Exploring Family Theories

by Ingoldsby, Bron B.; Smith, Suzanne R.; Miller, J. Elizabeth

• ISBN13: 9780195330328
• ISBN10: 0195330323
• Edition: 1st
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2003-08-01
• Publisher: Oxford University Press

Summary

Exploring Family Theories integrates theory with research and applications--offering a highly readable introduction to family theories. In each chapter, the authors present the history, scholarship, and critiques of each principal family theory in a concise and student-friendly manner. Numerous illustrations and examples augment and clarify content. Application questions enhance the student's ability to relate each theory to the real world. A follow-up journal article exemplifies how each theory is used to guide actual research.

Table of Contents

Introduction

Structural/Functionalism

Theory

History

Basic Assumptions

Primary Terms and Concepts

Structure

Function

Instrumental

Expressive

Equilibrium

The Benchmark Family

Conformity

Innovation

Ritualism

Retreatism

Rebellion

Common Areas of Research and Application

Family Structure

Family Functions

Origin of the Family

Family Universality

Marital Structure

Working Women

Family Definition

Critique

Application

Sample Reading: The Theoretical Importance of Love

Developmental Theory

History

Basic Assumptions

Primary Terms and Concepts

Family

Normative Events

Stages

Tasks

Timing

Change

Transitions

Common Areas of Research and Application

The Family Life Cycle

The Family Career

The Dynamics of Family Development

The Life Course Perspective

Carter and McGoldrick Model

The Systemic Family Development Model

Critique

Application

Sample Reading: Coping Among Dual-Career Men and Women Across the Family Life Cycle

Social Exchange Theory

History

Basic Assumptions

Primary Terms and Concepts

Rewards

Costs

Profit

Comparison Level

Level of Alternatives

Reciprocity

Distributive Justice, Fairness, and Equity

Common Areas of Research and Application

Romantic Issues

Relationship Issues

Gender Differences in Sexual Behavior

Decision-Making

Critique

Application

Sample Reading: A Half Century of Mate Preferences

Symbolic Interaction Theory

History

Important Early Contributions

Principal Scholars

Basic Assumptions

First Overarching Theme

Second Overarching Theme

Third Overarching Theme

Primary Terms and Concepts

Symbols

Interaction

Gestures

Social Norms

Rituals

Roles

Salience

Identity

Common Areas of Research and Application

African-American Families

Development of Self

Sexuality

Methodological Issues

Critique

Application

Sample Reading: Identity Salience and Role Performance: The Relevance of Symbolic Interaction Theory for Family Research

Conflict Theory

History

Basic Assumptions

Primary Terms and Concepts

Competition

Conflict

Conflict Management

Conflict Resolution

Consensus

Negotiation and Bargaining

Power

Assertion and Aggression

Threats and Promises

Common Areas of Research and Application

Conflict Management

Divorce

Developmental Changes

Abuse

Critique

Application

Sample Reading: Why Welfare?

Stress Theory

History

Basic Assumptions

Stressor Events

(A)Resources

(B)Definition of the Situation

(C)Stress and Crisis

(X)Primary Terms and Concepts

Stressors

Normative Event

Resources

Crisis

Adaptation

Common Areas of Research and Application

Informal Family Care

Work and Family

Adolescent Coping

Non-normative Stressors

Non-normative Caregiving

Critique

The Double A Factor: Stress and Change

The Double B Factor: Family Resources

The Double C Factor: Family Perception

The Double X Factor: Family Crisis and Adaptation

Mundane Extreme Environmental Stress Models

Family Adjustment and Adaptation Response(FARR) Model

Application

References

Sample Reading: A Crisis Framework Applied to Macrosociological Family Changes: Marriage, Divorce, and Occupational Trends Associated With World War II

Family Systems Theory

History

Basic Assumptions

Primary Terms and Concepts

System

Boundaries

Elements

Family Rules

Feedback

Equilibrium

Linear Causality

Circular Causality

Identified Patient

Double Bind

Disengagement

Enmeshment

Mutuality

Common Areas of Research and Application

Critique

Application

Sample Reading: Family Rules

Feminist Family Theory

History

Basic Assumptions

Primary Terms and Concepts

Sex

Gender

Categorization

Stratification

Privilege

Social Deconstruction

Social Discourse

Praxis

Common Areas of Research and Application

Division of Labor

Family Violence

Critique

Application

Sample Reading: Feminists and the Ideology and Practice of Marital Equality

Biosocial Theory

History

Basic Assumptions

Primary Terms and Concepts

Adaptation

Fitness

Proximate Causes

Natural Selection

Common Areas of Research and Application

Temperament

Gender

Sexuality

Critique

Applic

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