Because of Swedish equality and social democracy the family dynamic in Sweden might look quite different to other countries. In the average Swedish family both parents work and chores are divided equally amongst the family members. Compared to other countries where women stay at home to take care of the children, this is very unusual in Sweden unless the mother is on parental leave. [1]
In Sweden, family is important, but independence and equality is valued equally high. Because of the Swedish welfare system and structure, we do not need to rely on family to care for the young and old. For the first few years of life, most children go to kindergarten, and since school is compulsory in Sweden, children start school at the age of 5 or 6 [2].
It is unusual for elderly parents to move in with their children, instead they move to caring facilities provided by the government. Compared to for example China where multi-generational living is the norm. [3]
Although Swedes do value family, the family structure here looks different than in many other countries. There is no stark hierarchy in the family, instead parents and children are seen as equals. Because of our social welfare system we can afford to be more independent, but although it might look different to yours, family in Sweden is just as important as everywhere else.
