Family: individualisation thesis and 'love':

Question 1

What are some policies that has increased individualisation?

Answer 1

• Sex Discrimination 1975.
• Equal Pay Act 1970.
• Equality Act 2010.

Question 2

What does Bauman, 2011, suggest about change?

Answer 2

That in a world of growing uncertainty, individualisation and constant change, human bonds are weak and individuals are constantly searching for security.

Question 3

What did Beck and Gernsheim, 2002, argue the growth of individualisation is down too?

Answer 3

Growth of individualisation is due to the development of modern medicine e.g. contraception. Now sexuality and reproduction don’t have to be linked. This has reduced women’s financial dependant on men. So marriage and family has lost their significance.

Question 4

Define ‘confluent love’:

Answer 4

• Idea that love is active and conditional.
• Partners need to actively build trust and emotional intimacy.
• It is a condition in the sense that it lasts if both partners meets each others needs.
• It is in opposition to the idea of traditional, forever love.

Question 5

Define ‘pure relationship’:

Answer 5

• Meets each others need.

- It is done until it is no longer worthwhile.

Question 6

What did Giddens say about love?

Answer 6

“marry for the sake of love, engage in an endless cycle of hoping, regretting and trying again.”