SOC-455 SOCIOLOGY OF THE FAMILY
An advanced course on sociology of the family, with emphasis on the contemporary American Experience. Major theoretical perspectives on the purpose, function and interdependent nature of the family are reviewed. Analysis also focuses on the diversity of family experiences as shaped by gender, social class, race-ethnic identity and age, as well as on issues relating to the household division of labor, employment, parenting, sexuality, marriage and power. The majority of the course topics are examined in terms of contemporary debates regarding the stability of family life and on the legislation and public policies that have been developed to address these problems. Prerequisite: SOC 201 or SOC 246 or permission of Department Chair.