9 Things Families Shared in the ’80s That Would Raise Eyebrows Now
The 1980s were a different world for families. Life felt simpler, but many things that seemed normal back then would get strange looks today. Technology was limited, privacy was rare, and safety rules were looser. If you grew up in the ’80s, you probably remember sharing things with your family that would make people pause now. Looking back, it’s clear how much times have changed. Understanding these differences can help us see how family life has evolved and why some habits faded away.
Here are nine things families shared in the ’80s that would raise eyebrows now.
1. One Landline Phone for Everyone
In the ’80s, most families had a single landline phone. It usually sat in the kitchen or living room, and everyone used it. There was no privacy. If you wanted to talk to a friend, you hoped your parents or siblings wouldn’t pick up the other line or listen in. Today, almost every family member has a personal smartphone. The idea of sharing one phone—and having your conversations interrupted—feels outdated. Kids now expect privacy, and parents often want to keep tabs on who their children are talking to. The shift to personal devices has changed how families communicate and set boundaries.
2. One Bathroom for the Whole Family
Many homes in the ’80s had just one bathroom. Everyone shared it, no matter how many people lived in the house. Morning routines were a juggling act. Someone was always knocking on the door, asking you to hurry up. Now, most new homes have at least two bathrooms, and some have one for every bedroom. Sharing a single bathroom seems inconvenient and even unsanitary to many people today. The change reflects higher expectations for comfort and personal space.
3. Hand-Me-Down Clothes—No Questions Asked
Hand-me-downs were a fact of life. Older siblings’ clothes went to the younger ones, and sometimes even cousins or neighbors got in on the action. Kids wore whatever fit, even if it was out of style or a little worn. Today, there’s more focus on personal style and self-expression. Many parents buy new clothes for each child, and kids are more likely to speak up if they don’t like what they’re given. The rise of fast fashion and online shopping has made it easier to get affordable new clothes, but it’s also created more waste.
4. Sharing a Bed or Bedroom
It was common for siblings to share a bedroom, and sometimes even a bed. Space was tight, and families made do. Sleepovers with siblings were normal, and privacy was limited. Today, many kids have their own rooms, and sharing a bed is rare outside of vacations or emergencies. Parents now see personal space as important for a child’s development. The shift reflects changing ideas about comfort, privacy, and what kids need to thrive.
5. One TV, One Remote, One Schedule
Families gathered around a single TV. There was one remote, and whoever held it had the power. You watched what was on, when it was on. If you missed your show, you waited for a rerun. Now, streaming services let everyone watch what they want, when they want, often on their own devices. Family TV time still exists, but it’s less common. The idea of fighting over the remote or planning your night around a show seems old-fashioned.
6. Family Computer in a Shared Space
If your family had a computer, it was in a common area. Everyone used it for homework, games, or work. There was little privacy, and parents could easily see what you were doing. Now, laptops, tablets, and smartphones are personal. Kids often use devices in their rooms, and parents have to work harder to monitor screen time and online activity. The change has made privacy easier but also raised concerns about safety and supervision.
7. One Family Car
Most families had one car. Everyone shared it, and schedules had to be coordinated. If you needed a ride, you waited your turn or found another way. Today, it’s common for families to have two or more cars, especially in suburban areas. Teens often get their own vehicles. The shift reflects changes in work, school, and social life, as well as higher expectations for convenience.
8. Home-Cooked Meals—No Special Orders
Dinner was what was served. If you didn’t like it, you went hungry or made do with a peanut butter sandwich. Parents didn’t cater to picky eaters or make separate meals. Now, many families accommodate different tastes, allergies, and diets. It’s not unusual for parents to cook more than one meal or offer alternatives. The change reflects greater awareness of health, nutrition, and individual needs.
9. Family Photos—One Camera, One Album
Photos were taken on film, usually with one family camera. You waited weeks to see the pictures, and most ended up in a single album. Everyone shared the same memories, and there were no retakes or filters. Today, every family member has a camera in their pocket. Photos are instant, edited, and shared online. The way we capture and remember family moments has changed, and so has the sense of shared experience.
Looking Back: What We Shared, What We Gained
The things families shared in the ’80s shaped how people grew up. Sharing space, time, and resources taught patience, compromise, and creativity. But as technology and expectations changed, so did family life. Some changes brought more comfort and privacy. Others made it easier to connect but harder to share real moments. Remembering these old habits can help us appreciate what we have now—and maybe inspire us to bring back a little of that togetherness.
What’s something your family shared growing up that would seem odd today? Share your story in the comments.
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