Fathers usually tend the field whreas women work in their home compounds where they make nearly all the food and clothing for their families. With improved education and employment opportunities' family sizes may be reduced. Ther is a deep significance of the extended family and an emotional closeness and importance of the group as opposed to individualism. In some cities or provinces in Ethiopia it may be common for women to participate in the paid work force than others. Servants and extended family would be used to look after children.
Many people live in family compounds on the land they work rather than in large villages.
People may also belong to larger social groups which have particular significance for ceremonies and rituals associated with marriage and burrial.