The family structure in the district is of two types i.e., joint and nuclear. In urban areas people tend to live in a nuclear family system, while in rural areas they prefer to live in a joint family system. The reasons for the people to live in a nuclear family are mainly economic. People migrate to towns in search of jobs as individuals, and after marriage establish their independent families there. In rural areas, people have been living in clans for many generations as joint families. This system guarantees socio-economic protection to a group of people living together and provides the opportunity to help each other in case of any calamity. Generally there are three to four dwellings in a compound. The family pattern is patriarchal and male members exercise their authority in family affairs. The tribal chiefs and Sardars have full authority in decision making at community and tribal level. People obey their orders. In this social environment the old and disabled persons receive necessary care from the young while in return the latter get love, affection, and advice from their experienced elders, which is of immense psychological importance. In the joint family system the grandfather or the father is the head of the family. The family has always been the most important institution of the society of this region. It provides protection and security, recreation, education and religious practices to its members; it enables them to take part in the process of socialization. In fact, the family is a basic and vital unit of social organization in the district.

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