Diversity and transition of stepfamilies among the G|ui and Gǁana

Abstract

This paper examines how the nuclear family of G|ui and Gǁana, the two socio-culturally closely related hunter-gatherer groups of the San, has been (re)constructed and functioned since their resettlement in late 1990s. As with other hunter-gatherer groups, divorce and remarriage have been not uncommon among the G|ui/Gǁana. Extra-marital relationships, known as dzáã̄-kù , have also been semi-socially recognised. Consequently, the G|ui/Gǁana exhibit several stepfamily configurations. As in other San populations, the G|ui/Gǁana are known for their close mother–child relationships. However, it should be noted that non-maternal relatives have also been active participants in child-rearing. Children of stepfamilies are usually well informed about their origins and are not disconnected from their relatives, including divorced parents. The G|ui/Gǁana settlement established in late 1990s not only reduced group mobility, which had been characterised by fission and fusion of residential groups, but also led to a rapid increase in population density and fertility rates. Subsequently, the G|ui/Gǁana society has been modified in response to various difficulties. However, relationships with relatives, including divorced parents, continue to be an important social resource in this process. This article was published open access under a CC BY-ND licence: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/ .