Families in Canada Exam Review PDF

Unit 1 – Families in Canada Introduction · ​ Defining family – how definition has changed over time and why A census family includes: 1.​ Married or common-law couples (with or without children). 2.​ Single parents with at least one child living with them. 3.​ Grandchildr...

Unit 1 – Families in Canada Introduction · ​ Defining family – how definition has changed over time and why A census family includes: 1.​ Married or common-law couples (with or without children). 2.​ Single parents with at least one child living with them. 3.​ Grandchildren living with their grandparents (if no parents are present). All members must live in the same dwelling. Children can be biological or adopted, regardless of age or marital status, as long as they do not have their own spouse, partner, or children living in the dwelling. (2022 update) · ​ Functions of the family (Vanier Institute) – physical maintenance, addition of new family members, socialization, social control, production and consumption, affective nurturance The definition of a census family has evolved between 1996 and 2015 to better reflect societal changes and living arrangements. Here's a breakdown of key changes: 1996 Definition: -​ Focused on nuclear families: married couples and their children, or lone parents with at least one child living with them. -​ Did not include common-law couples unless explicitly specified. -​ Excluded relationships like grandchildren living with grandparents without parents present. 2015 Definition: -​ Expanded to include common-law couples and their children, giving legal recognition to non-marital partnerships. -​ Recognized grandchildren living with their grandparents (with no parents present) as forming a census family. -​ Clarified that children remain part of the census family regardless of their age or marital status, provided they live in the dwelling and do not have their own family in the home. The Family – Then and Now · ​ Terms relevant to the study of the family (glossary i.e. matrilocal) and case study analysis Nuclear family Parents and their children Extended family Parents, children, and other relatives such as grandparents, aunts, uncles etc Blended family Includes children from a previous marriage of one or both parents Lone parent/single parent family One parent and their children Cohabitation/common-law A relationship between a couple that is considered to be marriage because the couple have lived together for a long period of time. (In Canada: 12 months) Kinship Family connections or close bonds with others Matriarchal A woman who leads or dominates the family or group Patriarchal A family, group or government controlled by a man or a group of men. A social system in which family members are related to each other through their fathers. Egalitarian Equal wealth and status for all people Exogamy Marriage outside a specific group as required by custom or law. Endogamy Marriage within a specific group as required by custom or law. Monogamy The practice of marrying only one person at a time. Polygamy Being married to more than one person at a time Polygyny A man with multiple wives Polyandry A woman with multiple husbands Group Marriage A group of men and women who are married to each other Patrilineal Tracing descent through father’s side Matrilineal Tracing descent through mother’s side Bilineal Tracing descent through either parent’s side Patrilocal The couple lives with the husband’s family. Matrilocal The couple lives with the wife’s family. Neolocal Living or located away from both families. Caste A division of society based on differences of wealth, inherited rank or privilege, profession, occupation, race. A system of rigid social stratification characterized by hereditary status, endogamy and social barriers sanctioned by custom, law or religion. (social class based on things like wealth, occupation or religion) Roots of each word Poly: many Patri: male Gamy: marriage Local: location of residence Ineal: descent Archal: rule Micro impacts of family: behaviour within family usit Macro impacts of family: societal level responses · ​ The Family in History (organizer and reading) · ​ 50 Years of the Family (Vanier Institute Chronology) · ​ Case Study – The Family in the Last 50 Years Pre war (1930s) rural, large families: children provide labour for survival Post war (40s-50s) moved to cities. Men as providers and women as caregivers, sense of prosperity 1960s -Church influence weakens (common law relationships increase), education more important (women return to work to sustain standard of living) 1970s and 1980s -both partners had to work longer hours to sustain their life style, mortgage rates and debt increases (dual income, fewer children), divorce rates increase, downsizing · ​ 21st Century Family – Census Canada trends -​ From 2011 to 2016, the population increased by 1.7 million or 5.0%, a slightly lower rate than 5.9% from 2006 to 2011 -​ Fertility rate: the number of children a hypothetical woman would have over the course of her reproductive life, based on females aged 15-49 (steadily falling and 1971 was the last  year when the average number of children matched the 2.1 replacement level needed for the population to renew itself without being bolstered by immigration), 2016 census = 1.6 -​ Choosing to start a family later in life (1960’s = 22 and in 2016 = 30+) longer delay = shorter window to have children -​ Cost of child-rearing (day care, school based activities, extra curriculars