What is the term for the family into which you are born?

The term "family of origin" refers to the family into which an individual is born and raised, encompassing biological parents and siblings. This concept is foundational in understanding an individual’s early relationships and influences. The family of origin significantly shapes a person's identity, values, and social behaviors, which can carry into their adult relationships.

In contrast, extended family refers to relatives beyond the immediate family, such as grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins, who may play a role in an individual's life but are not the primary unit of upbringing. An adoptive family is established when a child is legally brought into a family that is not their biological family, often leading to a significant emotional bond but differing in origin. A blended family is formed when one or both partners in a partnership have children from previous relationships, creating a new family dynamic. Understanding these distinctions is crucial in fields such as social work, psychology, and death care services, where family dynamics can impact decision-making during end-of-life scenarios.