IELTS Writing Task 2. Please review my essay and give feedback.

In many nations, people in huge cities either live alone or in small family units, instead of in large, extended family groups. Is this a positive or negative trend?

In many big cities around the world, it is no longer uncommon when people opt to either live by themselves or with their nuclear family, rather than living in an extended family. In my opinion, this lifestyle brings more benefits than drawbacks.

On the one hand, there are several detrimental impacts of this way of life. First, when living alone, people will experience the feelings of loneliness and isolation. Compared to those who live in a big family, they can greatly lack the emotional support from their family members. Second, people who lead an independent life have to bear the weight of all household bills and responsibilities. For example, university students who live alone have to learn how to cook for themselves, do the laundry and work part-time jobs in order to cover the monthly bills. Finally, some old people who live in a small family struggle tremendously if they get sick while their children are busy with school or work and take little care for them.

However, I would argue that living alone or in a small family brings some beneficial effects. One of the most significant advantage is that people can become more independent and self-reliant. It means living alone can provide people with an opportunity to improve essential life skills such as decision making. Moreover, as different generations have different lifestyles, living alone or in a small family allows them the freedom to do things as they please. As a result, they can avoid most constant criticism and judgements from other family members.

In conclusion, it seems to me that despite several negative impacts, those who live alone or in a small family unit can benefit from this lifestyle.