Repasts in the present-day family life

The German results of "Everyday eating in Europe: a four-country qualitative study of urban households (EEE4C)" have shown that, despite allegations of the contrary, family meals are not disappearing. Forty families with two working parents and at least one 13 to 16-year-old-child living in the region of Frankfurt/Giessen were questioned about eating habits. Family meals, accordingly, are of utmost importance to families as times of communication which are essential for socialization, esthetics and emotions. Meals are "family time" providing a forum and place of negotiations for family members. Meals are also occasions to experience the nearness and care of mothers. The jobs of food treatment, preparation and kitchen cleaning are still arranged in a traditional manner. Mothers are expected to successfully combine occupational and family activities.