In this course, we trace the history of the American family from the 19th-century farm--in which work, medical care, and entertainment went on--to the smaller, more diverse, and subjectively defined family of the 21st century. We also explore ways in which the family acts as a "shock absorber" of many trends including immigration, the increasing social class divide, and especially the growing domination of the marketplace. Finally, we also explore the diversity of family forms associated with social class, ethnicity, and sexual orientation.

This course will examine major elements in the complex relationship between families and larger social forces. Rather than assuming a universal model of the family (sometimes seen as the “building block” of society), we will look at families as diverse social entities that are supported or constrained by economic factors, gender ideologies, racial inequality, sexual norms and cultural changes—including those brought through immigration. Once we understand how forces of social inequality play out within families in general, we can better understand the dynamics within individual families. With insights into social and institutional influences on American families, we can better imagine a variety of political, economic, and cultural reforms that would truly support families in their diverse forms. Students must have completed at least one sociology class before enrolling in this class.

Credit Restrictions

Students will receive no credit for Sociology 111AC after taking Sociology 111; a deficient grade in Sociology 111 may be removed by taking Sociology 111AC.

Repeat Rules

Course is not repeatable for credit.

Requirements class fulfills