SOC 251 : Sociology of the Family
This course explores the various forms of contemporary family constructs with an emphasis on the social forces that impact family life. Micro-level psycho-social issues include sexual identity and orientation, courtship patterns, mate selection, role expectations and family planning practices. Macro-level socio-political economic factors include economic transformations, contemporary employment patterns, variation in family structures, childcare and childbearing issues, elder family member issues, and domestic violence. Prerequisite: A passing score on the College's writing and reading placement tests or, C or better or concurrent enrollment in ENG 091 or ENG 092. Three lecture hours per week.
Gen. Ed. Competencies Met: Ethical Dimensions, Global and Historic Awareness and Multicultural and Social Perspectives.
Course Outcomes
1. Develop a historical and cross-cultural analysis of contemporary family structures.
2. Examine the intersection of race, age, social class, gender, and sexual orientation on family life and roles.
3. Identify significant stages and processes in the family cycle.
4. Analyze the social, economic and policy factors that shape family systems.