In some countries, increasing numbers of people live alone.
What do you think are the reasons for this? Do you think it
is a positive or negative trend?
The living patterns of the world are changing in some
countries. Instead of living with family members, more people are now choosing
to live on their own. This trend is more obvious in Western countries where
citizens have different priorities and ways of living.
Firstly, living alone is a sign of independence. Some people
might want to feel responsible for their lives, have their own space, live
their lives how they want to and pay their own bills. As a person gets older
they might not wish to live with their parents anymore, particularly if they
have already had the experience of living away from home at university.
Secondly, it seems that people have become more demanding of others. They are
not willing to compromise or accept other people’s flaws easily. Similarly, they
might have other priorities such as focusing on their career rather than having
a family. Thirdly, living alone might also be a transition period for an
individual. They may be going through a divorce, between jobs etc.
Living alone may isolate individuals, making them lonely or
depressed. People are social beings and they need support, companionship, love
and care. These aspects can be enhanced by living with others. Unfortunately
living alone is a characteristic of living in large cities. Studios, bedsits
and one-bedroom flats also support this trend. What is more, many cultures
support the family unit and live with their extended family or in a large
household. So if someone decides they prefer to live alone, they may distance
themselves from their family and culture.
All in all, people choose to live alone according to their
circumstances and stage of life they are at. Although this may be lonely and
isolating for some, others might enjoy the freedom and independence it offers.
Question taken from Richmond Practice Tests for
IELTS p. 38
No comments:
Post a Comment