Common cross cultural themes seen in marriages in industrialized and traditional societies include a marriage ceremony, gifts for the bride and groom, a celebration of the wedding to which guests are invited, and restrictions on marrying close relatives.
Sociologists view the family from different perspectives, such as an institution, a social group, a social system or a group (Young). They see it as one of society's main and most important social divisions, which swerves to socialize individuals to become productive members of society. One of the big challenges for the sociologist is the definition of a family, particularly since contemporary society is changing rapidly and family forms are increasing in number and some relatively new forms are emerging. The ideal of two biological parents and their children living in harmony does not present a very realistic framework for contemporary society, with its growing number of variant family forms. This was recognized at the Doha International Conference for the Family last year, when First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs noted that there are social challenges now due to the transformation in the traditional family structure and functions (Speech). He felt that women's entry into the workforce had impacted the family at several levels and had a positive impact on child rearing as a cooperative effort between family members, and said social services should support this effort.
"Speech by HE Sheikh Hamad Bin Jassem Bin Jabr Al-Thani First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs." 2004. 5 May 2005.
...