Neo-Conventional Family and Family Diversity
Chester's concept of the neo-conventional family provides an alternative perspective on family diversity, which is crucial for AQA A level Sociology Families and Households revision notes.
Chester recognizes increased family diversity but argues that it's not significantly negative or important. Key points of his theory include:
- The main change is from the traditional nuclear family to the neo-conventional family.
- The neo-conventional family is similar to the symmetrical family, featuring dual earners.
- Different family types are attributed to life cycle stages rather than fundamental social changes.
Definition: The neo-conventional family, as defined by Chester, is a modern family structure that maintains some traditional aspects while adapting to contemporary social norms, such as both parents working.
Evidence supporting Chester's view of limited change:
- Most people still live in households headed by married couples
- The majority of people still marry and have children
- Many divorcees remarry, maintaining the nuclear family structure
Highlight: Chester argues that the importance of family diversity is often exaggerated, and the nuclear family remains the dominant family form.
The Rapoports' perspective on family diversity:
The Rapoports identified five types of family diversity, arguing that this diversity is essential to understanding modern family life. They view family diversity positively, seeing it as an adaptation to a pluralistic society with diverse cultures and lifestyles.
Example: Cultural diversity in families might be seen in the higher prevalence of lone-mother families in African-Caribbean communities, reflecting different cultural norms and historical factors.
This view contrasts with the New Right perspective, emphasizing the benefits of diverse family structures in reflecting increased personal choice and societal pluralism.
Vocabulary: Types of family diversity sociology refers to the various forms of family structures and relationships that exist in society, as identified by sociologists like the Rapoports.
In conclusion, understanding these various perspectives on family diversity is crucial for students studying Theories of the family Sociology A level. Each viewpoint offers unique insights into the changing nature of families and their role in modern society.
