Redefining family dynamics: An analysis of caregiver–child relationships and family functioning in matrilineal mosuo families and a comparison with patrilineal families.

OBJECTIVES: The Mosuo, a matrilineal ethnic group from Southwest China, are known for their unique family structure, characterized by maternal kin-based inheritance and the "Sese" practice of dual-residence marriage. Children are primarily raised within the maternal family, with males having caregiving roles toward their sister's offspring rather than their biological children. This study examined Mosuo children's attachment networks with multiple caregivers and explored their psychological perceptions of fathers and maternal uncles while also assessing family functioning, compared with patrilineal groups. METHOD: = 14.05). RESULTS: Mothers and grandmothers are central in the attachment networks of Mosuo children, unlike in other groups that prioritize mothers and fathers. Mosuo children reported lower father presence but gave higher scores to maternal uncle presence compared with the other groups. Notably, no significant difference was found between father and uncle scores among the Mosuo, a contrast not seen in other groups that favor fathers. While Mosuo family functions generally scored lower than Han families, they did not lag in communication, emotional responsiveness, or involvement. CONCLUSION: Family structure uniquely influences the networks between children and caregivers across various sociocultural contexts. However, families may differ in the roles assigned within the family and in their approach to problem solving. They can, however, variably adapt their own styles of affective interaction. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved).