The traditional Chinese family
Traditionally the Chinese family system is one which is based on a patriarchal system.
It is centred around the oldest male in the family. In past cases this would be the grandfather but in more recent times with the traditional Chinese family has evolved from one which is an extended family down to a nuclear.
Unmarried daughters and sisters to the other play their role in helping their mothers take care of their siblings and the rest of the home. In the absence of the mother, the sister is expected to play all the roles previously held or maintained by the mother previously.