The topic of adult children living with their parents has become increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 examinations, particularly since 2019. This trend reflects growing global concerns about changing family dynamics and economic pressures affecting young adults. Based on analysis of past IELTS exams, this topic has appeared in various forms, most commonly asking about reasons and societal impacts.
Young adults continuing to live with parents becoming global trend
Analyzing the Task 2 Question
In many countries, young adults are choosing to live with their parents for a longer time instead of moving out to live independently. What are the main reasons for this trend and what impact does it have on families and society?
This question requires:
- Discussing main reasons for the trend
- Analyzing impacts on both family and societal levels
- Providing a balanced response with clear examples
Band 8.5 Sample Essay
The phenomenon of adult children remaining in their parents’ homes has become increasingly common globally, driven by various socioeconomic factors and resulting in significant implications for both families and society at large.
The primary reasons for this trend are predominantly economic and social. The soaring cost of housing, particularly in urban areas, makes it financially challenging for young adults to afford independent living. Additionally, extended periods of higher education and mounting student debt force many to postpone financial independence. Social factors also play a crucial role, as changing cultural attitudes have made it more acceptable for adults to live with their parents, especially in Asian and Mediterranean societies where family bonds are traditionally stronger.
This living arrangement has complex implications for both families and society. At the family level, it can strengthen intergenerational relationships and provide mutual support systems, with young adults helping aging parents while benefiting from financial security. However, it may also create tensions regarding privacy and independence. Societally, this trend has led to delayed marriage rates and lower birth rates, potentially affecting demographic balance. Moreover, it has influenced housing market dynamics and consumption patterns, as multi-generational households often have different spending priorities.
In conclusion, while economic necessities and evolving social norms have made this arrangement more common, its impacts are multifaceted and require careful consideration by policymakers and society.
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
Nowadays, many young people choose to stay with their parents longer than before. This essay will discuss the main reasons and effects of this situation.
There are several reasons why young adults live with their parents. First, house prices and rent are very expensive in many cities, so young people cannot afford to live alone. Also, many young people study longer in university and don’t have jobs yet. Some people also stay with parents because they want to save money for the future.
This situation affects families and society in different ways. For families, it can be good because parents and children can help each other. Parents can save money on living costs, and children can take care of their parents. But sometimes there are problems when adults want more freedom. For society, this trend means fewer new houses are needed, and young people marry later.
In conclusion, economic problems are the main reason for this trend, and it has both positive and negative effects on families and society.
Analysis of Band Scores
Band 8.5 Essay Analysis:
- Sophisticated vocabulary and complex structures
- Clear organization with cohesive devices
- Well-developed ideas with specific examples
- Balanced analysis of causes and effects
- Natural academic tone throughout
Band 6.5 Essay Analysis:
- Basic but clear vocabulary
- Simple but accurate sentence structures
- Main ideas present but less developed
- Limited use of complex expressions
- Some repetition in language
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- soaring (adj) /ˈsɔːrɪŋ/ – rising rapidly
- intergenerational (adj) /ˌɪntəˌdʒenəˈreɪʃənl/ – between different generations
- multifaceted (adj) /ˌmʌltɪˈfæsɪtɪd/ – having many different aspects
- demographic (adj) /ˌdeməˈɡræfɪk/ – relating to population statistics
- consumption patterns (n) /kənˈsʌmpʃən ˈpætənz/ – ways in which people use goods and services
- socioeconomic (adj) /ˌsəʊsioʊˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk/ – relating to social and economic factors
- postpone (v) /pəˈspəʊn/ – delay something
- mutual support (n) /ˈmjuːtʃuəl səˈpɔːt/ – help given to each other
Consider practicing with these similar topics:
- Impact of multi-generational living on elderly care
- Housing affordability for young professionals
- Changing family structures in modern society
Share your practice essays in the comments for feedback and discussion.
