. Changing Japanese Family explores these significant changes which include an ageing population, delayed marriages, a fallen birth rate, which has fallen below the level needed for replacement, and a decline in three-generational households and family businesses.

The authors investigate these changes and the effects of them on Japanese society, whilst also setting the study in the context of wider economic and social changes in Japan. They offer interesting comparisons with international societies, especially with Southern Europe, where similar changes to the family and its role are occuring. This fascinating text is essential reading for those with an enthusiasm in Japanese studies but will also engage those with a concern in Japanese culture and society, as well as appealing to a readership with a wider interest in the sociology of the family.

Marcus Rebick is University Lecturer in the Japanese Economy at Oxford University and a fellow of St. Antony’s College. His research interests include labour economics, the Japanese economy, the economics of ageing and the economics of higher education.

Ayumi Takenaka is Assistant Professor of sociology at Bryn Mawr College and Research Associate of the Population Studies Center of the University of Pennsylvania. Her areas of research interest are international migration, ethnic and racial relations, social inequality and comparative Japanese studies.