Learning Objectives

The family, in its many varying forms, is present in all human cultures. This chapter examines the state of marriage, the family, and other intimate relationships in the United States and considers alternatives to the traditional nuclear family.

After studying this chapter you should be able to understand the following:

1

There are many variations in the family from culture to culture and even within the same culture.

2

The structure of the extended family can offer certain advantages over that of the nuclear family.

3

We determine kinship by descent from both parents (bilateral descent), from the father (patrilineal), or from the mother (matrilineal).

4

Sociologists do not agree on whether the egalitarian family has replaced the patriarchal family as the social norm in the United States.

5

Sociologists have identified six basic functions of the family: reproduction, protection, socialization, regulation of sexual behavior, companionship, and the providing of social status.

6

Conflict theorists argue that the family contributes to societal injustice and denies opportunities to women that are extended to men.

7

Interactionists focus on the micro-level¾on how individuals interact in the family and other intimate relationships.

8

Mates are selected in a variety of ways. Some marriages are arranged. Some people are able to choose their mates. Some societies require choosing a mate within a certain group (endogamy) or outside certain groups (exogamy).

9

In the United States, there is considerable variation in family life associated with social class, race, and ethnic differences.

10

Currently, the majority of all married couples in the United States have two partners active in the paid labor force.

11

Among the factors that contribute to the rising divorce rate in the United States are the greater social acceptance of divorce and the liberalization of divorce laws in many states.

12

More and more people are living together without marrying, thereby engaging in what is called cohabitation. People are also staying single longer in general or deciding not to have children within marriage.

13

While many municipalities in the United States have passed domestic partnership legislation, such proposals continue to face strong opposition from conservative religious and political groups.

14

Reproductive technology has advanced to such an extent that ethical questions have arisen about the creation and shaping of human life.

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