Changing Family Patterns

These flashcards cover key concepts and details from the lecture on changing family patterns.

What percentage of marriages end in divorce since the 1960s?

40% of marriages end in divorce.

What allowed for easier divorce in the UK?

The Divorce Reform Act, which widened the grounds for divorce.

What is 'serial monogamy'?

A pattern of marriage, divorce, and re-marriage.

What factors contributed to the declining stigma surrounding divorce?

Secularization, less church influence, and normalization of divorce.

Define cohabitation.

Living together without being legally married, often with separate financial and legal affairs.

What are some alternatives to divorce mentioned in the notes?

Desertion, empty shell marriages, and legal separation.

What is the significance of secularization in changing family patterns?

It reflects a declining influence of religion and changing expectations in marriage.

How has women's financial independence affected marriage?

It has led to increased divorce rates as women are no longer financially dependent on husbands.

What is the claim made by the New Right regarding divorce?

They see it as undermining the nuclear family, which is critical for social stability.

What does the term 'quasi-marriage' refer to?

Same-sex cohabitation as a stable partnership without formal marriage.

What does the Personal Life Perspective suggest about divorce?

Divorce can cause financial difficulties but is normalized in society.

What trend is observed regarding children being born outside of marriage?

More children are being born outside of marriage, with single mothers increasing.

What is indicated by the term 'Living Apart Together' (LAT)?

A relationship where partners are in a significant relationship but do not live together.

How do family patterns vary by ethnicity in the UK?

Different ethnic groups have varying rates of marriage, lone parenthood, and cohabitation.

What historical event is suggested to have influenced current black family structures?

The legacy of slavery, where couples were separated.

What does Beck & Giddens state about modern relationships?

They emphasize individualization and the pursuit of self-interest, making relationships fragile.

What percentage of adults are identified as 'Living Apart Together'?

1 in 10 adults are in LAT relationships.