FAML400 Family Theories and Dynamics
Family Rules (FST)
Repetitive behavioral patterns, based on the redundancy principle, that regulate family functioning by offering guidelines for future family interactions Rules develop over time and become "calibrated" or set.
-Stage 7:
The middle years: Refocusing on the marriage relationship. Maintaining kin ties with older and younger generations
Reciprocal Roles (SIT)
The mutual give and take involved in a role, opposite and complementary
Conflict resolution (CT)
The parties no longer see the issue as competition for scarce resources
How does reason and revelation tie together?
They are equal partners. Each hiving check to the other. "Believing is seeing, and seeing is believing." When we find that we do not have both the revelation and the reason agreeing then we should hold off judgment and wait and search more so when they do agree that is the truth.
Purposes of theories:
They give us explanations for why things work the way they do, which in turn helps us to know how to help or intervene.
A perpetual scarcity of resources leads to perpetual confrontations and conflict.
True
Family boundaries can be categorized by their degree of permeability and interaction with the outside environment (FST)
True
Function (SFT)
What services does the family Provide to society?
Consensus (CT)
When all parties "see things the same way"
Morphogenesis
When positive feedback is present and system alteration occurs.
What does it mean that "the locus of pathology is not within the person, but is a system dysfunction?"
When there is a problem with a person it is not the person with the problem but it is the system that is flawed.
Give an example of an unhealthy triangle. (SIT)
When you triangle with God to make a point rather than sharing your feelings and thoughts. A wife is needing more attention from her husband. She decides to "triangle" God in and uses Him to prove a point: "Heavenly Father said that you are supposed to love me like Christ loves the Church! You should be planning a date night!
Perverse Triangle
Where a third person is drawn into the argument. So a husband/wife brings God in as the third person and says that God is on their side, or a child is brought in and made to be on one side or the other.
What area of research would be most easily studied from an exchange Theory framework/perspective?
Why people choose one church over another
What is Exchange theory
based on utilitarian thinking (do what benefits you most) most valid predictor early in relationships Mate selection is based on who offers the greatest reward at the lowest cost Rewards, Cost, Profit, Loss, Alternative Is what you do rewarding to the other person?
Deviant Behavior (SFT)
behaviors that deviate from the social norms can still play a useful role in the theory, as well as in society. Based on 5 categories, 1) conformity, 2) innovation, 3) ritualism, 4) retreatism, 5) rebellion.
Equilibrium (SFT)
Any human system will resist change-families work best when things are in balance.
Costs (ET)
Any status, relationship, or feeling that the individual does not like and would like to avoid is considered a cost.
Symbols (SIT)
Anything that can have multiple meanings • Symbols of "discipline"? • "Looking glass self" - 3 elements • Definition of the situation - assessment of the situation • Roles • Expectations for behavior of persons in a position • Behavior of people in statuses or positions
Threats (CT)
Communicate the delivery of punishments
What are the assumptions of Family Developmental Theory?
Families should be viewed over time There are tasks associated with different points along the family life cycle. Families undergo stages of development
-Stage 5:
Families with adolescents: Balancing freedom with responsibility as teenagers mature and emancipate themselves.
Stage 3:
Families with preschool children: Adapting to the critical needs and interests of preschool children in stimulating, growth-promoting ways. Coping with energy depletion and lack of privacy as parents.
-Stage 4:
Families with school age children: Fitting into the community of school-age families in constructive ways. Encouraging children's educational achievements.
-Stage 6:
Families with young adults; the "launching Stage": Establishing post-parental interests and careers as growing parents. Releasing young adults into work military service, college, marriage, and so on, with appropriate rituals and assistance. Maintaining a supportive home base
Which of these best exemplifies what a family "system" is? (FST)
Family members and their patterns for managing behavior.
Are hypotheses constructed using inductive or Deductive thinking in the Wallace Wheel?
Deductive
Family Development (FDT)
Development occurs as families make the transition from one stage to another.
Family (FDT)
Duvall (1977) the family is composed of "interacting persons related by ties of marriage, birth or adoption, whose central purpose is to create and maintain a common culture which promotes the physical, mental, emotional, and social development of each of its members.
Norms (FDT)
Each stage of development is related to behaviors or tasks that would normally be expected to occur during that stage. Norms govern both the group and individual behaviors, often defining the roles that people play.
Give an example of how theory could inform research.
Feminist theory might get someone wondering if there really is a difference in how much a man makes compared to a women.
Wallace Wheel
From theories we can form hypothesis which leads us to designing a research study which leads to observation which leads to generalizations which leads us to the development of a theory which leads us to either a new or improved theory.
How can therapists work with couples in martial therapy who have a God-couple relationship triangle? (SIT)
Invite couples to describe their individual and shared interpretations of God's relationship with their marital system. They can then assess the construction of this triangle with God. Coalition - Point out "From your perspective, it sounds like God is entirely on your side. Do you think that God has more understanding and empathy for your wife's position than you think?" Displacement - "Are you really angry at God or angry at yourselves for your marital distress? Substitutive - Encourage them to reconsider God's goals for the marriage, and invite them to consider whether, in the process of building God's Kingdom, God is willing for them to forfeit their marital satisfaction.
Gender (FT)
Is a socially constructed phenomenon ( defined by our society /culture, etc. Refers to social meanings and behaviors ascribed to one's sex
Grounded Theory Methodology (SIT)
Is a systematic methodology in the social sciences involving the construction of theory through the analysis of data. Grounded theory is a research methodology which operates almost in a reverse fashion from social science research in the positivist tradition.
What is family systems theory?
focuses on continuous circular interactions between members and the members' perception of the interaction think circular- not linear linear means cause and effect it is a predominant theory in the fields of Sociology and Family science and Marriage and family therapy
what is feminist theory?
focuses on social inequalities that take place on the basis of gender
Rebellion (SFT)
individuals who are similar to those in the retreatism category, except that they also attempt to create a new social structure.
Privilege (FT)
social status given to one with more power and value in society Refers to the social status given to one with more power and value in society
Self-role congruence/incongruence
the role is/is not congruent with one's identity
Self - role congruence/incongruence (SIT)
degree to which a role is congruent (or not) with one's identity.
Expressive Roles (SFT)
the role of women nurturing
Conflict can be classified:
An assumption of conflict theory
Social norms (SIT)
Expectations about how to act in certain situations
Dynamics of Family Violence (ET)
-"Will I be better off?" and "Can I do it?" contribute to the stay or leave decision. -Costs: Afraid of negative impact on children,Religious beliefs e.g. families are forever, feels guilty about things they did wrong, money, fear retaliation, losing children, losing the person you love (love for the abuser) disapproval of family, and friends, loss of job not having the resources, uncertainty of being able to make it in the world. -Rewards: falsely feeling loved, needed and taken care of, being protected, believe things will get better, if says she knows what to expect, sense of control
Stages (FDT)
-(Hill) Probably the most unique aspect of Family Development Theory is its focus on the stages of the family life cycle. These stages are periods of "relative equilibrium in which consensus about the allocation of roles and rules of procedure is high". -(Duvall and Hill) Stages are the result of major changes in family size in the developmental age of the oldest child, or in the work status of the breadwinners.
