【大学受験対策】英語長文読解問題54｜311語＋和訳・解答解説

In both Japan and the United States, the concept of “family” plays a central role in people’s lives. However, the way people define and experience family life can differ significantly between the two cultures. These differences are shaped by history, values, and societal expectations.

In Japan, the traditional family model, known as ie, emphasized a hierarchical and collective structure. Historically, the eldest male held authority, and the family was expected to function as a unit, often passing down property and responsibility through generations. Although modern Japan has shifted toward more nuclear families, the sense of obligation to parents and ancestors remains strong. Adult children, especially the eldest sons, are often expected to care for aging parents, and family ties are closely linked to duty rather than emotional expression.

In contrast, American families tend to emphasize individualism and personal choice. While strong family bonds exist, children are generally encouraged to become independent at a younger age. It is common for young adults to leave home in their late teens or early twenties, and aging parents often live separately, sometimes in retirement communities or care homes. Emotional openness is also more openly expressed; saying “I love you” to family members is natural in the U.S., whereas in Japan such expressions may be less frequent or more indirect.

That said, both cultures are evolving. In Japan, more young people are questioning traditional roles, and in the U.S., there is growing interest in multigenerational living. Technology, globalization, and demographic shifts are reshaping the meaning of family in both countries. Still, underlying values—duty in Japan and independence in the U.S.—continue to influence expectations and behavior.

Understanding these cultural differences can help foster empathy and communication, especially in an increasingly connected world. By recognizing that family can be defined in multiple ways, we can better appreciate the richness of diverse traditions and the complexity of human relationships.

Q1. Which statement accurately reflects the traditional Japanese ie structure?

1. Property inheritance was rotated equally among all adult siblings.
2. Emotional openness was prioritized over formal duty to family elders.
3. Eldest sons were expected to care for elderly parents.
4. Individual ambitions often outweighed collective responsibilities in household decisions.

Q2. What recent development is highlighted as influencing family arrangements in the United States?

1. More households are exploring multigenerational living arrangements for relatives.
2. Young adults increasingly avoid living with any family after college.
3. Technology has completely replaced face-to-face communication within American homes.
4. Traditional roles for Japanese elders now dominate American family planning.

Q3. Which of the following assertions is NOT supported by the article?

1. Family remains a central social institution in both examined nations.
2. Acknowledging diverse family models can improve cross-cultural understanding worldwide.
3. American parents often encourage children to pursue early independence.
4. Japanese teenagers routinely relocate abroad to escape traditional familial duties.