Postmoderism and Family Diversity

Weeks
1. Argues society value diversity & choice
  1. E.G the legal recognition of same-sex couples through The Civil Partnership Act of 2004
Argue family life is characterised by diversity - there's no longer any consensus about norms and values.
1. We live in a culture were we can 'pick & mix' our identities and our family life.
  1. Gender roles no longer fixed & relationships within the family reflect this change - E.G crisis in masculinity has resulted in men redefining their sexuality & family commitment.
Pakulski & Water (1996)
1. Believe contemporary family roles are now a matter of choice.
Stacey (1996)
1. Looks @ family from postmodern perspective - sees no generally agreed norms & values directing the shape of life.
  1. She welcomes the diversity, believing that it may bring more equal & democratic relationships.
Evaluation
1. Stacey's research not representative - conducted in Sillicon Valley in California.
  1. BUT, she may have identified a trend which is speading to wider society

Resource summary

	Created by Kirsty White almost 10 years ago