Family Sociology
The course provides an overview of the field of theories and research in family sociology with some emphasis on the relationship between family and work and the gender dimensions of family life.
Changes in family organization and behavior in Sweden and other Western societies are a particular focus. The course literature consists of theoretical explications as well as recent empirical research. Students are expected to critically examine and evaluate research on the family and to relate it to policy discourse in contemporary Sweden and other wealthy societies.
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Course structure
After having completed the course, students will be able to:
-Understand, describe in theoretical terms and apply in concrete situations the fundamental concepts in sociological theories on family organization and behavior, including family formation and dissolution, household organization, relations between intimate partners and/or between generations, and connections between families and their social, economic, political and cultural contexts.
-Know and describe major trends and variations in family organization and behavior in contemporary Western societies
-Compare, synthesize and evaluate different theoretical explanations for variation and change in family organization and behavior in contemporary societies.
-Understand, explain and cite appropriate evidence for sources of change and variation in family organization and behavior in contemporary societies.
-Understand, explain and cite appropriate evidence for consequences of change and variation in family organization and behavior in contemporary societies.
-Understand, describe in theoretical terms and apply in concrete situations dimensions of generation and gender in family organization and behavior.
-Understand, describe in theoretical terms and apply in concrete situations the relationships between families and their social, economic, political and cultural contexts.
Teaching format
Teaching is conducted through lectures and discussion of materials from assigned readings and lectures.
Course PM - all you need to know
Family Sociology 2024 (238 Kb)
Assessment
Attendance at the seminar meetings is mandatory. Examination will be in three parts.
Examiner
Associate professor Rense Nieuwenhuis
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Schedule
The schedule will be available no later than one month before the start of the course. We do not recommend print-outs as changes can occur. At the start of the course, your department will advise where you can find your schedule during the course. -
Course literature
Note that the course literature can be changed up to two months before the start of the course. -
Course reports
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Contact
Directors of studies, all levels
Questions about all master's courses/programmes at the Department of Sociology: master@sociology.su.se