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Cover of Marriage and Family

Marriage and Family

Written by J. Kenneth Davidson,Nelwyn B. Moore

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868 pages, about 17 hours of reading

Family & Relationships

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About this book

This well-researched, lively text is an examination of marriage and family in the 1990s. It reflects the contemporary concerns of today's diverse and non-traditional student population and contains the latest information on such topics as love and intimacy; communication; parenting; family stresses and strengths; diversity; homosexuality; and gender issues. Chapter 11, "Violence and Abuse in Relationships," explores violence throughout the life cycle, from child abuse to date rape to elder abuse. Three types of chapter boxes feature: "Change and Continuity" provides contemporary facts about families; "Challenges and Choices" enables students to assess their strengths and stresses in response to today's realities; and "Personal Perspectives" facilitates self-insight as a basis for healthy decisions about relationships. A CNN Videotape includes segments on domestic violence and numerous other timely issues confronting families today. The complete Supplements Package includes an Instructor's Manual/Test Bank, with CNN Video Guide; CNN Videotape; computerized test bank; and Study Guide.

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Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in Marriage and Family, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 40 hours
  • intermediate
  • informative
  • academic
  • analytical

''Marriage and Family'' by J. Kenneth Davidson and Nelwyn B. Moore is a foundational academic textbook designed for college-level courses in family studies, sociology, and psychology. It offers a comprehensive overview of the institution of marriage and the dynamics of family life, exploring various theoretical perspectives, historical evolutions, and contemporary challenges. The book systematically examines topics ranging from courtship and intimate relationships to parenting, divorce, remarriage, and diverse family structures, supported by empirical research and sociological analysis. Its primary aim is to provide students with a robust understanding of the complexities and diversity of family forms and functions in modern society.

“"The family is a universal social institution, yet its forms and functions vary widely across cultures and throughout history."”

Key themes

Family Structures and Diversity
This theme explores the historical evolution and contemporary variations of family forms, moving beyond the traditional nuclear family to include single-parent, blended, cohabiting, same-sex, and extended families. It emphasizes that 'family' is a dynamic and culturally constructed concept, constantly adapting to social change.
Marriage and Intimate Relationships
This theme delves into the institution of marriage, exploring its historical significance, legal frameworks, and changing social functions. It also covers the dynamics of intimate relationships, including mate selection, courtship, communication patterns, marital satisfaction, and the factors contributing to relationship success or dissolution, such as infidelity and divorce.
Family Challenges and Resilience
This theme addresses the various adversities and crises that families encounter, including domestic violence, substance abuse, poverty, illness, and bereavement. It also explores the concept of family resilience—how families cope with stress, adapt to change, and recover from trauma, highlighting protective factors and intervention strategies.

Worth discussing

How have theoretical perspectives (e.g., functionalism, conflict theory, symbolic interactionism) shaped our understanding of family structures and functions?

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