From Joint Families to Apartment Living: A Cycle of Human Nature

In the past, Indian society was deeply rooted in the concept of joint families, where multiple generations lived under one roof, sharing responsibilities, resources, and emotional bonds. While this system provided security, support, and a strong sense of belonging, it was not without its flaws. Misunderstandings, power struggles, lack of privacy, and emotional conflicts were often part of daily life. Over time, these tensions prompted a shift toward nuclear families, where couples chose to live independently to avoid constant interference and maintain peace in their own smaller worlds.

The rise of nuclear families brought freedom, privacy, and space to make autonomous decisions. However, it also introduced loneliness, disconnection from extended family, and a growing burden of financial and domestic responsibilities. With increasing urbanization and rising living costs, people began gravitating towards apartment living — a lifestyle that offered both the privacy of nuclear families and the convenience of a shared community. Gated societies, residential complexes, and high-rises became the new norm, promoting a sense of security and access to shared resources.

Yet, ironically, this return to community-style living has slowly begun to mirror the very joint family dynamics people once tried to escape. Apartment complexes today have become mini joint families — complete with internal politics, gossip, interference, comparison, and power struggles. Residents argue over maintenance fees, parking spots, noise levels, and committee decisions. Beneath the surface of well-lit corridors and manicured lawns lie ego clashes, groupism, emotional triggers, and a constant struggle for control or dominance.

This cycle reflects a deeper truth: the problem is not where or how we live, but how we behave and interact. We keep altering physical structures — shifting from large homes to small flats, from communal homes to private units — hoping to escape conflict. But unless we address the emotional and psychological patterns within us, we keep recreating the same dysfunctions in every environment.

True community living — whether in a joint family or an apartment society — requires empathy, emotional maturity, boundaries, and mutual respect. Without these, no structure, however modern or well-planned, can foster peace. It is not the walls around us but the walls within us — built by ego, insecurity, and fear — that divide people.

As we move forward, the challenge is not just to build better homes, but to build better relationships. It is only when we learn to coexist consciously, that any form of living — be it joint, nuclear, or communal — can become truly fulfilling.

Written by Gulsha Begum