Postmodernism perspective of the family

Question 1

Gidden’s and Becks view of family

Answer 1

INDIVIDUALISM

• We have been freed and disembedded from the traditional roles and structures (religion) which means we are able to choose the family that meets our needs and wants at that point in our lives
• Gidden argues that this transformation has caused advancements such as the avaliability of contraception and female independence

Question 2

Stacey’s view of the family

Answer 2

• Greater freedom and choice has benefited women enabling them to free themselves from the patriarchal oppression and shape their family agreements around what works for them and their needs
• Stacey noted that a new family type (Divorce-Extended family) whose key members may include Ex-in laws, Ex partner and their new partner
  These members although no longer connected by blood or marriage will still help each other finanically and domestically

Question 3

Evaluation

Answer 3

Vannessa May: Beck and Gidden’s view of the individual is simply an idealised version of white middle class man

Carol Smart: Connected Thesis: People are social beings who live in a web connected, networks of relationships and personal histories which strongly influence and shape our range of options and choices