Chapter 3: Family theory

Family theory

  • A set of statements with identifiable components that help explain why and how individuals interact with each other within their family unit.

Functions of Family Theory

  • Help describe, organize, and predict attitudes and behaviors.

  • Help us be sensitive to perspectives outside our own experince

Social Exchange theory:

  • Have a variety of resources that we bring to any relationship

    • Money, physical appearance, physical/emotional affection, intelligence, athleticism, work ethic, social status, etc

    • We look for and trade for more/better/different resources that another possesses.

      • The goal is to maximize benefits while minimizing costs

      • Costs are defined as resources that you have lost or acquired from the relationship.

    • Ideally, the power dynamic should be balanced based on the resources each person brings to the table.

      • fanical and educational resources tip the scales to the person having a higher level of both.

Conflict theory

  • Interpersonal conflicts are the focus, and this phenomenon occurs because of:

    • scarce resources

    • unequal distribution of power

  • conflict is natural, inevitable, and desirable;

    • key aspect is conflict management

      • raising awareness among members regarding equality

    • Effective conflict results in a change in all family members

Symbolic interactionism

  • Each family is unique.

    • Gestures, symbols, actions, and beliefs are created, shared, and given significance.

    • Shared meanings allow families to define/interpret resources in unique ways.

  • impression management

    • Families try to control the image that other people have of them.

    • members are aware that comsumption og goods and services is interpreted and judged by society

Family development theory

  • Family is a dynamic and changing system that transitions through a series of predictable stages.

    • dating

    • marraige

    • childbearing

    • childrearing

    • emptynest

    • retirment

    • dealth

  • Main focus areas are:

    • timing

    • renegotiation of family roles

Family Strengths Framework: Identify specific strengths within families and apply them to resource management. 
      Less focus on challenges that can hinder resource management
Six major qualities to focus on from a strength's perspective:

  1. Commitment to family

  2. Spending enjoyable time together

  3. Spiritual well-being

  4. Successful management of stress and crisis

  5. Positive communication

  6. Showing appreciation and affection to each other