Developmental Tasks (FDT)
-According to Havighurts, developmental tasks occur at particular points over the life course in respons to either physical maturation or cultural pressures and changes. The individual must respond by developing new abilities, roles, or relationships.
What are Parsons 5 pattern variables that reflect the value orientation of individuals and societies as they make decisions about what actions to take? (SFT)
-Ascription/Achievement- based on the concept of what is earned versus what is biologically predetermined. Ascription describes your individual status, or those things with which you were born, Achievement refers to those things that you earn based on your performance. -Diffuseness/Specificity-refers to the function of relations or the nature of our relationships and how broad or narrow their expectations are. Diffuseness, you have a wide variety of relationships that meet a larger range of needs, Specificity-indicates that you develop relationships that meet a specific need. -Particularism/Universalism-refers to the range of people with whom we come into contact. Particularism refers to the fact that our behaviors are guided by the person with whom we are interacting and nature of that relationship Universalism refers to the fact that we behave in that certain ways based on the norms and values that guide our behavior at a societal level or that dictate what we should and should not do. -Affectivity/ Affective Neutrality-Affectivity approach, then your relationships are based on things such as love, trust, close personal involvement, and other forms of emotion, whereas Affective Neutral is based on what people can do for you or perhaps on what you can do for them. -Collectivity/Self- In the first concept, the focus is on the interests of others or the social group of which one is a part, the second concept the focus is on one's own interests.
What are the parts of a theory?
-Assumptions: are statements that are known to be true about a theory. We assume that everyone knows that most birds can fly. -Concepts or Terms: Are the definitions that are used in the theory. -Propositions: are how the theory is correlated to real life situations. If it is a positive correlation then when one goes up or down the other goes up or down, but when they go in opposite directions then it is negatively correlated.
Dependence, Commitment, and Persistence (ET)
-Dependence is the extent to which a person needs or is reliant on a particular person for a desired relationship outcome. -Feelings of commitment arise with growing dependence. Commitment is a long-term orientation toward a relationship, including feelings of psychological attachment and intentions to persist through both good and bad times.
Positivism
-Family Development and Exchange Theory -Things that just are, for example gravity. For example scientific experiments: have the purpose of being able to Control what is studied and predict the outcome. Deterministic: Cause and Effect.
Critique Family Development Theory
-Family development theory best describes the trajectory of intact, two-parent, heterosexual nuclear families. -also has been criticized by many as being only descriptive and not heuristic. it lacks a sense of usefulness as a theory because it had little predictive power. It described only one particular kind of family (middle class, heterosexual, lifelong couples and their children, and it did not provide much insight into what governed their patterns of behavior.
Conflict/Critical
-Feminist Theory and Conflict Theory -There are 2 groups of people the Haves and Have-nots. Life is viewed as conflict between the 2 groups. These theories raise consciousness of oppression and prejudice, etc. Generally: The Haves do not want change and The Have-nots do want change which can result in revolution, systems changes, etc.
William James (1842-1910) Psychologist
-First scientist to develop a clear concept of "self" 0Humans view themselves as objects, and develop feelings and attitudes toward the self as object - self concept- feelings about self arise out of interactions with others
Costs three categories
-Investment costs are time and energy that an individual will expend to gain a new skill that can be used to reward another. -Opportunity costs: consist of those rewarding feelings or positions that must be given up when selecting some competing alternative. -Direct costs are resources that are used up in an exchange. This could be giving up money for a good or service, such as a weekly housekeeper, or marrying an intelligent person who is not all that attractive.
Family development theory assumptions
-Like individuals, families change over time, and these developmental processes are essential for understanding families. -There are tasks associated with each stage of development -Institutional norms regulate family behavior. -Development is reciprocal: The individual development of each family member influences other family members, as well as the overall development of the family. -Families must be viewed in multiple levels of analysis: Family Development Theory requires that family life be considered in multiple contexts of the society, the family, and the individual. -Families should be viewed over time: Families are not static but change over time.
Inductive process is?
-Observations of 3 families with troubled teens leads to empirical generalization about all families with teens. -Research on a group of individuals leading to a new theory -Your hypothesis, eating Twinkies twice a day will make people gain weight, was supported in your research study. Based on this finding you suggest that its not just Twinkies that make you fat: it's probably all Hostess snack, cakes, that make you fat.
What are they different types of boundaries? (FST)
-Open families- are basically democratic; the rights of individuals are protected and interactions with outsiders are permitted. There is also consensus and flexibility and family members are bound together by love and respect. -Random family-the members are seen as disengaged and their commitment to and investments in the family are transitory. -Closed family- in this type of family family members are enmeshed or overly involved in each other's lives. Individual identities are not permitted, and family boundaries close off much of the outside world.
Assumptions of Exchange Theory
-People are motivated by self-interest -Individuals are constrained by their Choices -Humans are rational beings -Social relationships are also characterized by interdependence and reciprocity
What are the assumptions of Symbolic Interactionism Theory?
-People will react to something according to the meaning the thing has for them -We learn about meaning through interactions with others -As people come into contact with different things and experiences, they interpret what is being learned.
Socialization occurs in two stages (SIT)
-Play Stage-simplified childhood roletaking-imitating the roles of people they know. -Game Stage-involves taking many roles at the same time-much more complex-involves empathizing with numerous other players and understanding where they are coming from. -Causes of human behavior-looking within the individual, to their thoughts and feelings-their interpretation of the norms and expectations of society-their viewpoint on choosing to conform or deviate from norms.
Change (FDT)
-Something changes when it undergoes a transformation from one stage to another for example, John and Natasha Morrison's experience of family will be different when their last child graduates high school and moves to New York, leaving them with their house all to them selves.
What are the stages and their?
-Stage 1: Establishment phase. Courtship and marriage -Stage 2: Childbearing families; families with infants -Stage 3: Families with preschool children: Adapting to the critical needs and interests of preschool children in stimulating, growth-promoting ways. Coping with energy depletion and lack of privacy as parents. -Stage 4: Families with school age children: Fitting into the community of school-age families in constructive ways. Encouraging children's educational achievements. -Stage 5: Families with adolescents -Stage 6: Families with young adults; the "launching Stage" -Stage 7: The middle years -Stage 8: Aging family members
Interpretive
-Symbolic Theory, Structural Functionalism, and Systems Theory -"It depends." What is important is how each person interprets it regardless of fact. For example: Fact: Someone smiled at me. Possible Interpretations: They like me, They want a date OR They are just being polite. In other words, it's the book we write, which may or may not be based on the actual but rather because we believe it is our truth.
