Final answer:
The Navajo traditionally practiced matrilocal postmarital residence but have also adopted patrilocal and neolocal residences, reflecting variations due to economic and familial circumstances while maintaining strong matrilineal support systems.
Step-by-step explanation:
Among the Navajo, postmarital residence was traditionally expected to be matrilocal, meaning that a newly married couple would establish their new household with or near the bride's mother or the bride's mother's relatives. This practice is associated with matrilineal descent, which is a significant aspect of Navajo culture where descent and inheritance are traced through mothers and grandmothers. However, contemporary practices show variations such as patrilocal residence (living with or near the groom's father) and neolocal residence (establishing an independent household). These adaptations reflect the Navajo's response to various circumstances including economic needs and family dynamics. Regardless of these variations, the matrilineal family remains a strong support system during major life events for the Navajo, highlighting the flexible yet enduring nature of their kinship practices.