Summary of Theories

Questions to answer

* why do families behave that way?
* how can we best support families?
* how can we strengthen family interactions?

Family theories can provide analysis on macro or micro levels

* macro-broad perspective of family as social institutions that functions to maintain society
* micro-focused perspective of individual analysis within the family system

Conflict Theory

social inequality results in unequal resources resulting in inevitable conflict

macro

Feminist Family Theory

investigation of family life as experienced by those with lower status, especially women

macro

Biosocial

the reciprocal roles of nature and environment in shaping family behavior

macro

Ecological Systems Theory

emphasis is on how humans as biological and social organisms interface with their many environments

macro

Social Exchange Theory

family life as a rational exchange designed to maximize rewards and minimize costs

macro

Symbolic Interaction Theory

family interaction governed by symbolic communication which defines reality

micro

Family Developmental Theory

family life predicted by passage through normative stages and the accomplishment of corresponding tasks

micro

Attachment Theory

role of attachment in romantic relationships and parenting; the interaction between parents and children, and it’s late impact on adult relationships

micro

Family Systems Theory

the relationship between individuals and the systems in their environment that directly and indirectly affect them

micro

Family Stress Theory

analysis of the process of experiencing the resolving life events

micro