Basic Assumptions of Structure Functionalism Theory
-The function of families is to procreate and socialize children. -All systems have functions.
True Statements about Family Developmental Theory
-The theory is one of the first and only ones that was developed specifically out of an interest in families and thus focuses exclusively on the family. -Developmental tasks are norms arising at a particular stage of the family life cycle. -Not all families follow the cycle from beginning to end.
Family Systems Theory Basic Assumptions
-The whole is greater than the sum of the parts-A family is much more than a collection of individuals who live together and are related to each other; it has a holistic quality. The parts are interconnected such that individual members can be understood only within the context of the whole. -Individual and family behavior must be understood in context: therefore, all behavior must be understood as serving a function in the context in which it developed. e.g. Lakesha is normally studious and responsible frequently participating in class and helping children around her. When the teacher pulls Lakesha aside, she learns that Lakesha has been concerned about her little brother. -A family is a gaol-seeking system -A family is a self reflexive and self regulating system, continually influenced by feedback. -Family systems are defined by their communication: Individual members act and react based on meanings that they send and receive. Verbal messages, nonverbal messages, context, and shared history impact the message received. -The locust of pathology is not within the person but is a system dysfunction-•When a person appears to have a problem, the problem is not within them, but in the system
Symbolic Interaction: Basic Principles
-Thoughts are shaped by social interaction in which individuals learn meanings and symbols -Humans act toward things based on the meanings the things have for them -Meaning arises out of social interaction between self and others -Meanings can be modified depending on an individual's interpretation of the situation. -Patterns of action and interaction make up groups and societies.
Transitions (FDT)
-are the processes that form a bridge between the different stages when something changes. -its the shift in roles and identities encountered with changes in developmental stages.
Herbert Blumer
-coined the term "symbolic interactionism" -A symbol is anything capable of having multiple meanings -Symbolic interaction notes the process of interpersonal interaction which requires the sharing of symbolic meaning.
Role Making (SIT)
-defining and communicating one's role to others -improvise, explore, and judge appropriate role based on situation and responses to others rather than upon a set of previously learned scripts or sets of expectations. -Spontaneity in social roles.
-Individuals are constrained by their Choices (ET)
-it is within that range of possible choices that we strive to understand ones motivations. -Nye in fact, concluded that the theory is more about choice than exchange.
Charles Horton Cooley
-looking glass self -gestures give impression of how we appear to others -assessment of how others are evaluating us -self evaluation-pride or mortification based on other's perceived assessments
What is Family Development Theory
-rather than focusing on crises in families family developmental theorists focus on things that happen more normatively, such as marriages, childbirth, developmental and educational milestones, and passage of time.
What is exchange theory
-social application of rational choice theory. states that people do decision making using a cost benefit analysis -an extension of rational choice theory. focuses on interactions in groups. anticipated rewards, punishments.
Structure Various definitions (SFT)
-the arrangement of and relations between the parts or elements of something complex. -Construct or arrange according to a plan; give a pattern or organization to.
Disentanglement Process from abusive relationships. (ET)
1) Begins with seeds of doubts 2) includes various: Turning points, reappraisals, Objective reflections: take a step out side of self and see it as an outsider would, self reclaiming actions take back self..."hey I don't want you to call me that anymore" or "its really ok if I call and talk to friends". 3) Paradigmatic shifts "last straw event" e.g. seeing fear in child's eyes...
Cycle of Violence
1) Building-anger builds up 2) Violence-small trigger 3) Honeymoon-apologies and increased intimacy -each time the cycle goes around it goes faster and violence gets more severe. -operant conditioning if someone does a behavior and you get rewarded you will do it again, in abusive relationships they are rewarded in the honeymoon phase after the physical abuse.
Commitment is enhanced by three variables. (ET)
1) a high level of satisfaction with the relationship. When a partner meets one's needs and expectations for the relationship, based on experience or comparison with others, satisfaction is likely to be good. 2) Commitment is stronger when alternatives are perceived to be unavailable or unattractive. 3) Commitment becomes stronger depending on the investment each has made in their partner and the relationship . For instance, partners may invest resources (e.g. effort, self-disclosure, Identity, time) directly into the relationship and experience other resources (e.g. mutual friends, children, shared memories, possessions, changed name) that become linked to the relationship.
Critiques of Symbolic Interactionism Theory
1. Key concepts difficult to define and confusing and thus difficult to test with research. 2. Concepts and ideas have not been combined into one central theory. 3. Does not give enough attention to emotions or the unconscious. 4. Places to much emphasis on the ability of individuals to create their own realities. There is not enough attention on the fact that we live in a world that we do not create ourselves. 5. The role of power is neglected. 6. Lack of attention to the role of biology. 7. It has the capability to grow and change with the times. It has the capability to focus on family interactions and the roles that individuals play in those social acts.
Overarching theme for Symbolic Interactionism Theory
1. Meaning is a central element of human behavior. People will react to something according to the meaning the thing has for them. We learn about meaning through interaction with others. As people come into contact with different experiences, they interpret what is being learned. 2. Because humans are active social beings who interact with others based on their meaning of a situation, they must have a sense of self. A human infant is asocial. Once individuals develop a sense of self, this will provide motivations for future behavior. 3. The environment of an infant has symbols and values that were assigned at birth. Individuals are influenced by society. People learn the rules and values of society through everyday interaction with that culture.
3 primary premises of the symbolic interaction theory
1. Our actions are based on the meaning we give to situations, events, people, etc. An individual develops a self that has two parts. The "me" that consists of objective qualities and the "I" that is the subjective awareness of self. People will react to something according to the meaning that the thing has for them. McDonalds represents to one person as a symbol of greasy, fattening food. To another it is a place of comfort, happiness, and a place to go to relax while children play. 2. The meanings arise from the interaction process. They arrant fixed but are negotiable and changeable. People must also "take the attitude of the other" to be able to anticipate what the other persons will do and decide how they should respond. Once individuals develop a sense of self, this provides motivation for future behavior. Humans are reflexive - we reflect on what we've experienced and use this as a guide for future behavior. 3. The meanings we give to situations are the result of the interpretive procedures we use. People are able to interact effectively only if they can communicate using a common language (shared symbols). Individuals are influenced by society. People learn the rules and values of society through everyday interactions within their culture.
