We must not define "the family"!

Article Abstract:

An increasing number of sociologists are recognizing the depth of family ideology as evident by their use of such terms as 'family,' 'family life' or 'families' instead of 'The Family.' Sociologists are realizing that the term 'The Family' cannot be defined or does not exist because of the extent of variation and diversity in families. Moreover, by recognizing that 'The Family' does not exist, researchers are understanding better the problems affecting families in different societies.

Terminology, Sociological research

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What is family? Further thoughts on a social constructionist approach

Article Abstract:

A constructionist approach to family studies is presented. It describes how an ethnomethodologically-informed analysis is brought to bear on the social construction of family. It argues that the family does not take on the substantive forms of a specific ideal, past or present. Instead, the constructionist approach asserts that the family is constantly under construction, acquiring its defining characteristics in real time and place through interpretive practice.

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My family and me: a 20th century saga

Article Abstract:

Catherine Street Chilman provides an autobiography of her life. Chilman expounds on her family relationships, her career as a social scientist specializing in family research, and the social changes of the 20th century in which the roles of women were altered, as well as family patterns.

United States, Social aspects, Personal narratives, Biography, Sex role, Sex roles, Social change, Social scientists, Chilman, Catherine Street

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