Assignment

Write an essay

1. Describe family structures and dynamics in the United States.

2. Apply appropriate social science theories and methodologies to do an in-depth analysis of an important question, issue or problem( use the methodologies to justify the answer).

3. Identify social arrangements interpreted as unjust and articulate the implications for social policy and action.

Review lecture notes and discussion board posts.

Consult the list of sources you prepared in the discussion regarding how Americans raise their children.

As we've seen, families tend to be smaller among higher-income groups in the United States, and higher among lower-income groups. This seems paradoxical. You'd expect the reverse to be the case, given that raising a family can be expensive and stressful, and the U.S. government provides little support for families.

Explain the paradox of low birthrates among the wealthy and high birthrates among the poor, keeping in mind that we are describing tendencies, rather than absolute rules. (Many wealthy families have several children and plenty of poor people never have children at all!) Show how child-rearing practices among these two groups are "in sync" with their family formation practices. Is it easier for a family to achieve higher status if there are fewer children to raise? Why or why not?

Draw on the two theoretical frameworks you know best - functionalism and conflict theory - as well as the knowledge you have gained throughout the course. You may consider the influence of individualism, of traditional religion, and/or of the economy. How are small families useful to society? How can they be a strategy for overcoming social inequalities? Conversely, how can large families reproduce the existing class system, and how might they undermine that system?

Your essay should include a theoretical framework, an argument, supporting evidence, and a concluding paragraph. A top-quality piece will include evidence that seems to contradict your argument at first glance but, in fact, supports it if you provide the correct interpretation. Aim for between 750 and 1500 words. Include a bibliography as well as names, dates and page number references when citing examples from your sources (lecture notes, textbook, and internet sources).