Ethics is nothing but the science of morals. In the context of home or family it is the professional standard of conduct in accordance with the approved moral behavior by the family and society. These are the guiding steps in forming a life style in the changing world. Ethics of any individual or the family depends upon the values they hold and cherish in their life. Management is accepted as a profession and every one knows the importance in the individual and group life for a satisfactory living. There is a need for code of conduct for the healthy living environment. This is nothing but the ethics in the family life. Seetharaman et, al, (2003) have addressed management for an healthy and comfortable life style. They are.
Unbiased decisions: Taking unbiased decisions, without any favoritism is at most essential in home management. It is important to take democratic decisions to improve performance, efficiency and efficacy. This will help each family member to be part of every decision and develop themselves to their maximum best. The decision maker will always prove to be best and right.
No. Gender bias: A differentiation is the most unethical practices. In a family both boys and girls should be treated similarly and provide equal opportunities, resources and motivation to all family members. The gender bias is the most common feature in Indian families, which need to be addressed through education.
Respect for tradition and culture: the management activities usually have the cultural bias even though it is universal. Similarly every family has its own traditions and customs which are value based and form the personal identity. Hence, every family should respect others customs and traditions. The customs and traditions that are essential for healthy living should be passed on to the younger generation through the management process, as they give direction for life and hold the life style.
Ethical Attitude: It is the day- to- day behaviour of each family member and the family as a whole, which makes the family and social living a pleasure. This will help the community living problem free.
Example: Traffic jam on roads is caused due to the impatience of one person to follow the traffic rules. Hence following simple unwritten rules in the family by all members will make the living together problem free and pleasurable. Ex: Getting early from bed. Having breakfast and dinner together. Taking decisions in consultation with other member.
Ethical attitude can be developed by simply following the laws and internalizing the behaviors as their positive attitudes.
Community and social living:
Man is a social animal and lives in a society where people have diverse views and practices. Harmony in community and social living can be achieved only by ethical behaviour. A home manager’s contribution in developing the family members is very important and it ensures social and community wellbeing and harmony.
Social Responsibility:
All of us as individuals and as a family use the community facilities like roads, commercial areas, parks, hospital etc. it is the responsibility of every one to voice against the misuse or distraction of these facilities. Ex: Destruction of parks, roads etc. Simply creating awareness and a sense of responsibility among family members is the essential ethical issue.
Thus these ethical issues are very important in realizing the goals of the family and help in harmonious social and community living.
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