How is the belief system and God-couple relationship sustained? (SIT)
1. Personifies the Deity 2. Guides the marital relationship as it sets a pattern for marital behavior 3. Characterizes God's interest and intimate involvement in the marriage
Rituals (SIT)
A collection of social norms within a family
Norm of Reciprocity (ET)
A cornerstone of social exchange theory, the norm of reciprocity is the social expectation or rule that dictates that people should help those who have helped them. This is an important norm because an effective, ongoing society cannot function without it.
Give an example of a healthy triangle (SIT)
A couple tries to decide how to use their tax return. After they have reviewed the costs and benefits of a particular purchase they decide to bring God in and pray for a confirmation. "I have been missing you lately and I need some adult conversation. Would you block off some time to spend together Friday night?"
How are families unique so we need family theories to work with this "unique animal"
A family is a system within society. So sociology would not work because it is based on the society as a whole and the family is a unit in that whole, and it can't be based on the individual like psychology because the family is bigger than any one person therefor we need theories to fit the separate but unified system called the family.
Second set of Assumptions
A human infant is asocial Once individuals develop a sense of self, this will provide motivation for future behavior.
What is the difference between reward and a profit? (ET)
A reward is something that you enjoy something that makes you feel good and a profit is a reward minus the cost equals the profit.
Roles (SIT)
A set of social norms for a specific situation
Interaction (SIT)
A social behavior between two or more individuals during which some type of communication occurs that causes each person to react to the situation and subsequently modify their behavior.
Equilibrium (FST)
A state of balance is a tendency for any system to seek a balance between stability and change in the variety of its behaviors and rules.
What is conflict theory?
A theoretical perspective that emphasizes the role of power and coercion in producing social order. The haves vs. the have-nots.
Structure Functionalism Theory
A theory that seeks to explain social organization and change in terms of the roles performed by different social structures, phenomena, and institutions; also known as functionalism
According to Symbolic Interactionism Theory, the researcher or practitioner should:
A) Pay attention to how individuals interpret events B) Consider how cultural meanings affects social behavior C) Look for commonly shared signs and symbols
Assertion (CT)
Acting in a way that affirms one's rights and positions but does not necessarily do so at the expense of others.
-Stage 8:
Aging family members: Coping with bereavement and living alone. Closing the family home and adapting it to aging. Adjusting to retirement.
Rewards (ET)
All of the things in a person's physical, social, and psychological world that are experienced as pleasurable are considered rewards.
Theories:
Are a set of propositions which explain a social phenomena and inform research
Stratification (FT)
Assigning a certain value to specific groupings of people. Refers to the application of value to different categories
The concept of socialization includes the process of learning the symbols, beliefs, and attitudes of our culture. According to Mead, when we become socialized to play our roles in society and we understand how our roles fit in with the roles of others, we are in the:
B) game stage
Second Overarching Theme of Symbolic Interactionism Theory
Because humans are active social beings who interact with others based on their meaning of a situation, they must have a sense of self for this to take place.
Impression Management (SIT)
Because we want others to have a good impression of us, we will take on roles in public that fit within the social norms of our current environment.
Deviant behavior (SFT)
Behaviors that deviate from social norms.
Innovation (SFT)
Being both conforming and deviant (e.g. man who attains material success but attains it in an illegal way).
Coalition Triangles (SIT)
Both partners attempt to draw a third person into alliance against the other partner. Compromising the relationship in two ways: 1. they displace God from a neutral position 2. They avoid sharing responsibility and focus on blame God-couple triangles is when each spouse competes intensely for the allegiance of God, but neither is assured that they have it. They are attempting to shift the balance of power and focus on blame, guilt, and sin rather than working on change and growth. 1. use the authority they are speaking for God. 2. Rely on distortions of the bible
Instrumental Roles (SFT)
Breadwinner, the man's job.
Negative feedback loop
Causes a system to change in the opposite direction from which it is moving or to go back to the original way of doing things to maintain homeostasis.
-Stage 2:
Childbearing families; families with infants: Having adjusting to, and encouraging the development of infants
What paradigm (philosophy) does Conflict Theory stem from?
Conflict Paradigm: There are two groups of people the haves and the have-nots. The haves want to keep things the way they are but the have-nots want to make changes so they can have.
conflict management (CT)
Conflict is maintained but negotiated into a stable state
Contributions of Charles Horton Cooley (1902,1909) (SIT)
Cooley (2 O's in a row which look like glasses) "looking-glass self". Horton Cooley developed the "The Looking Glass Self". The assessment of how others evaluate us, and the gestures they use toward us help us make a self-evaluation. 1. Individuals think about how they appear to others. 2. Individuals make a judgment about what the other person thinks about them. 3. Individuals incorporate those ideas into their own concept of self. - Refined James' idea of the self and self coming out of interaction with others. - Gestures give impressions of how we appear to others - Assessment of how others are evaluating us. - Self- evaluation - pride or mortification based on other's perceived assessments. Note: The notion that the self is capable of reflecting on its own behavior was incorporated in Mead's Mind Self and Society
Displacement Triangles (SIT)
Couple conflict is diffused through displacement of anxiety onto a third person, who then becomes the focus of the couple's negative energy. God couple Displacement creates a pseudoharmony -focusing on religion and God kept them from dealing directly with each other. They project responsibility for marital problems onto God Couple is drawn together through their union against "religion".
Role Strain (SIT)
Difficult in enacting one's role due to multiple demands and insufficient resources
Role Strain (SIT)
Difficulty in enacting one's role due to multiple demands and insufficient resources
Conflict (CT)
Direct confrontation
Reality
Doesn't exist out there it is actively created as we act in and toward the world-how we perceive our environment will determine how we act on it -people remember and base their knowledge on the world on what has proven useful to them.
Decision Making (ET)
Donnelly and Burgess employed social exchange to analyze the decision to stay in an involuntarily celibate relationship. The authors were interested in the ways in which participants evaluated the costs and rewards of remaining ins such a relationship as well as their perceptions with regard to what they thought they deserved or was normal and the likelihood of getting something more rewarding from an alternative relationship. By recognizing that life is about social exchanges, with their resultant rewards and costs, one can take the time to carefully and clearly evaluate one's logic and decision making.
Joy tells her husband that she wants him to be more open in his communication with her and share his feelings with her. When her husband Kevin does open up to her she gets really upset and yells and screams at him for his insensitivity to her feelings. This is an example of: (FST)
Double Bind
Belief Systems (SIT)
Enable people to create their reality through selective perception and organization of experience. Relating these patterns to self and relationships generates life meaning. Evolve through a process of interactive feedback and are generated through mutual experience. Is a major foundation of relationships. Shared beliefs help create, define, and maintain relational systems.
Neutrality (SIT)
Entails awareness of one's own emotional reactivity and control of "automatic responses."
