In theory, there are three possible patterns of authority in families.
a. true
b. false

a. true

Explanation:

The answer is true.

In theory, there are three possible patterns of authorities in families. They can be categorized as :

1. Patrilineal

  Here the descended from the father's side has authority in the family.          Kinship is traced from father's side and property can be inherited form the father's side.

2. Matrilineal

   Here the descended from the mother's side has authority in the family.          Kinship is traced from mother's side and property can be inherited from the mother's side.

3. Bilateral

   Kinship is being traced through both father and mother and property can be inherited from either side of the family.

Thus it is seen that there is three patterns of authorities in families.

Thus the answer is True.

the above statement/question is (true);