FAMILY LIFE
There are some variations in family life among the ethnic groups of T &T and class differences do exist. Extended families are important in general. Siblings and extended family members traditionally live close to each other. This practice is less common in urban areas. Family members, however, maintain regular contact and get together for religious holidays and other festivals. Such gatherings are frequently accompanied by lots of cooking, music and dancing.

Children are highly valued in T & T culture. Many families, however, exercise strict discipline. Extended families are also active in raising children. In some groups children see themselves as part of a community, whose members are concerned about their well-being. The influence of western culture has caused some of this firm discipline and supervision to change.
Most children live with their parents until they are ready to marry. At this time, parents become acquainted with the prospective spouse and the spouse's family.

When young people move out to live on their own, there is still a strong bond of responsibility among members of the family which may include economic support.

Did you know?

Trinidad has one of the world's most multi-ethnic populations. Offspring of African and European parents are seen culturally as Black Trinidadians. Some mixed race people are called French Creoles although many families bear Spanish, Portuguese, Scottish and English names.