What is the traditional family structure defined as?

The traditional family structure is best defined as the nuclear family structure, which typically consists of two parents (a mother and a father) and their biological or adopted children living together in one household. This model has historically been considered the foundational family unit in many societies. The nuclear family is often viewed as the ideal due to its simplicity and the direct caregiver relationships that it fosters.

In contrast, the extended family structure includes additional relatives beyond the immediate family, such as grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins, living together or in close connection, while single-parent families involve one parent raising one or more children. Childless couples represent a structure where a couple does not have children, which deviates from the traditional definition that includes children in the family unit. Therefore, the nuclear family structure most accurately embodies what is commonly understood as the traditional family model.