Traditional Expectations vs Modern Reality
Spain's past reveals shocking expectations for women through La Guía, a manual given to teenage girls outlining how to be the "perfect wife." This included having dinner ready, looking beautiful at all times, and managing childcare - showing just how far Spanish society has progressed.
The Franco regime (1939-1975) stripped women of basic rights like voting and shaped an entire generation's relationship with authority. When democracy returned, younger Spaniards embraced freedom whilst older generations often remained tied to traditional religious values.
Economic challenges have completely reshaped family life. The 2008 financial crisis created massive unemployment, forcing families to rely on two salaries to survive. This means grandparents often become primary childcarers whilst parents work long hours.
Key insight: Spain's low birth rate creates serious economic problems - fewer working-age people means less tax revenue and fewer people to support an ageing population.
Marriage and relationships have evolved significantly. Young people marry later due to financial pressures, and since 2005, homosexual marriage has been legal. However, many couples struggle with Spain's expensive housing market and costly wedding traditions.