Week 2:

Family Relations

Theories—"set(s) of logically related propositions that explain some phenomenon" (Lauer and Lauer, P. 20)  - seek to help us predict and explain events. Family theories (of which there are several), may help us understand specific experiences within the family and to alter the course of future events.

Unlike theories of individual behavior, family theories take into account the interrelatedness of factors, including the influence of one member's behavior upon another. They offer explanations for what might otherwise seem like mysterious patterns of behavior, even when those behaviors seem counter-intuitive.

Theories are not "truths" per se, but they can be very helpful in our study of the family. Here we will focus primarily on family systems theory as a means of understanding and predicting behavior (choice) within the family context. We will also consider exchange theory, symbolic interaction theory, and conflict theory.

Outcomes

By the end of this week, you will be able to complete the following:

  1. Understand, apply, and articulate basic family systems perspectives and concepts.
  2. Develop general familiarity with other theories for examining family life.
  3. Recognize social factors which often influence the family.

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