Introduction
As one of the major topics in Chapter 1, Providing Definitions, the author views the family from a social institution perspective, emphasizes its importance, and considers family types and trends affecting it. For example, the author considers various situations of families, particularly communication scenarios, which is the next major topic. The following theme is the self-definition of family members and their attitudes toward one another. In addition, the author considers typology as an important topic and distinguishes types such as biologically, legally, or socially deprived families. Moreover, in the chapter, the author describes major themes such as boundaries in the family, the impact of time on it, and the communication perspective.
Representative Theorists and Their Theories
The first theorists mentioned in the chapter are Mary Anne Fitzpatrick and Diane Badzinski, who consider a family primary as a value of constant communication. The next theory is based on the opinion that conversation is the foundation of family life and was created by Gerald Handel and Gail Whitchurch. Another theorist Erin Sahlstein Parcell also highlights the importance of communication to shape social realities.
Key Claims Discussed in the Chapter
As a key claim, the author asserts the importance of the family for the formation of a particular person and society. However, the following statement calls into question an established understanding of this social institute. It states that the concept of being “family” is a topic of conversation in the media. Another essential point is that for people, the family composition is a more important factor than what the concept entails. The next argument states that not only its members use communication, but communication constructs family. Another key assertion considers this social institute’s participants both as relatives and as friends, and colleagues. Considering one of the still actual topics of discussion, the authors stress that the importance of plans for the future and history are critical factors in relations between family members.
Two Relevant Discussion Questions
The chapter says that family can consist not only of relatives but of friends and colleagues at work. The question is: does this view diminish the value of relations with relatives, and how many additional families can a person have?
Another key statement of the chapter highlights the importance of communication among family members for creating a qualitative relationship. The question is: what should a person do if they have naturally bad communication skills but love and appreciate their relatives?