Social change refers to the transformation or modification that takes place over time in the structure, institutions, relationships, values, beliefs, attitudes and patterns of behaviour of a society. Society is not static; it continuously changes because of developments in economic conditions, technology, politics, culture, education, population and human ideas. Social change may occur slowly over a long period or may take place rapidly due to major events and movements. Social change can be understood as a significant alteration in the established ways in which people live and interact with one another. Changes in family patterns, marriage, education, occupations, social institutions, political participation and cultural practices are examples of social change. For instance, the increasing participation of women in education and employment has brought changes in family relationships, gender roles and attitudes towards women's position in society. One important characteristic of social change is that it is