SOC 201 - Sociology of the Family

 
Description
This course focuses on the sociological study of families. Students apply sociological theories and research methods to understand family life. Topics include the history of families and diverse family structures, mate selection, courting and marriage practices, parenting and child development and family dissolution and reformation. The social forces and practices shaping and shaped by family life are central to these analyses.

1. Explain socio-historical changes in the shape, meaning and functions of marriage and family life.
2. Analyze families and their dynamics from a variety of sociological theoretical perspectives.
3. Discuss the sociological research methods used to study families.
4. Articulate processes of child socialization and the roles parents and families play in that process.
5. Analyze interactions between the family and other social institutions including legal, education, religion, medical, economic and political systems.

1. Sociological theories and research methods for studying families
2. Marriage in historical and cultural forms
3. Mate selection, dating and courtship
4. Alternative family structures
5. Children and family life
6. Divorce and family dissolution
7. The relationship of families to other social institutions, including law, economy, education, medicine and politics

• Critical Thinking & Problem Solving
• Culture Society & Citizenship

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