Today family members eat fewer meals together. Why is this? Is this a positive or negative trend?

In the present, with the advance of globalization and technology, people have become increasingly busy with plenty of

activities

and because of

this

, they tend to have fewer meals with their

families

in comparison with the past.

Although

some

families

strive to change

this

situation,

this

habit has become popular in our society.

First

and foremost, one of the main reasons for

this

current situation is the presence of hectic schedules presented in our fast-paced world. A part of society works in a double workload resulting in a scarcity of

time

.

Moreover

, most students have extra

activities

of the regular period at school and because of

this

the moments with family to have lunch is reduced.

For instance

, according to international research published by Harvard University, in the

last

ten years, 70% of traditional

families

do not have at least a meal with all members.

Secondly

, it is noticeable that the preparation of meals requires sufficient

time

,

therefore

, most

families

would rather spend

this

time

with other

activities

more pleasurable

instead

of cooking. Take a survey carried out by The New York as an example where 60% of people prefer to spend their leisure

time

in outdoor

activities

, 30% of them demonstrated interest in watching movies or reading books and only 10% would rather appreciate cooking.

Finally

,

this

current trend demonstrates to be negative progress since

this

way individuals have been alone, without companionship which can lead to mental health disorders.

Furthermore

, the lack of contact with family members may promote a weak bond among individuals.

For example

, since the outbreak of coronavirus, the number of depression and anxiety due to lack of contact rises 45%.

In addition

, an ordinary meal with family may be a great opportunity so as to establish healthy relationships. In conclusion, nowadays many individuals have more likelihood to have meals alone due to the overwhelming of work and absence of leisure

time

,

however

, it is healthy and recommended the presence of relatives, siblings, and friends in our life in order to boost our self-esteem and

also

to build better humans.