Personal life perspective

Question 1

Why does Smart use “personal life” over “Family”?

Answer 1

Personal life is more flexible because it goes beyond marriage and biological kin and allows for newer types of relationship

Whereas family is too often associated with the ideal or normal types

Question 2

What type of relationships does the personal life perspective look at?

Answer 2

Looks at relationships that individuals see as significant and gives a sense of identity, belonging and relatedness (pets, friends etc.).

these can be more important to the individual then the biological connections they have

Question 3

How does Misztal argue history can impact family?

Answer 3

Claims that throughout the individuals life course, their memories from childhood tend to shape their identities and decisions