Changing Patterns Of Family Life - Life Course Analysis

Question 1

What is life course ?

Answer 1

Life course refers to the events that take place throughout an individuals life

Question 2

What was the life course like in the modern era ?

Answer 2

I’m the modern era , the life course followed a stable set of norms and values for most individuals

Question 3

What are the key changes in society that have changes the life course ? ( 6 points )

Answer 3

1. Rise of feminism
2. Reduced stigma over lifestyles
3. Increased choice and individualisation
4. Secularisation
5. Legislation
6. Changing attitudes to relationships

Question 4

What does Green say about the life course ?

Answer 4

There is no fixed path through life course in contemporary society as was the case in previous generations

Question 5

Name Allan and crows research into the life course ?

Answer 5

Changes to life course mean the contemporary family is not like the traditional family

Question 6

What is Beck-gernsheims research into life course ?

Answer 6

Families retain some traditional elements such as structure , but differ in identity and organisation

Question 7

Evidence of life course changes ( 2 points )

Answer 7

1. Increased divorce compared to the 1960s

2. Changes in retirement and changes such as beanpole families