post secondary education) -​ Opportunity costs (building/maintaining career, time invested in extra-curriculars) The Disciplines in the Social Sciences ​ Anthropology: the study of human behaviour in societies (cultural factors such as the arts, beliefs, habits and institutions) (an example is having certain beliefs which could be based on religion such as Christianity) Anthropological research is usually conducted via immersion within community or context under study - through participant observation Sociology: science that explains the behaviour of individuals as they interact in social groups such as the family (how society influences behaviour, patterns observed in large numbers/ groups) Sociological research includes classical experiment design, samping, polling participant Observation, content analysis, survey research​ Psychology: the scientific study of mental processes and observable behaviour (personality, Development, how individuals interact and influence one another Theoretical Perspectives · ​ Utility of multiple perspectives and why they exist; micro and macro -​ Micro- small or individual scale - Macro- large or societal scale · ​ Main concepts: looks at how society is organized to perform its required functions (social change can upset the balance in society) · key terms: Status- a specific position within a social group, Role- a set of behaviours that an individual is expected to demonstrate (caregiver(expressive), disciplinarian, provider,(instrumental), money manager) Norm- most prevalent behaviour application / social issue / analogies / case studies · Systems theory- assumes that the family is a complex organization and that within the ​ familys groups of individuals interact as a system Feedback: a process by which members learn how to interact to maintain the stability of the system Subsystems: different levels of relationships within the family unit (family, interpersonal, personal) Strategies: patterns of interaction that help the family achieve goals and interact with society Homeostasis: balance, change in one person's behaviour causes the behavior of the others to evolve resulting in new strategies to maintain the balance of the family · ​ Symbolic Interactionism – looking glass self: Our perception of ourselves, interpret the reactions of others, further develop our self concept based on the interpretation of the reactions of others Example: I think I am funny, You laugh at my jokes and ask me to tell another one, I interpret your reaction as positive feedback and my self-concept is enhanced – I truly am funny. Me: objective qualities like height, weight, hair color  I: subjective and based upon how an individual interprets feedback from other people (funny, friendly, etc) Role taking: as the basis for human interaction · ​ Exchange theory- argues that every choice we make benefits what we will or not get Reciprocity: expectation that favours will be returned if someone does something for another person, that person should do something in return cost-benefit analysis · ​ Conflict theory Power: is what holds societies together and conflicts exists because of inequalites of power, society is divided into groups and groups compete to meet their needs (the ability to control the behaviour of another) Capitalism: system in which workers are paid for their labour by the owners of the means of production Communism: sharing of control over the means of production feminist theories- social inequalities between men and women from a female perspective · ​ Life Course- describes changes in behaviour of an individual or family as they progress developmental tasks: prerequitistes before moving onto the next stage rites of passage: any important act or event that serves to mark a passage from one stage of life to another family life cycle: assumes families must adapt to normative developmental changes (newly married couple negotiate roles) · ​ Ecological Systems Theory- explores how a family influences and is influenced by the surrounding environment Microsystem: individual level Mesosystem: relationship level Exosystem: community level Macrosystem: societal level Chronosystem: over time —-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Unit 2 – Emerging Adulthood BUILDING THE DREAM Emerging adulthood from a historical and cultural perspective Prehistoric society: children learned survival skills and were seen as adults once contributing to survival (hunting, gathering) Pre-industrial youth: no adolescene, children were infants until 7 or 8 when they started to work- usually married in their 20’s, girls became mothers and boys continued the labour. Working class youth were sent from their families to work in other households Industrialization and urbanization: families migrated to cities to work, instead of sending kids away, fathers took kids to work with them in factories. They collected wages till they turned 17. They could afford to marry and leave home at a younger age. People enjoyed more freedom after work Development of schooling: education is prioritized, creating a phase between childhood and adulthood Changing workplaces in the 20th century: increased educational requirements meant longer schooling which delayed adult responsibilties​ Middle-Eastern Islamic families: cultural values with distinct roles for children and adolescents based on religion and societal norms (must finish school, get married, have family) Failure to launch: more young adults remain financially dependent on their parents, delaying traditional markers of adulthood (marriage) The Life Cycle Approach- life course developmental theories 1.