Urbanization, Shifting Family Structure, and Changing Lifestyles in Kageshwori Manohara Municipality

Abstract

Kageshwori Manohara Municipality is one of the rapidly growing urban areas experiencing high population growth, migration and infrastructure development. This study examines the role of urbanization, shifting family structure and changing lifestyles, focusing on current trends in urbanization, family structure, occupation, social relationships, daily activities, food habits and housing patterns. A descriptive research design was used. Primary data were collected through questionnaires, interviews and field observations. Secondary data were obtained from books, journals, and related publications. A convenient sampling method was applied, and 100 respondents were selected from different ward. Data were analyzed using Likert-scale questionnaires and simple statistical tools. The findings show that urbanization has changed the social structure and lifestyle of local people. Joint family systems are declining, while nuclear family systems are increasing. Agriculture is being replaced by non agriculture sectors. People's lifestyles have become modernized with changes in housing patterns, food habits, technology use and daily activities. Urbanization has improved infrastructure, education, healthcare, communication, and employment opportunities. However, it has also created many problems. Therefore, the municipality should improve waste management systems and introduce land-use and zoning policies to protect disappearing farmland.