SOC 836 - Sociology of the Family

Credits: 3
Prerequisite: Graduate only.
Involves the sociological analysis of the family from a variety of theoretical viewpoints such as functionalism, conflict theory, exchange theory, symbolic interactionism, systems theory, and developmental theory. Special emphasis is placed on the contemporary American family. However, cross-cultural and historical comparisons are made, with the focal theme being the “decline of the family.” Specific topics covered include gender, the family in historical context, power relationships and family roles, parent-child interaction, marital satisfaction, marital disruption, and the interrelationships between race/ethnicity, social class, work roles, the family, and family policy.