Entropy and Energy (FST)
Entropy is the natural tendency of s system to move from order to disorder; loss of energy, connection and focus. Energy-new information or input. is the lifeblood of systems. Open and permeable boundaries make the flow of energy into a system more likely.
Stage 1:
Establishment phase. Courtship and marriage: Establishing a mutually satisfying marriage Adjusting to pregnancy and the promise of parenthood. Fitting into the kin network
"Gender is a socially constructed concept" Means that:
Gender roles are defined by society, not by our biology.
Gestures (SIT)
Gestures give impressions of how we appear to others - Assessment of how others are evaluating us. - Self- evaluation - pride or mortification based on other's perceived assessments.
How is God used in Triangling? (SIT)
God is used to diffuse tension or create unity. Seeing their relationship through divine perspective facilitates their stepping out of their emotionally reactive position to become more detached neutral observers of their system. Couples use the divine triangle to foster responsibility, maintain neutrality, and nurture relationships.
Contributions of Herbert Blumer (SIT)
He "blumer" or stumbled onto the term "Symbolic Interactionism" - The first person to use the term symbolic interactionism - A symbol is anything capable of having multiple meanings - Symbolic interaction notes the process of interpersonal interaction which requires the sharing of symbolic meaning. - credited with developing the three primary premises of symbol interactionism
Contributions of Mead (SIT)
His name starts with M-E, so he had the "Me" and "I" idea. The notion that the self is capable of reflecting on its own behavior was incorporated in Mead's Mind Self and Society - Two basic concepts underlying SI: "self" and "mind" - Self: the ability to step outside yourself and treat yourself as an object in the environment. - Describe the self (personal traits) - Act toward yourself Mind: Reflective thinking, making indications to self • Defining the situation • Giving meaning to objects and people within the situation • Assessing alternative courses of action • Anticipating consequences alternatives
Role Clarity (SIT)
How clearly one understands the expectations of a role
Role ambiguity (SIT)
How confused one is about role expectations
Symbolic Interaction
How we perceive or define our situation influences how we act or react to it. Everyone has their own interpretation of situations and events based upon their own personal socialization.
Once individuals develop a sense of self, this will provide motivation for future behavior. (SIT)
Humans are reflexive, they will always reflect on what they experience and use it as a guide for future behavior. This process entails not only a sense of self but also a sense of how others view you. -People often respond to a situation based not only on their own beliefs and values but also on how they think others will perceive that behavior.
Choose an episode/experience from your life and BRIEFLY explain its outcome using exchange theory.
I was married to an man that was abusive. When I was going to leave him I found out I was pregnant. I had to decided if raising my daughter without a father was a greater coast to me then staying and allowing him to treat me this way. I had to decide what was the greater cost and what would end up being the most rewarding. I chose to leave. I felt the cost of raising my daughter in an abusive relationship was not worth it.
A basic assumption of exchange theory is the individuals are rational. This means that:
If several individuals find themselves in the same situation with the same exact information, and they find the same things rewarding, they will all likely act in the same way.
Individuals are influenced by Society (SIT)
Individuals are influenced not only by their own self-concepts and the values, symbols, and beliefs of their families, but also by the cultural norms and values of the society in which they live.
Third Overarching Theme of Symbolic Interactionism Theory
Infants are not born into a social vacuum. Instead, the environment of an infant has symbols and values that were assigned at birth.
Level of differentiation (SIT)
Is determined by the degree to which persons can keep emotional and intellectual systems disentangled. The lower the level of differentiation in a couple, or the greater the entanglement of emotional and intellectual systems, the greater the propensity toward emotional reactivity and trangulation.
What do clinicians need to be aware of when working with belief systems? (SIT)
It is important for clinicians to be aware of the "loaded" software associated with people who have belief systems.
Triangulation (SIT)
It is revealed through observing emotional process rather than content. Is an emotional process.
What are the critiques of Feminist Family Theory
It oppresses men because it focuses only on issues that affect women It works outside the parameters and paradigms of the scientific base of knowledge( it is hard to be objective with this theory) It is an activist position and should be addressed by those with power and privilege. It works against the traditional, nuclear families. Pays too much attention to the oppression of one group: women. Men feel that there is no place for them in this movement.
Critique of SFT
It puts women on the expressive role and sometimes they do not want to be in just that role.
When an individual is evaluating the profit available to them they may use either the Comparison Level of Comparison Level for Alternatives. Which of the answers below shows an example of Comparison Level? (ET)
John compares his marriage with his brother Allan's marriage to determine if he (John) has a good marriage (i.e. profiting in his marriage).
Critiques of symbolic interaction theory
Lacks basic set of assumptions, concepts, and organized guidelines like other theories. Doesn't give enough attention to either the importance of emotions or the role of the unconscious. Has too much emphasis on people's abilities to create their own realities and not enough attention to the fact that we live in a world we didn't create ourselves. The role of power is neglected. Lack of attention to the role of biology.
Caregiving and Intergenerational Exchange (ET)
Many societies assume that parents will be "reimbursed" for the costs of bearing and rearing children (time, money, worry, etc...) when they are old and their adult children take care of them.
Differentiated (SIT) Triangles work to diffuse tension.
Members of three-person systems but not engaged in triangulation. They promote the couple relationship, not the triangle. Partners who are differentiated keep the "problem in the relationship from which it is attempting to escape," and work for resolution there. This results in engaging in three simultaneous processes: 1. maintaining a relationships with each person in the triangle by having ongoing regard and empathy with profound respect for the marital boundary 2. achieving emotional neutrality 3. disentangling from the conflict and promoting couple responsibility for its resolution -Understand God's Nature -Seek to Respond as the Lord would -Ask "Lord is it I?"
Timing is an important concept in this theory. What is they types of time referred to in the book?
Ontogenetic time Generational time and Historical time.
Creating Equilibrium (SFT)
Needs Exist so then we create structures and in the structure there are different functions of the structure which meets the needs of the group.
Gestures (SIT)
Non-verbal communication that represents something else
Conformity (SFT)
Nondeviance is the same as comformity.
Sex (FT)
One's biological assignment based on genetics
What is symbolic Theory
People will react to something according to the meaning that that thing has for them (the meaning being created through our interactions with society, culture, and other people). People define situations based on their own personal experiences and sense of self. Two people can be in the exact same situation and have different interpretations of what is going on. Symbolic Interactionism helps us understand miscommunication.
The Jones family is concerned about their son Poinsettia, who as begun to act out in the first grade around Christmas time. They seek counseling to help him. In this situation, what is the "identified patient" (FST)
Poinsettia
Exchange theory stems from which paradigm? Why?
Positivistic: Things that just are, for example gravity. For example scientific experiments: have the purpose of being able to Control what is studied and predict the outcome. Deterministic: Cause and Effect.
