Course Descriptions

SOC 204 - Sociology of the Family

3 Credits

A sociological analysis of the family as a social institution: its origin, structure and variations, and patterns of intimate relationships. Examines family organization through analysis of mate selection, sexuality, gender and family roles, race, ethnicity & social class, marriage and divorce, parenthood, and the diversity of family composition. Investigates key concerns for contemporary American families including communication and power, the balance of work and family obligations, the impact of social inequality and social change, and current social policy issues.

Learning Attributes: WR

New SUNY General Education: SUNY - Diversity: Equity, Inclusion, and Social Justice, SUNY - Social Sciences

Retiring SUNY General Education: SUNY-SS - Social Sciences (SSCS)

MCC General Education: MCC-CT - Critical Thinking (MCT), MCC-SCI - Scientific Reasoning (MSCI), MCC-SSD - Social Science and Diversity (MSSD)

Course Learning Outcomes
1. Describe the historical social trends of family organization.
2. Describe the contemporary social trends of family organization.
3. Apply micro level sociological perspectives to learn about the family system in the U. S.
4. Apply macro level sociological perspectives to learn about the family system in the U. S.
5. Evaluate the influence of demographic variables (such as social class, race, ethnicity, gender and sexual orientation) on variations in family experience in the U. S. today.
6. Analyze cultural representations of contemporary family using sociological research and methodologies.
7. Analyze the role of society in shaping family behavior patterns using sociological research and methodologies.
8. Utilize writing to communicate an understanding, application, analysis or evaluation of material covered in this course.

Use links below to see if this course is offered:
Fall Semester 2024
Intersession 2025
Spring Semester 2025