Families And Households (postmodernism)

Question 1

What is their view of the family?

Answer 1

They disagree with the premise that society is orderly and predictable and view sociological theories as merely meta narratives - big stories that are no longer able to explain diversity of personal relationships.

Question 2

What does postmodernists argue about society?

Answer 2

They argue that society is rapidly changing and therefore, full of uncertainties.

Question 3

What are the main features of Postmodernism?

Answer 3

Individualism, diversity and consumer choice

Question 4

Evidence that the ‘Postmodern’ society exists -

Answer 4

1. The disintegration of the traditional family
2. The growing diversity of households
3. The personal relationships in which people choose to live

Question 5

How do postmodernists explain the decline of traditional families?

Answer 5

They argue people no longer feel tied to traditional ideas and expectations. Evidence for this includes:
Rising divorce rates
Cohabitation
Step families
Gay couples
Multiple partners
Births outside of marriage
This means that people live their lives more flexible now.