本文主要是以排灣族的傳統社會結構作為研究對象，並採取文獻研究和部落耆老的深度訪談等方式來探討排灣族傳統社會的文化結構。而根據研究結果，排灣族傳統社會結構的精髓部分就是以各家族長嗣為基礎所延伸出來的貴族階層社會。通常，長嗣家的發展關係到所有餘嗣家族的盛衰，餘嗣不僅在家族祭儀上給以尊重，亦在必要時給以物資上的支援；反之，長嗣在義務上有主持家族生命禮俗與教助急難家族成員的責任，而這種以長嗣為家族核心的觀念正是排灣族社會結構的傳統文化。

This research paper aims at investigating the culture of Paiwan traditional social structure regarding to the literature review and depth interview with the superiors of Paiwan tribes. Results of the study show that the basis of the traditional aristocratic system in Paiwan tribes originated from firstborn child as inheritor of family. This system influences the development of all relatives. That is, the other younger brothers and sisters not only give their respect to the original family but also offer all necessary helps to honor their original family. The firstborn inheritor also has the duty to host the life rite for the relatives and gives them necessary supports in emergency situations.