Perepõhine

Perepõhine is an Estonian adjective meaning "family-based" or "based on the family." It is used to describe approaches, systems, or analyses that treat the family as the primary unit of consideration rather than focusing on individuals or institutions alone.

Etymology: The compound is formed from pere meaning "family" and põhine meaning "to base (on)" with the common Estonian -ne adjective suffix, yielding a reading of "based on the family." The term appears in contemporary Estonian sociological and educational discourse and is found in both formal and informal contexts.

Usage and contexts: In discussions of social policy and welfare, a perepõhine lähenemine (family-based approach) emphasizes supporting the household and kinship networks to improve outcomes for children and dependents. In education and healthcare, perepõhine tugi (family-based support) describes services that engage family members as the primary sources of care and decision-making. In research, a perepõhine uurimus (family-based study) centers data and analysis on family units and their dynamics rather than on individuals in isolation.

Relation to other terms: Perepõhine is related to perekondlik (pertaining to the family) and perekondlikkus (family-ness), but it specifically signals an orientation or basis rooted in the family unit rather than a general association or characteristic.

Translation note: In English-language discussions, perepõhine is often rendered as "family-centered" or "family-based," though the precise wording may vary with context and the field of application.

See also: pere, perekond, family-centered care, kinship studies.