Please See The Attached Worksheets: The Family And Us
Please See The Attached Worksheetsoc 505 The Family And Us Society
Please see the attached worksheet titled "SOC-505 The Family and U.S. Society." Because family is such a major societal institution, there is a dynamic interplay between family and society. They affect one another. This assignment will help you learn this concept. Complete the worksheet by responding to the following two questions.
Cite two to four scholarly sources to support your answers. Your responses should be words each and in APA format. A Reference section will be located at the end of each question.
Paper For Above instruction
The relationship between family and society is deeply interconnected, each shaping and influencing the other in various ways. Understanding this dynamic interplay requires examining how societal structures impact family life and, conversely, how familial changes can prompt societal shifts. This essay explores two significant aspects of this relationship: the influence of societal norms on family roles and the impact of family structures on societal stability.
Societal Norms and Family Roles
Societal norms significantly influence the roles and expectations within families. Cultural values, laws, and societal attitudes define what is considered acceptable behavior for family members, shaping gender roles, parenting styles, and familial responsibilities. For example, traditional gender roles often dictate that men are the primary breadwinners, while women are responsible for child-rearing and household chores. These norms are reinforced by societal institutions such as education and media, which perpetuate specific ideals about family functioning (Risman, 2004). Changes in societal attitudes toward gender equality and diversity are gradually transforming family roles, reflecting society's evolving values (Davis & Greenstein, 2009).
Family Structures and Societal Stability
The structure of families within a society directly impacts social stability and cohesion. Extended family systems, nuclear families, single-parent households, and other arrangements each influence societal functioning differently. Research indicates that diverse family forms can foster social resilience by providing varied support networks (Cherlin, 2010). Conversely, high rates of family disruption through divorce or single parenthood can pose challenges to social stability, affecting economic well-being and social cohesion. Societal policies that support family stability, such as parental leave and child welfare programs, play a vital role in maintaining social harmony (Amato & Keith, 1991). The stability of family units contributes to the development of social capital, which is essential for societal progress.
Conclusion
The interaction between family and society is reciprocal and complex. Societal norms shape family roles and expectations, while family structures influence broader social stability and cohesion. Recognizing this interplay is important for developing policies that support healthy family environments and, consequently, a stable society. Future research should continue to explore how societal changes, such as technological advancements and demographic shifts, will further impact family-society dynamics.
References
- Amato, P. R., & Keith, B. (1991). Parental divorce and the well-being of children: A meta-analysis. Psychological Bulletin, 110(1), 26–46.
- Cherlin, A. J. (2010). The marriage-go-round: The state of marriage and the family in America today. Vintage.
- Davis, S. N., & Greenstein, T. N. (2009). Relationship longevity and the gendered division of labor. American Journal of Sociology, 114(2), 341–371.
- Risman, B. J. (2004). Gender as a social structure framework for research. Gender & Society, 18(2), 106–112.