in times gone by and still so in some cultures and communities . . .stability and nurturance to a large extent emanate from the extended family. There's many a youngster whose primary influence and safest harbor was a grandparent.

I think a lot of the modern "ills" of society (in the "western" world at least ) can be laid at the feet of the nuclear family when contrasted to the extended family. The nuclear family has only truly existed for a few generations - because prior to that the **NORM** was extended family. Most families had relatives living with them or very near them or (if wealthy) had staff that assisted in the raising of the children. If they did not, it was far more acceptable prior to WWII for neighbors and friends to help with child-rearing, discipline, etc. Godparents in many cases did a great deal of nurture.