Sociological Approaches

Paradigms

conceptual models or frameworks used to understand the social world.

Theories

propositions that seek to predict a particular aspect.

Hypotheses

Measurable predictions which specify relationships between variables.

Popular but not sociological Approaches

1. Biosocial (biological)

2. Personality Theories (psychological)

Unit of Analysis

1. Macro

2. Meso

3. Micro

Macro Approach: Structuralist-Functionalist

• Families support social stability

• Interdependent network of social institutions that work together to create stability and meet basic need.

Macro Approach: Conflict Theory/Framework

Social order is structured by relationships of inequality, some groups benefitting and others are at a disadvantage.

• Families support inequality, capitalism and stratification

Manifest Function

Emotional Support

Economic Support

Physical and Cultural Reproduction

Types of Micro Approaches (3)

1. Symbolic Interactionism

2. Exchange Theory

3. Family Life Developmental Framework

Symbolic Interactionist Approach (Constructionism)

• MEANING MAKING

• Social order is based upon the everyday interaction and how we draw meaning from it in a sociological way.

• How individuals create, interpret and negotiate meaning through social interactions.

• i.e family rituals, family roles, traditions, labels, conflicts

George Herbert Mead’s Theory Of Generalized Other

Viewpoints, attitudes, and expectations of society as a whole

Key Ideas in Symbolic Interactionism

1. Consensual Validation

2. The “I” and the “Me”

3. The Looking Glass Self

Consensual Validation

Affirmation of beliefs with others.

The “I” and the “Me” (Mead)

Dialogue and Negotiation between “me” social self, and the “ I” (individual thoughts)

The Looking Glass of Self (Cooley)

who we are incorporates the reflected appraisal of others.

Family Life Course Developmental Framework

Individuals move through stages of life that are predictable and expected.

Social Exchange Framework

Individual self interest to maximize benefits and reduce losses.

Relationships are seen as transactions, give vs receive

Family Ecology Framework

study of families considering the community, location, region they are in.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONTEXT

Family Systems Framework

study of family must examine all members within as part of a social whole.

Views the family system as an interconnected whole.