Sociology

Sociology Study Guide

• Egalitarian: Husband and wife share authority equally in the family While patriarchy is the most common and prevailing pattern, many modern societies have adopted the egalitarian approach. Descent and Inheritance Patterns: Inheritance and family descent occurs in three basic ways: • Patrilineal system: Descent and inheritance passes through the male side of the family • Matrilineal system: Descent and inheritance passes through the female side of the family • Bilateral system: Descent and inheritance passes through both sides of the family The Changing of American Families The horizon of the American family has changed drastically. Now, due in part to more single-parent households, cohabitation, serial monogamy, reconstituted families, childless couples, gay couples, “open” marriages, dual career families, and more, the face of the American family is different with each passing generation. Sociologists expect the nuclear family to adjust to the changing social and economic climate as needed. Some of the key changes are discussed below. • Demographics have played a key role in many family trends. Increased life expectancy, smaller families, children born later in life, and more women in the labor force have affected the nuclear family. • The number of single-parent and stepfamilies has increased. o Single-parent families usually suffer more instability, emotional stress, and relocation along with the role changes usually inherent in a one-parent household. o Blended families usually deal with issues like role confusion, tension, jealousy, and insecurity. It usually takes 3-6 years to fully form a new family. • One of the most significant social changes that have affected the family includes the entrance of women in the work force. This has changed gender roles, created ‘latchkey’ kids, and increased finances. Dual-income families provide a larger income for the family, but usually at the cost of a more hectic lifestyle. • Family violence is increasing, unfortunately. It is unequally distributed among society; in spousal abuse, it is directly linked to low income. Sexual abuse occurs most often in middle andupper- middle income families. The stress related to economic distress is thought to be the central reason behind family violence. Substance abuse is another indicator. o Child abuse includes physical abuse, neglect, sexual abuse, incest, and murder.  Statistically, teen mothers are more likely to abuse their children than aremore mature mothers.  70% of men who abuse their spouses also abuse their children.  50% of sexual abuse is committed by relatives or friends.  Almost one-third of child murders occur at the hand of the mother’s boyfriend. o Abuse against adults includes wife battering, marital rape, husband abuse, and elderly abuse.

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