The Personal Life Perspective

Question 1

Part of the connectedness thesis says that we make choices within a ‘web of connectedness’. What does this include?

Answer 1

• a network of existing relationships and interwoven personal histories which strongly influence our range of opinions and choices in relationships

Question 2

The connectedness thesis emphasises the role of class and gender structures in which we are embedded which limits the kinds of relationships, identities and families we can create for ourselves. Give an example of this

Answer 2

• when a couple divorces, gender norms generally dictate that the women has custody. This may impact on their opportunity to begin a new relationship or work full time. In contrast, the man has greater freedom to start a new relationship/ second family. The man is generally better paid and works full time which also gives them greater freedom in relationships

Question 3

May argues that structural factors are not disappearing but are being reshaped. Give three examples of this

Answer 3

• religions are more tolerant, women have more opportunities, class doesn’t dictate family shape