Implications of Changing Family Forms for Children

40Citations
Citations of this article
126Readers
Mendeley users who have this article in their library.

Abstract

This paper explores what it means to do a sociology of families, that is, one that acknowledges and considers a wider array of family forms than typically has been explored. We begin by reviewing the existing sociological research on a range of alternative family forms, ultimately focusing on older-parent, adoptive, same-sex, and multiracial families. We describe and critically assess four theoretical approaches to examining family forms-family structure, evolutionary, characteristics, and context-and their implications for children, and we discuss the utility of an approach that views family characteristics in social context. We also recommend that instead of using alternative family forms primarily or solely as counterfactuals to the so-called traditional family, researchers should compare alternative family forms to each other, noting theoretical implications for commonalities and differences found among these groups. We call for additional research on alternative families, noting its importance for sociology, family studies, and public policy.

Cite

CITATION STYLE

APA

Powell, B., Hamilton, L., Manago, B., & Cheng, S. (2016, July 30). Implications of Changing Family Forms for Children. Annual Review of Sociology. Annual Reviews Inc. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-soc-081715-074444

Register to see more suggestions

Mendeley helps you to discover research relevant for your work.

Already have an account?

Save time finding and organizing research with Mendeley

Sign up for free