Postmodernist view of the family Flashcards
(9 cards)
What is the Individualisation Thesis?
BECK AND GIDDENS
The idea that traditional social structures have lost influence over people’s actions and decisions, allowing for greater personal choice in family arrangements.
Giddens & Beck propose that individuals are no longer bound by ascribed roles based on class, gender, and religion.
What has contributed to the transformation of family structures according to Giddens?
Advancements such as the availability of contraception and female independence.
These changes have led to the emergence of ‘Pure Relationships’.
What does Stacey argue about women’s roles in family structure changes?
Women have led the change in family structures, roles, and responsibilities rather than men.
This was demonstrated through life history interviews conducted in Silicon Valley.
What is a Divorce-Extended family according to Stacey?
A family structure that includes members like Ex-In Laws and Ex Partners who help each other financially and domestically despite not being connected by blood or marriage.
This reflects new family dynamics that have emerged post-divorce.
What criticism does the Personal Life Perspective offer about the Individualisation Thesis?
It exaggerates the amount of choice people have about family, asserting that traditional social structures still exist and influence choices.
It highlights that social context, personal experiences, and media impact decisions.
EVALUATION
What does Vanessa May suggest about Beck and Giddens’ view of the individual?
It is an idealised version of a white middle-class man.
This critique addresses the limitations of their perspective on individualism.
EVALUATION
What is the Connectedness Thesis proposed by Carol Smart?
The idea that people live in a web of connectedness, where networks of relationships and personal histories strongly influence their options and choices.
This perspective emphasizes the social nature of individuals.
Fill in the blank: According to Giddens and Beck, traditional social structures have _______ over people’s decisions.
lost influence.
True or False: Stacey’s research indicates that men have primarily driven changes in family structures.
False.