Role Conflict (SIT)
Possessing multiple roles each having different expectations
Role Conflict (SIT)
Possessing multiple roles, each one having different expectations (causes role strain)
Self fulfilling prophecy (SIT)
Pressures to conform to the expectations of others. -Circular pattern exist: individual enacts behavior others tend to expect individual to act that way individual give into pressures e.g. child shoplifts, we label shoplifter-a deviant not to be trusted, act toward child based on suspicion child feels pressure to conform somethings unconsciously to these expectations.
Strengths of symbolic interaction theory
Provides a great framework for organizing or influencing research. Has the capacity to grow and change with the times (applicable across time). Focuses on family interactions and the roles that individuals play in those social acts. Social interactionism reminds us that we are all social beings, playing role and learning from one another.
Role taking (SIT)
Putting oneself in the place of others
Role taking (SIT)
Putting oneself in the place of the other
What research method would you use for Symbolic Interactionism Theory?
Qualitative. Interviews etc.
The Benchmark Family (SFT)
Refers to the traditional nuclear family composed of a husband a wife, and their children, with the husband as breadwinner, and the wife as homemaker.
Intervening with the Theory
Reframing-Fly in the Soup Changing ones view on a situation or way of life. e.g. women trying to quit smoking parents was in concentration camp WWII. Talking about overcoming smoking and therapist said I want you to take three envelopes and put $25 in them and address them to the Natzi association of Germany and the next time you smoke a cigaret mail them that donation because in essence you are helping them kill another Jew.
Responsibility (SIT)
Requires behavioral and verbal communication between partners that invites acceptance of each person's responsibility for the problem and recognition that resolution to the problem needs to preserve the boundaries of the marriage rather than drawing in third parties. It models a problem-solving rather than problem-avoiding orientation to relationships, and it guards the couple's boundaries.
What factors make adolescents a challenging Stage? (FDT)
Research shows amygdala (gut reaction, emotional processing reactions are more prevalent w/o frontal lobes; teens don't use rational judgment in emotional situations Teens also don't use "gut" when it would be useful. Frontal lobes executive function not fully developed until young adulthood; planning, thinking ahead, self regulation, impulse control, social rules and interactions.
Profit (ET)
Rewards minus cost equals Profit. People strive to gain the most rewards with the fewest costs. When they do they have profited.
Miscommunication in Families (SIT)
Secrets Family secrets push people away, creating distance and disintegrating relationships Secrets promote superficiality and prevent healing Secrets hurt more than the immediate people involved Why are secrets detrimental? Superficial communication Creates distance Will eventually blow up Prevents Healing
I and Me (George Mead) (SIT)
Self is not a thing, but rather a process based on constant movement between the "I" and the "Me". I being your automatic reaction to things and Me being the part of yourself that understands society's rules and how you should react in a situation. 1. "I" = the impulsive, spontaneous, unpredictable part of the self (the spontaneous self)—immediate reactions to situations. Acting without thinking/usually preceded by emotions 2. "Me" = the thinking part of self (the social self - generalized other)—learned roles determined by interactions with others. Actions preceded by thought. Based on our goals, competencies, expectations of others in the environment (combined expectations of others is referred to as the "generalized other")
What is Structural Functionalism Theory?
Society is an orderly system of interconnected parts that perform functions and work together in harmony to maintain stability. focuses on the structure and workings of a society or culture. Institutions (ex. Family) perform functions for society . The Emphasis is on explaining HOW individuals Cooperate for the stability, harmony and evolution of society
Critique of Family Systems Theory?
Some believe that Systems Theory is more of a model or flowchart then a theory.
Transitional Stage (FDT)
Stage I Beginning Families Stage II Childbearing Families Stage III Families with Preschool children Stage IV Families with School-aged Children Stage V Families with Teenagers Stage VI Families Launching Young Adults Stage VII Middle Aged Parents Stage VII Families in Retirement and Old Age
Mead: cover mental process occurring between the time that a stimulus was applied and response was emitted
Stimulus-interpret-act
Definition of the situation (SIT)
Stresses the importance of perceptions Example: while her time with me was what she considered important I didn't consider it on the same level that she did.
Terms and Concepts for Symbolic Interactionism Theory
Symbols, interaction, gestures, social norms, rituals, roles, salience, identity
Instrumental (SFT)
Tasks that need to be performed within a family to ensure its physical survival.
Dynamics of families with teens (FDT)
Tasks: Balance freedom and responsibility, Another of the Parents tasks-finding Post-parental interests, Teen years are typically one of the most expensive stages. -Important events to teens: social relationships -Teens need to develop a sense of self and personal identity. Success leads to an ability to stay true to yourself, while failure leads to role confusion and a week sense of self -Physical changes: Weight-up to 20-25 lbs in one year, Hight Girls start at 11 peak 12 done by 15; Boys start 13 peak 14 done by 17; fist head hands feet, next arms and legs, last trunk and shoulders; Secondary Sex Characteristics and Sexual maturation-ability to reproduce. -Teenagers are very attentive to physical changes; Girls are more critical of their appearance and boys are more likely to be pleased.
Power (CT)
The ability to control the direction or course or action of others.
Salience (SIT)
The amount of value or importance we place on our prescribed role in our lives. We divide our time among each of our roles based on the amount of salience that role has in our lives. A person has multiple identities. Identities are ordered in a salience hierarchy, defined as the likelihood that an identity will be involved in a variety of situations. Salience helps us link commitment and role choice.
Critique of Exchange theory
The assumption that the family is just a collection of individuals is too simplistic for many theorists. For some, the family has too many unique and long-lasting aspects to be reduced basically to an economic system with interchangeable characters.
What must exist for the perpetuating of shared beliefs in religious marriages and to structure God-coupled triangles? (SIT)
The blending of key words, symbols, histories, language, rituals, storytelling, and histories in defining God's relationships with couples. Language - the nature of questions asked and the solutions proposed for problems. How the couple describes and interprets the "hand of God" in the mundane and extraordinary events of life. Religious couples depict God as united with the marriage in a "divine triangle"—the marriage is belonging to God. Language ratifies the belief that God is a member of the marital system. Rituals - ceremonies that are rich in symbolic meaning that communicate God's interest and involvement in the marriage. Highly routine sequence of family life that reinforces rituals and support the belief system. Prayers invoke God's guidance in their day and provide accountability and gratitude at its close. Histories - Stories become metaphors of the God-couple relationships and become symbolic in providing an enduring, stable, and resistant to contradictory information.
In what way does the doctrine of the LDS church agree with feminism in general?
The church believes that men and women are equally valued. We believe that women have just as much right and access to the spirit as men do. Feminism also believes in the equality of women. They believe that men and women should be treated as equals.
