Theories are ways to look at things that attempt to explain why things are the way they are. There are 3 main theory families in sociology. They are:
Structural-Functionalism Theory – This theory says that there are social structures or institutions, like education, government, religion or the family, and these structures all have functions. The function of the family includes things like socializing children, controlling sexual exclusiveness, sharing finances, or providing emotional support. You have probably heard about “dysfunctional families”, meaning that they are not adhering to the standards that society deems most functional.
Conflict Theory – This theory holds that conflict is a normal part of life to be addressed. How we handle it impacts our lives. There are some people in families who hold more power than others. Imbalance in power can make family members unhappy. Domestic violence, child abuse, verbal aggression, how decisions are made, how money is handled, how people deal with each other’s extended families or friends are all areas where we see conflict become troublesome. Learning how to respectfully handle conflict is important for the preservation of society or families.
Symbolic Interaction Theory – This theory group says that the way we interact with each other is symbolic about how we feel or the messages we send. A smile is a symbol of affection, a frown is one of disapproval. We want to get a “good” present for our birthday that makes us feel special, and if someone forgets our birthday or doesn’t do much for it, we may feel like they really don’t care. This is a fascinating theory group because it focuses on everyday interactions.
In this module, look at the links/materials and write an essay about how you see these different theories impacting families that you are familiar with. This essay should be around 3 pages double spaced. Have one page per theory. Thanks. See the instructions for submissions.
Theories are ways to look at things that attempt to explain why things are the way they are. There are 3 main theory families in sociology. They are:
Structural-Functionalism Theory – This theory says that there are social structures or institutions, like education, government, religion or the family, and these structures all have functions. The function of the family includes things like socializing children, controlling sexual exclusiveness, sharing finances, or providing emotional support. You have probably heard about “dysfunctional families”, meaning that they are not adhering to the standards that society deems most functional.
Conflict Theory – This theory holds that conflict is a normal part of life to be addressed. How we handle it impacts our lives. There are some people in families who hold more power than others. Imbalance in power can make family members unhappy. Domestic violence, child abuse, verbal aggression, how decisions are made, how money is handled, how people deal with each other’s extended families or friends are all areas where we see conflict become troublesome. Learning how to respectfully handle conflict is important for the preservation of society or families.
Symbolic Interaction Theory – This theory group says that the way we interact with each other is symbolic about how we feel or the messages we send. A smile is a symbol of affection, a frown is one of disapproval. We want to get a “good” present for our birthday that makes us feel special, and if someone forgets our birthday or doesn’t do much for it, we may feel like they really don’t care. This is a fascinating theory group because it focuses on everyday interactions.
In this module, look at the links/materials and write an essay about how you see these different theories impacting families that you are familiar with. This essay should be around 3 pages double spaced. Have one page per theory. Thanks.
Here are the links:
1. Debra Marshall: Sociology of the Family theories, https://youtu.be/prHCBereGdE?si=Iv7vVuopaI4ZPeKL
2. Click on Theories of the family article to open the resource. https://sociology.iresearchnet.com/sociology-of-family/family-theory/
