The Current Picture and Overall Trends of the Japanese Family Based on JGSS Cumulative Data 2000-2010

Abstract

By illustrating changes in the Japanese family and capturing the current picture based on the results of cumulative Japanese General Social Survey data, this article provides materials that help us discuss future directions. The overall trends between 2000 and 2010 were described by focusing on 14 areas. While swayed by an unstable job climate, both individuals and families suppress dissatisfaction and come to grips with reality. The degree of unemployment and contingent employment among the young has expanded, the percentage of unmarried people has increased, and unmarried adult children are more and more often living with their parents. A growing number of women of all ages have entered the labor force and the bottom of the M-shaped employment rates among women has become shallow. Following favorability towards socialization of livelihood security and care of the elderly, increasing numbers of people favor socialization of childrearing and education. The changes in employment among the young and women should have a strong impact on the Japanese family in the future, and thus the whole picture of reform of the taxation system, employment policy, and social welfare should gain increasing attention.