Universitat Internacional de Catalunya
The Sociology of the Family
Other languages of instruction: English, Spanish,
Teaching staff
Introduction
This course is a general introduction to the sociology of the family. It will address topics and questions related to our understanding of the family, both as an institution and as a set of relationships, as well as the ways in which families have evolved over time. As a discipline, sociology provides the theoretical and empirical tools needed to critically reflect on the family and its role in contemporary societies.
Competences/Learning outcomes of the degree programme
- CB06 - Possess and understand knowledge that provides a basis or opportunity to be original in the development and / or application of ideas, often in a research context
- CB07 - That students know how to apply the knowledge acquired and the ability to solve problems in new or unfamiliar environments within broader (or multidisciplinary) contexts related to their area of study
- CB08 - That students are able to integrate knowledge and face the complexity of formulating judgments based on information that, being incomplete or limited, includes reflections on the social and ethical responsibilities linked to the application of their knowledge and judgments
- CB09 - That students know how to communicate their conclusions - and the knowledge and ultimate reasons that support them - to specialized and non-specialized audiences in a clear and unambiguous way
- CB10 - That students know how to apply the learning skills that allow them to continue studying in a largely self-directed or autonomous way
- CE07 - Relate education with the social environment, understanding the educational function of the family and the community, both in the acquisition of skills and learning and in education in respect of rights and freedoms, in equal rights and opportunities between men and women. women and equal treatment and non-discrimination of people with disabilities
- CE08 - Identify the historical evolution of the family, its different educational styles and the incidence of the family context in education; show social skills in relationship and family orientation
- CE09 - Identify the constitutive elements of human nature and the centrality of the person to understand and carry out a comprehensive education
- CG01 - Formulate reflective and critical, responsible, ethical and respectful judgments about the various protagonists of the educational process (family, school and society)
- CG02 - Analyze and synthesize the information obtained from different environments in order to solve problems or conflict situations, to identify and define the significant elements that constitute a problem to solve it judiciously and effectively
- CG03 - Integrate and collaborate actively in the achievement of common objectives with other people, areas and organizations
- CG04 - Present ideas orally and in writing, adapting to different communication styles and types of activities
- CG05 - Organize and plan different types of activities, events and situations
- CG06 - Integrate and use Information and Communication Technologies in various fields in an efficient and responsible way
- CG07 - Express themselves in public and make presentations with digital support adapted to the different interest groups of the school context
- CT01 - Critically analyze personal work and use the appropriate resources and strategies for professional improvement
- CT02 - Work in a team and develop attitudes of participation and collaboration as an active member of society
- CT03 - Show ethical and responsible behaviors as a citizen and as a professional
- CT04 - Develop the ability to assess inequalities based on sex and gender, to design mechanisms to achieve real equality, avoiding partial and discriminatory interpretations
- CT05 - Identify strategies to promote gender equality, equity and respect for human rights
- CT06 - Promote inclusive situations and environments for Sustainable Development, creating effective, responsible and inclusive contexts at all levels
Syllabus
Session 1. What is a family? Why is this an important sociological topic?
In this session, we will critically discuss commonly accepted ideas about the family and its evolution over time. We will explore why this topic raises important questions from a sociological perspective. We will discuss how sociological debates on the family relate to key questions concerning, for example, social interactions, gender relations, power, education, and inequalities.
Session 2. Is there a crisis of families? What are family public policies?
In this session, we will critically discuss public discourses that suggest there is a crisis of the family (as an institution) in contemporary societies. We will consider the implications of this idea of crisis and its different dimensions. We will also explore how public policies seek to influence families and their organization.
Session 3. How are families shaped by gender relations, work, and care?
In this session, we will analyze how the organization of families is fundamentally influenced by gender relations. We will explore how issues related to work and care affect family dynamics. More generally, we will discuss how broader transformations in gender relations, work, and care challenge traditional perspectives on the family in contemporary societies.
Session 4. What do we understand by parenting styles?
In this session, we will critically discuss the concept of parenting styles and their applications in contemporary societies. We will explore how parenting styles influence gender relations as well as life trajectories. We will also discuss how parenting styles have evolved over time in Western societies.
Session 5. How do families produce (and reproduce) inequalities?
In this session, we will analyze how families (as institutions) are essential for understanding social inequalities in contemporary societies. In particular, we will examine how families reflect and reproduce inequalities across generations. We will discuss the meaning and importance of classic sociological concepts such as social and cultural capital, as well as habitus.
Session 6. What are the relationships between families, schools, and communities?
This session will address the complex relationships between three fundamental institutions that shape children’s development and life trajectories: families, schools, and local communities. We will analyze the interdependence between these three institutions and how relationships between families and schools have changed over time.
Session 7. Final examination and general conclusion
This final session will be dedicated to the final examination (1 hour and 30 minutes) and a general conclusion in which we will summarize the main points discussed throughout the course.