4. On the basis of Authority:

Patriarchal Family: The family in which all the power remains in the hands of patriarch or father is known as patriarchal family. In other words in this type of family power or authority is vested in the hands of eldest male member of the family who is supposed to be the father. He exercises absolute power or authority over the other members of family. He owns family property.

After his death authority transferred to the eldest son of family. In this family descent is known through father line. In this type of family wife after marriage come to reside in his husband’s house. Joint family system among the Hindus is a fine example of patriarchal family.

Matriarchal family: This type of family is just opposite of patriarchal family. In this family power or authority rests on the eldest female member of the family especially the wife or

mother. She enjoy absolute power or authority over other members of the family. She owns all the family property. In this family descent is known through the mother.

Headship is transferred from mother to the eldest daughter. Husband remain subordinate to his wife in a matriarchal family. This type of family is found among the Nayars of Kerala and among the Garo and Khasi tribes of Assam.