Family in Focus, 7.5 Credits

Contents

The course Family in Focus is about family - what it is, what it looks like - a few decades into the 21st century. The course discusses the relationship between family and the social context within which it exists. Family from a Swedish perspective will be the starting point for a discussion of family from an international perspective, with a slight focus on North America and Europe. Family is discussed as a part of the society within which it exists. For this reason, family is defined broadly to include different forms of family. Considerable attention is given to investigating the relationship between family and social context. This is done through the discussion of a number of themes such as: demographic trends, labor market, paid and unpaid work, the role of gender, the organization of families' everyday lives. Family and its relationship to these themes illuminated from different theoretical perspectives, empirical research and from both micro and macro perspectives.

Expected learning outcomes

On successful completion of the course, the student will have knowledge and understanding about:

• the importance of social context for family 
• relevant research on families 

On successful completion of the course, the student will be able to:

• demonstrate an understanding of sociological perspectives on family
• identify and communicate theories, lines of arguments and terminology in relation to family

On successful completion of the course, the student will understand:

• the importance of different contexts and conditions that frame the lives of families

Required Knowledge

Form of instruction

The course content is delivered through lectures, seminars and group exercises.

Examination modes

The course is examined through a written paper and attendance at compulsory seminars.