SECTION 6: Perspectives on Diversity

A. The Rappoports: Five Types of Diversity

The Rappoports were the first to argue that diversity is a positive response to people's needs, not a sign of family "breakdown."

1. Organizational: Differences in how domestic labor is divided (e.g., dual earners).

2. Cultural: Different ethnic groups have different family structures (e.g., higher rates of extended families in South Asian communities).

3. Social Class: Income differences affect how families function and raise children.

4. Life Stage: Our family form changes as we age (e.g., being a newlywed vs. an "empty nester").

5. Generational: Younger generations have different attitudes toward cohabitation and divorce than older generations.

B. Postmodernism (Stacey & Giddens)

• Judith Stacey: Argues that women have been the "agents of change" in family life, creating "divorce-extended families" (staying in touch with ex-in-laws for support).

• Anthony Giddens (The Choice Revolution): * Contraception and female independence have changed the basis of relationships.

  • The Pure Relationship: Relationships now only last as long as they provide personal satisfaction (confluent love), leading to more "serial monogamy" rather than "marriage for life."