What does the term 'fictive kin' refer to?

The term 'fictive kin' refers to individuals who are considered family members not by blood or legal ties, but by emotional bonds, affection, and strong personal relationships. This concept highlights the importance of connections that people form outside of conventional family structures, recognizing that relationships of love and support can exist among people who may not share biological or legal connections.

Fictive kin often play significant roles in individuals' lives, providing support, care, and companionship that are akin to that of family. This could include close friends, neighbors, or someone who has been brought into one's family circles through various personal relationships. Acknowledging fictive kin illustrates a broader understanding of what constitutes a family in diverse social contexts where traditional definitions may not apply.