Sociology Study Guide: Family, Marriage, and Social Trends

A set of flashcards covering key concepts from the Sociology Study Guide on Family, Marriage, and Social Trends.

What is monogamy?

Marriage between two people.

Define polygamy.

Marriage involving multiple spouses.

What is polygyny?

A form of polygamy where one man has multiple wives.

What is polyandry?

A form of polygamy where one woman has multiple husbands.

What is endogamy?

Marrying within one's social group, such as within the same religion.

What is exogamy?

Marrying outside one's social group, such as in interracial marriage.

What has been a trend in marriage rates in the U.S. since the 1950s?

Marriage rates have declined; people marry later or choose not to marry.

How does the U.S. marriage rate compare to other industrialized countries?

The U.S. marriage rate remains high, but it also has a high divorce rate.

What is the people's definition of family?

Family based on emotional bonds.

How does the U.S. government define family?

Family based on biological or legal ties, such as marriage or adoption.

What is the sociologists' view of family?

A broader view emphasizing social roles and responsibilities.

Why is the 'traditional' family considered abnormal?

The nuclear family model from the 1950s is historically rare compared to extended families, single-parent households, and blended families.

What recent trends have been observed in U.S. families?

Increase in single-parent households and growth of blended families due to remarriages.

What is the perception of cohabitation versus marriage in the U.S.?

Cohabitation is common and perceived as a trial for marriage, but research shows lower relationship satisfaction compared to marriage.

What is the current perception of same-sex families in the U.S.?

There is increasing acceptance, and research indicates children of same-sex parents fare as well as those from heterosexual families.

Why do more people remain single in the U.S.?

More people are choosing to stay single, often reporting strong social networks and life satisfaction.

What does early research show about the relationship between cohabitation and divorce?

It linked cohabitation with a higher risk of divorce.

What do recent studies indicate about cohabitation and divorce?

Context matters more than cohabitation itself.

What are the four functions of family according to George Murdock?

1. Sexual regulation 2. Reproduction 3. Socialization of children 4. Economic cooperation

What are some barriers to equal sharing of housework between men and women?

Traditional gender roles, unequal work hours, and socialization and cultural expectations.

What has contributed to the decline in the U.S. divorce rate?

Marrying later, economic stability, and cultural shifts towards careful partner selection.

What factors contribute to the high divorce rate in conservative states?

Younger age at marriage, economic stress, and cultural pressures to marry early.

How does the divorce rate in the U.S. compare to other countries?

The U.S. has a higher divorce rate than many industrialized nations.

What is the status of remarriage in the U.S.?

Remarriage is common, and blended families are increasingly typical, though second and third marriages have higher divorce rates.

What impact does divorce have on children?

Children may experience short-term stress, but most adapt well over time; high conflict between parents is more damaging than divorce itself.

What is the nature of intimate partner violence?

It is a common and serious public health issue, with women more often severely injured.

What is the most common form of child abuse in the U.S.?

Neglect is the most common form of child abuse.