Time Schedule:
Brian Serafini
SOC 352
Seattle Campus
The family as a social institution. Historical changes and societal variation in family patterns. Changes over the life cycle. Alternative family forms.
Class description
The family is probably the most enduring of all social institutions. While all individuals encounter the family in some form or another, what is considered family, and the functions of the family have not remained constant across time and place. Like any social institution, the family has been susceptible to economic, political, and demographic changes. This course is designed to expand students' understanding and definition of the family, while exploring how individuals' "private" family experiences are part of broader societal patterns.
Student learning goals
To incorporate multiple definitions of the family.
To develop an understanding that family composition, behavior, and function are structured through societal, demographic, and economic influences.
To develop an understanding that "private" family experiences are part of larger societal, demographic, and economic influences.
To become critical of research that investigates the family.
To use course material to become informed of policies that directly or indirectly target families.
General method of instruction
There are three ways in which information will be distributed: traditional lecture format, course readings, and discussions of materials.
The last half-hour of class will usually be left for a small group of students to lead discussion. This will be heavily based on course readings.
Recommended preparation
This course does not have any prerequisites.
Class assignments and grading
Grade breakdown:
20% Working with another student or two to lead a half-hour discussion 35% Multiple Choice/Short Essay Midterm 35% Multiple Choice/Short Essay Final 10% Participation in discussions
Note: The instructor may dedicate class time for exam review and general test strategies.
