SOC 232 Families: Comparative Perspectives

3 credit hours

Families are basic units in every society. They perform functions which affect every other institution in a social system and are in turn influenced by changes in other social systems (e.g. ecological, technological, economic, political symbolic). Students trace these links and examine families as both institutions and processes. They explore a variety of related topics (definitions of families, kinship ties, marriage, parenting styles, and policy issues). Understanding these interrelationships enhances their effectiveness as future professionals (e.g. social workers, educators, probation officers) who will be engaged in service delivery with individuals, families, neighborhoods and communities. They also can view their past experiences with families as “training grounds” for their own present and future personal family relationships. Students use both anthropological and sociological frameworks and methods to enhance their understandings of creative processes. This includes the refinement of empathic skills and the further development of critical thinking abilities through the use of social justice perspectives. A variety of interactive educational methodologies, including service learning assignments, are used in the course.

Prerequisite:

SOC 111 Introduction To Sociology or SOC 113 Cultural Anthropology

Course is Offered: WI or SU Every Year