Topic 1 - what is family? Flashcards
Introduction?
Sociologists traditionally defined family as a nuclear unit of heterosexual parents and their biological or adopted children. However, this view is evolving to emphasize emotional relationships and chosen connections among individuals. Modern definitions focus on the close interactions and emotional bonds that characterize familial relationships.
Traditional sociological view of the family?
In the 1930s, functionalist sociologists argued that families are vital for societal survival, outlining their benefits for individuals and society. They promoted the idea of the ideal family as a heterosexual couple with children, which has shaped UK family policy and led to perceptions that this family structure is superior to others.
Changing sociological views of the family?
In the late 1900s, arguments emerged that traditional families, particularly patriarchal structures, oppressed individuals, especially women, a view amplified by the feminist movement in the 1970s. As family patterns evolved, Western (1991) noted that many people now prefer “families of choice,” highlighting a shift away from traditional forms. Consequently, definitions of family should prioritize emotional connections.
Ethnography and family structure?
In the 1950s, Michael Young and Peter Wilmot conducted a significant ethnographic study of family life in Bethnal Green, London. Their work, published in 1957, explored social attitudes and relationships within families and kinship in East London.
Ethnography?
The research by Young and Wilmot involved direct observation and participation to understand how families interpret their social world, primarily documenting their lived experiences rather than collecting statistical data. Their findings challenged functionalist assumptions, revealing that working-class Londoners often lived in extended families, with close ties and significant support among women for caregiving tasks. Similar research by Charles, Davies, and Harris in Swansea in the early 2000s emphasized the importance of female relationships and found that nuclear families were only a temporary aspect of people’s lives. It also highlighted that many individuals without partners or children still experienced complex family arrangements due to marriage and remarriage.
Family def?
it was usually defined in terms of the nuclear family, i.e., heterosexual parents and their children.
These may be linked by blood, adoption, or the law.
However, this definition has changed, as families are composed of groups of people sharing close interactions.
Kinship def?
this refers to the patterns of relationships and the sense of duty, that people feel towards those they see as family.
These can vary from culture to culture.
Household def?
it refers to the people who share a house and facilities; these people may or may not be related For example - a servant may be part of a household, not the family.
Extended family def?
it refers to the people who surround parents and children example, grandparents, aunts , uncles, and cousins.
In some traditional working class areas and in some Asian heritage families?
extended families may share a home or live close together.