Structure (SFT)
The composition of the family
Undifferentiation (SIT)
The emotional reactivity (in response to anxiety) that drives the process.
Comparison Level (ET)
The evaluation of the profitability of our relationships against what we feel we deserve is our comparison level-that is we compare the rewards and costs we are experiencing in a relationship and judge our feelings about them based on our ideas of what should be the fair outcome for us.
Negotiation and bargaining (CT)
The exchange process designed to reach a collective agreement on a disputed issue.
Critiques of Social Exchange Theory
The family is too complex to say that it is just about an economic system full of costs and rewards. There is way more to a family unit than this.
Identified Patient
The family member whose symptoms or behaviors are stated by the family as the reason for coming to therapy.
During the early days of the church, members were allowed to have multiple wives (a new structure). From a Structural/Functionalism perspective why would this be allowed at that time?
The function of having more than one wife was to aid in the survival of those women who have lost their husbands due to being killed. it also helped economically, and served as a function to build the church with more kids.
Categorization (FT)
The process of applying labels to behaviors and roles according to one's sex. Process of applying labels to behaviors and roles according to one's sex.
Triangles (SIT)
The relational structure that results from humanity's emotional reactivity in combination with the tendency to avoid conflict, even at the cost of failing to resolve problems.
Expressive (SFT)
The relationship interactions necessary for the psychological satisfaction of family members are expressive in nature.
Substitutive Triangles (SIT)
The relationship with a third person substitutes for and diverts from the original dyadic relationship. They rally in support of a common cause, sick or needy triangle person. In God-couples substitutive triangles, manage anxiety by distancing from their marital partner and striving for surrogate intimacy with God. Triangulation exists when the relationship with God is anesthetic enabling endurance. Detriangulation exists when the relationship with God empowers the person to work patiently toward resolution of problems in the marriage.
Identity (SIT)
The roles that are most salient in our lives define our identity
According to family development theory the most important factor to consider is?
The stage of the family life course.
Family Development assumptions focus on?
The systematic and patterned changes experienced y families.
What is a critique of Family Development Theory
The theory focuses on just one type of family and that is a headerasexua family where the wife and husband stay married and it focuses on the oldest child.
Sexual Behavior (ET)
The theory would posit that sex is more profitable for males than it is for females. This is because pregnancy is more costly for women than it is for men, and males achieve orgasm more consistently than do females. As a result males must make sexual relations more profitable for females by offering them additional rewards. Van de Rijt and Macy used social exchange to examine "labors of love" and discovered that the most intimate of behaviors-sex-has exchange value in close relationships.
Symbols (SIT)
Their meaning is given to us by the ways we see others using them.
All Systems have functions (SFT)
Theoretical work has focused principally on the functions carried out by the family and what these functions accomplish. The main function of any social system, including the family is simply to maintain its basic structure.
Comparison Level for Alternatives (ET)
Thibaut and Kelley also note that individuals will compare their outcomes in a particular relationship with alternative relationships that may be out there. For instance Nicholas, fifteen years from now, may meet another woman who is more physically attractive and exciting than his wife Alyssa. Because he determines that divorce having to share custody of his children, and changing locations and families involve considerable expenseNicholas may decide that leaving his marriage to Alyssa to be with a beautiful new woman is not worth the cost after all.
A human infant is a social (SIT)
This means that infants are bot born with predetermined ideas about who they are but develop these ideas as they interact with people along the way.
-Humans are rational beings (ET)
This means that we have the analytical ability to calculate the ratio of rewards to costs. Based on information that we possess, we consider the alternatives before acting and choose the outcome that is deemed to be the most profitable or the option that are evaluated varies from one person to another as well across time.
-People are motivated by self-interest (ET)
This means that we seek those things and relationships that are beneficial to ourselves.
-Social relationships are also characterized by interdependence and reciprocity (ET)
This means that, to gain a profit in an exchange, we must provide the other person with rewards as well. All parties must expect some rewards to continue the relationship or interaction. Social exchanges are regulated by the expectations or norms of reciprocity and fairness.
Critique of Structure Functionalism Theory
This theory overlooks variations, social inequality, conflicts and change. Too general / macro. Blames individuals for problems. Too conservative.
Contributions of W. I. & D.S Thomas (1928) (SIT)
Thomas the Train is a kids show, "if people define situations as real, they are real in their consequences." - Premise of "definition of the situation" - Stresses the importance of perceptions - According to the pragmatists 1. Reality doesn't exist "out there" it is actively created as we act in and toward the world. - How we perceive or define our situation influences how we act or react to it. - wrote a book with Florian Znaniecki that was the first to state that the family has a role in the socialization process and that families construct their own realities. - coined the phrase definition of situation, which means you cannot understand human behavior without also understanding the subjective perspectives of the people involved in the interaction.
The historical foundation of symbolic Interactionism can be traced to William Issac Thomas, Charles Cooley, Herbert Blumer and George Mead. Choose one of them and provide their main contribution?
Thomas: Definition of the Situation The definition of the situation is again how individual people interpret a situation, that people will define that situation differently. That reality depends on how each person defines that situation. Cooley: developed the "The Looking Glass Self". The assessment of how others evaluate us, and the gestures they use toward us help us make a self-evaluation. Blumer: coined the term "Symbolic Interactionism". A symbol is anything capable of having multiple meanings. A symbolic interaction notes the process of interpersonal interaction which requires the sharing of symbolic meaning. Mead: was interested in how individuals construct meaningful behavior. Self is constant movement between I and me. "I" (the spontaneous self)—immediate reactions to situations. The Me is the thinking part of ourselves. That's the part when you think about, "should I do this?" What would other people think?
How do families maintain or move to a new homeostasis? (FST)
Through feedback loops.
Timing (FDT)
Timing as normative recognizes that social prescriptions exist as to when individuals and families are to engage in particular behaviors and accomplish certain task.
How can we apply symbolic interaction theory?
We can view social interactions between individuals within relationships and families, and can provide meaning as to why individuals act and react the way they do in certain situations.
Salience (SIT)
We divide our time among each of our roles based on the amount of salience that role has in our lives. Salience is a specification of self, elaborated from the multifaceted view of self. Person have multiple identities. Identities are ordered a salience hierarchy, defined as the likelihood that an identity will be invoked in a variety of situations. Linking commitment and role choice. Measuring the importance of their identities.
Feedback (FST)
a family system corrects itself-tries to regain homeostasis or tries to incorporate change through the use of feedback loops. Feedback refers to the response a family member makes to the behavior of another person particularly when he or she deviate from existing patterns of interaction.
Positive Feedback Loops
a feedback loop in which change in a system is amplified creating a new homeostasis.
