The family is a social institution as well as an agent of socialization that is socially constructed and historically changing. For example, historically traditional families were the norm. Today there are more single-parent, divorced and same-sex families than there are traditional families. Sociological theories help us understand how institutions have changed over time. Our understanding of the family as a social institution can be enhanced by applying theories. Consider how the three major theories, Functionalist developed by Durkheim, Conflict developed by Marx, and Symbolic Interactionist developed by Mead can be applied to the family. Apply the three sociological theories, as described by Marx, Durkheim and Mead to a discussion of the family as a social institution. Be sure to explain each theory and provide examples of how they can be applied to understanding the family.