Rule of Distributive Justice, Norm of Fairness, and Equity
a relationship between two people must be roughly equal. On the one hand, if one person is receiving most of the rewards while the other pays the costs, the latter individual will feel angry or used and may try to end the exchange. The partner doing most of the receiving is likely to feel guilty. On the other hand, when one gives and receives about the same, satisfaction is likely to be the result.
Family System Theory
a theory that views the family as a system of interacting parts whose interactions exhibit consistent patterns and unstated rules focuses on continuous circular interactions between members and the members' perception of the interaction think circular- not linear linear means cause and effect
Role Consensus/ Dissensus (SIT)
agreement/disagreement on what constitutes appropriate behavior for a role
Role consensus/dissensus (SIT)
agreement/disagreement on what constitutes appropriate behavior for a role
Boundaries (FST)
are lines of demarcation that distinguish a system from its environment, and affect the flow of energy and information between the two. A family maintains its boundaries by filtering out any external elements that seem hostile to the goals and policies of the family while at the same time incorporating those that are deemed beneficial.
Role conflict (SIT)
conflict among the roles connected to two or more statuses possessing multiple roles, each one having different expectations (causes role strain)
Reciprocal roles (SIT)
corresponding roles that define the patterns of interaction between related statuses the mutual, opposite but complementary give-and-take involved in a role
family development theory
examines the changes that families experience over the lifespan families go through different stages and adapt to those changes
There are three different trees for each of the different philosophies of science or paradigms of: positivism, interpretive, and critical or conflict. What does symbolic interaction theory stem from?
interpretive. It's the "it depends' theory. We react based on how we interpret things. It depends on how you see it, your culture, your background, what works for you.
Role clarity (SIT)
involves how early and clearly one understands expectations associated with their role.
The Function of families is to procreate and Socialize children: (SFT)
is basically a theory of social survival. the idea is that families perform the critical function of procreation and socialization of children so that they will fit into the overall society.
System (SFT)
is essentially any set of objects with their attributes that relate to each other in a way that creates a new "super entity". The family is a social system. it is a boundary-maintained unit composed of interrelated and interdependent parts such that an alteration in one part affects all components of the system.
Describe Distributive Justice (ET)
is kind of like a I scratch your back you scratch mine. When one person is doing the most work they should get the most reward. It should be fair.
First Overarching Theme
is that meaning is a central element of human behavior. This is best explained by reviewing the three assumptions that developed this primary belief.
Deductive
is where we start with a theory and work our way to the research/observation Start wide and narrow down
Inductive:
is where we start with the observation and work our way up to a theory. Starting small working up to wide.
The family process dimension of "time" is critical to understanding and explaining family change. Time is best measured in family development theory as...
life events time (stages depend on your current life events)
3 Key Components of Communication (SIT)
meaning language thought
Mind (SIT)
nvolves talking things over in one's mind (thinking) - Indications of self prior to action. - Should I do this or should I do that? - Kronks mission The decision on how to act is based upon: - The "definition of the situation" - Alternative lines of possible action - The probable consequences - How do consequences fit into one's system of values and goals
Family Roles (FST)
recurring patterns of behavior developed through interaction that family members use to fulfill family functions David Kantor and William Lehr identified 4 player parts in the family 1) the mover initiates action. 2) the opposer disapproves of the mover's actions and tries to block it. 3) the Follower approves of the mover's actions or the opposer's actions and thus empowers the side with whom he or she allies. 4)the bystander witnesses the action of the mover, but is passive about overtly aligning with the mover or the opposer. In addicted families there is the 1)dependent person( or the addict) 2) the enabler-referred to as the codependent who helps him/her to avoid the consequences of their behavior. 3) the hero-usually the first born, always gets A's in school, appears to have it all together. 4) The second child the delinquent or scapegoated-always in trouble, 5) the invisible child-who just keeps a low profile in the hope that it will help lessen family tensions.
Ritualism (SFT)
refers to continuing a pattern of behavior even if it is not successful, because that is the way it has always been done.
Structure (SFT)
refers to the composition of the family, or what members make up the family institution within a particular society.
Retreatism (SFT)
refers to the person who rejects both the normative gals and the means to obtain them. Drug addicts, and homeless people are examples of individuals who might fall into this category.
Hierarchy (FST)
reflects its arrangement of layers according to delegation of power. So the parents are above the children in power.
Role Strain (SIT)
the incompatibility among roles corresponding to a single status difficulty acting according to one's "role" because of demands/insufficient resources
Reciprocal Determinism
the interacting influences of behavior, internal cognition, and environment In which every member of a social system as well as the system's psychological organization, norms, roles can be influenced by and influences every other member of the system in a never-ending cycle. A psychological event in a family cannot be understood without taking into account the simultaneous psychological influences that shaped it.
Role ambiguity (SIT)
when role expectations are not clearly understood
Role making (SIT)
• Defining and communicating one's role to others • Improvise, explore, and judge appropriate of others rather than upon a set of previously learned scripts, or set of expectations • Spontaneity in social roles
It takes interactions with others to fully develop a sense of self and that this involved two stages. (SIT)
• Play stage (simplified childhood role taking)—imitating the role of someone they know • Game stage (much more complex)—involves taking many roles at the same time
George Mead's thoughts on socialization (SIT)
• Social psychologist at the University of Chicago. Following his death, students compiled his lecture notes and published the book Mind, Self and Society. Mead was heavily influenced by the pragmatists and behaviorists • Reality doesn't exist "out there" it is actively created as we act in and toward the world. • How we perceive our environment, will determine how we act on it • People remember and base their knowledge of the world on what has proven useful to them
Families: What are their private understandings (SIT)
• Usually based on shared history, perspective and interpretation of events - Intersubjective meanings - the meaning we give to everyday life come from the same frame of reference. (generate their own private understandings) - Families explain things the same way - Families don't have to explain things to each other - Family members create a "sense that they share a common view" this keeps them in relationships with one another. • Working with families - do they have this sense of a shared experience, may express that something is missing, but can't be put into words - Implications for the intervention: Personal Reflections Program - Remarriage issues: two families coming together with different intersubjective meanings to everyday life. • Self as agent - too focused on the individual, ignoring social institutions - Overestimates the power of individuals to create their own realities, ignoring the extent to which humans inhabit a world not of their own making • Symbolic interactionism has neglected the emotional dimension of human conduct - Discuss feelings in the general sense as part of the "definition of the situation" but they quit at that point. Failing to identify the type of feeling or the degree of the emotional experiences • Question of cross culturally relevance - Can general laws be generated if symbols have different meaning cross culturally?
What are the historical Pragmatic Philosophers roots of Symbolic Interactionism
• viewed the world as something that was always changing • argued that social structure is constantly changing and developing • suggested that meaning comes not from objects themselves, but from our interactions with objects • showed an ideological commitment to progress and to democratic values