​ Erik Erikson’s 8 stages of life- need to find who you truly are before a connection (identity vs role confusion) 2.​ Piaget stages of cognitive development: think in an abstract way, hypothetical thinking (sensorimortor intelligence, preopersional thinking, concrete operational thinking, formal operational thinking) 3.​ Kohlberg’s level of moral development: understanding to make decisions, we make decisions at a post conventional level (preconventional, conventional, post) 4.​ Klaus Reigl’s dimensions of development: consistently changing over time, one change requires adjustments 5.​ Jane Loevinger’s theory of ego development: developing sense of self over time, begin to separate from family 6.​ Family life framework: changes that allow you to become your own person, release from fam 7.​ Leonard peralin’s theory of psychological distress: develop based off of distress 8.​ Daniel levinson’s theory of the senses of life: sense of self is developed through a dream 9.​ Jeffrey arnett’s theory of emerging adulthood: you cannot go directly from adolescence to adulthood, you must mature over time Defining Adulthood Criteria: maturity, financial independence, ability to make decisions Expectations: stable jobs, relationships, contrtbuting to society Milestones: graduating school, starting a career, getting married, having kids Life Transitions to Adulthood Full time job: becoming financially independent finishing school: education is often linked to future opportunities Relationships: start forming and starting a family can occur leaving home: moving out Historical perspective (comprehension package) -​ people have reached these milestones earlier (getting married, starting families in their 20s) Coming of age in the 21st Century · ​ Emerging adulthood – defined / why A new life stage (ages 18-25) where people explore their identity, education and relationships without fully committing to adulthood This can happen because of longer schooling and shifting societal expectations (marriage) (Arnett Ted Talk): Arnett explains how this stage is distinct and why people delay traditional milestones · ​ Statistical analysis education: more young people attend post secondary institutions work: young adults often take longer to settle into stable, full-time careers demographic groups: emerging adulthood varies by gender, culture, economics gender gap: women and men often experience different timelines for adulthood due to career, family and societal roles · ​ Case Study: Leaving Home analysis of reasons to stay: save money, cultural expectations, family support reasons to leave home: independence, education, work opportunities, personal freedom theoretical perspectives regarding leaving home: functionalism: leaving home supports society by preparing young people for their roles  conflict theory: economic inequality may force some to stay longer symbolic interactionism: personal meaning and social expectations shape decisions BECOMING AN ADULT Pace of transition · ​ Clocks Chronological: refers to the number of years since birth (age of majority when you have legal responsibilities and privileges of adulthood) Biological: physical changes that occur, influenced by genetics and the environment (first words, sexual maturity) Psychological: maturity of the mind, how one understands the world, thoughts and feelings (problem solving) Social: societies expectations for when certain events should occur in the lives of individuals (norms) -children after marriage Psychosocial Development – Erik Erikson · ​ Eight stages across the lifespan; each stage consists of a crisis or turning point which may be resolved positively or negatively; focus on stages 1, 5, 6, 7 and 8 Stage 1 (0-18 months) trust vs mistrust, is my world predictable and supportive?, success in this stage will lead to virtue of hope, key relationships: mom and dad Stage 2 (18 months-3) autonomy vs shame and doubt, can i do things myself or do i rely on others?, becoming independent through encouragement not criticism, success in this stage will lead to the virtue of will, key relationship (parents) Stage 3 (4-6) initiative vs guilt, am i good or bad? Success leads to virtue of purpose. Failure leads to dependency, key relationships: parents, siblings Stage 4 (6-puberty-12) industry vs inferiority, am i comentent or am i worthless? Encourgament for initiative = feeling competent, success leads to virtue of competence, key relationships: family, teachers peers, friends Stage 5 (adolescence 12-18) identity vs role confusion, who am i and where am i going? Success leads to virtue of fidelity (ability to live by societal standards), key relationships: friends, role models Stage 6 (early adulthood 18-40) intimacy vs isolation, shall i share my life with another or live alone? Forming intimate relationships, success leads to virtue of love, key relationships: significant other or friends Stage 7 (middle adulthood, 40-65) generativity vs self absorption, will I produce something of real value? Success leads to virtue of care, key relationships: significant other, children, workmates Stage 8 (late adulthood 65+) integrity vs despair, have i lived a full life? Success leads to virtue of wisdom, key relationships: significant other, children, grandchildren · ​ Adolescence – psychosocial moratorium, identity crisis Cognitive Development – Jean Piaget · ​ Four stages Sensorimotor: (0-2) children experience the world through the sense; before the development of language, need to develop a mental schema of objects Preoperational: (2-7) operation = thinking/logic, children start to use symbols and words as symbols for objects  concrete operational: (7-12) children can manipulate thoughts and ideas according to a stable set of rules, growth of logical thinking but it must be tied to the real life experience of the child, conversation is the key milestone formal operational: (adolescene +) logical, abstract thinking is possible, can deal with hypothetical situations and idealism; values and beliefs may be questioned milestones of each stage Assimilation: when using an existing schema to deal with a new object or situation Accommodation: happens when the existing schema (knowledge) does not work, and needs to be changed to deal with a new object or situation Schema: basic building blocks of such cognitive models, and enable us to form a mental representarion of the world Object permanence: babies learn that things stilll exist even when you cant see them (if you hiide a toy, they know it’s still there) *playing games like peek a boo Conservation: kids understand that something stays the same even if it looks different Operation: problem solving (what if situations) Life-Course Theories · ​ Klaus Riegel – Internal biological and external social changes Focuses on how internal biological changes (e.g., aging, maturity) and external social changes (e.g., work, relationships) interact. Example: A person’s health and career demands might influence each other. · ​ Jane Loevinger – Ego development, autonomous self Describes ego development, where people grow from being dependent to developing an autonomous self (self-reliant and confident). Example: Young adults build their own values and goals. · ​ Leonard Pearlin – distress, cohort effect Focuses on how distress and life challenges (e.g., job loss) shape a person. Introduced the cohort effect: People in the same generation face similar challenges. · ​ Daniel Levinson – Life structure Talks about the life structure: The pattern of a person’s life at a given time (work, relationships, etc.). Example: In early adulthood, people focus on building careers and families. · ​ Jeffrey Arnett – theory of emerging adulthood Developed the theory of emerging adulthood, a new life stage (ages 18–25) where people explore their identity and delay traditional adult roles. Moral development – Lawrence Kohlberg · ​ Three levels pre-conventional (self): Decisions are based on personal rewards or punishments. Example: A child avoids lying to avoid being punished. conventional (societal): Morality is based on rules and societal expectations. Example: A teen follows laws to fit into society. post-conventional (fair and just): Decisions are guided by personal ethics and fairness, even if they conflict with rules. Example: An adult protests an unjust law for the greater good. · ​ Morality of Justice; rules oriented; criticisms Morality of Justice: Focuses too much on rules and fairness but neglects emotions and relationships. Critics argue it’s biased toward Western and male perspectives. Socialization and the Agents of Socialization · ​ Defining and function Soicailization: the process of learning social norms, values, and behaviors to function in society Family: teaches values and behaviors peers: influences attitude and social skills school: builds knowledge and societal roles media: shapes ideas about culture and work part-time work: teaches responsibilty and workplace norms role in shaping our identity and approach to work: These agents influence how we see ourselves and approach adulthood, like choosing a career or developing independence. —----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- UNIT 3 – YOUNG ADULTHOOD (DATING, LOVE AND MARRIAGE) Erikson – Stage 6 · ​ Intimacy versus Isolation Focus: building close meaningful relationships or facing loneliness and isolation Success: leads to strong bonds and emotional intimacy in relationships Failure: can result in feelings of loneliness or inability to form connections Similarity: we are drawn to people like us, share common interests and values Proximity: unlikely to persist in long-distance relationships Mere exposure effect- we grow to like those around us Developmental Tasks · ​ Complete school / full-time job / living on your own / couple relationships Couple Relationships · ​ Trends decline in married couples (why?) -​ Delayed marriage -​ Higher divorce rates -​ More people prioritizing careers and independence -​ Increase in common-law and same sex couples · Attraction proximity (mere exposure effect): people are more attracted to those they see often Similarity: shared interests and values strengthen connections physical attraction: (beautfiul is good) influencing perceptions Theories of Mate Selection Evolutionary: choosing partners based on traits that ensure survival and reproduction Evolutionary – natural selection: -​ Modern humans have inherited the mating strategies that led to the success of their ancestors -​ Strategies that enabled individuals to compete successfully for limited resources, to survive, to reproduce and to raise children gave these individuals an evolutionary advantage -​ Women prefer men who had the resources to be good providers and men prefer women who could bear healthy children and raise them well  social homogamy: choosing partners with similar backgrounds (religion, country etc) Social Homogamy – similarity and proximity: -​ Theory based on the idea that “like attracts like” -​ People tend to choose a partner who is more alike than different from themselves -​ Often from the same race, religion or culture -​ Often from same age, education levels, socio-economic backgrounds and family types -​ They often enjoy doing the same type of things ideal mate: seeking a partner who fits one’s “dream” image Ideal Mate Theory – symbolic interactionism and homogamy -​ Most people have an image on what their partner should look like -​ This is often based on physical characteristics, personality -​ An example is also a woman going for a man that is like her father fair (social) exchange: relationships based on give and take Attraction as Fair Exchange – what I have to offer and what I want -​ Social exchange theory: people may consider qualities they want in a partner and what they have to offer in return. These qualities can be maternal, personal, appearance, intelligence, etc conflict (feminist): examines power and gender dynamics in mate selection symbolic interactionism: shared meanings and interactions shaping mate choices Applying theoretical perspectives – why older men marry younger women -​ Evolutionary Perspective: Men may seek younger women for their perceived fertility and health. -​ Exchange Theory: Younger women may exchange youth and beauty for stability, wealth, or experience. -​ Social Homogamy: This trend may reflect societal norms or expectations about gender roles in relationships Dating · ​ Why? Socialization: how to interact and build connections with others Recreation: enjoying fun activities together Mate selection: finding someone long-term · ​ Script theory – do’s and don’ts of dating by culture and time period Public and well defined social and cultural script for dating that individuals learn (behaviours, expectations, gender roles) Social media use and dating Do’s: keep things private, don’t be too quick about introducing the person as your gf/bf Dont’s : don’t break up over text, dont rely on social media to connect · ​ Dating versus courtship – historical development of dating; 150 years of change Dating: casual and flexible (emerged in last 150 years) Courtship: formal and focused on marriage (common in the past) · ​ 21st century trends (impact of social media) Social media has changed how people meet and communicate (online dating) Script Theory: explains that there is a public and well defined social and cultural script for dating that individuals learn. For example: 1.​ Behaviours – asking for date, organizing activity, making preparations, interactions during the date, ending the date  2.​ Expectations – spending time together, exclusivity or cheating, hold hands, kiss etc. 3.​ Gender roles that are shared and enforced informally among young people. Woman as sexual gatekeeper; setting the limits for sexual activity 4.​ Social script – Timing of cohabitation, personal, social, cultural expectations for companionship, emotional closeness and sexual fulfilment · ​ Courtship – A period of time when a man and a woman are attracted to eachother and display certain behaviours to convince eachother they will be good mates. ( a period when a couple is dating) · ​ Courtship rituals – Men and women have different roles in courtship rituals. Men display their resources to show they have potential to be good providers. Women display qualities that make them sexually desirable and nurturing. Contemporary Dating: a selections process, looking for the right person out of a pool of people to couple up wth (dating dos and don’ts), Mate Selection and Marital Success · ​ Bernard Murstein – market experience perspective / filter theory People date to gain experience and find the best match using a filter process · ​ Martin King Whyte – Detroit study (against market perspective; love) Challenges the market perspective, emphasizing love over practical criteria Love · ​ Styles Eros: passionate romantic love Ludus: playful casual love Mania: obsessive possessive love Pragma: practical logical love Storge: friendship based love Agape: selfless unconditional love · ​ Sternberg – triangles Passion: physical attraction, feeling “butterflies”, being intense in the beginning Intimacy: feeling close and bonding, trusting, getting to understand each other Commitment: nurture the relationship, loyal and dedication, growing over time · Sternberg stories Garden: love requires care and effort to grow Travel: love is a journey Business: love thrives on shared goals and clear communication War: love is a battle/ struggle Police: love consists of monitoring, enforcing rules (boundaries) Sacrifice: love is giving to the other person Humour: love is about laughter and joy Marriage – an Introduction · ​ Reflecting on quotes / tips for a long and happy marriage Wallerstein identified nine psychological tasks required for a happy marriage: 1. Move on emotionally from family but still keep good connections 2. Build a close bond with your partner while being independent 3. Have a good sex life without letting family or work getting in the way 4. Be good parents but make sure you make separate alone time with your partner 5. Deal with hardships without the relationship falling apart 6. Being able to express your feelings 7. Using humour to avoid boredom. 8. Support, encourage, and comfort each other through everything. 9. Keeping alive the early romance of love while facing changes though by time. Marriage – a History · ​ Statistical analysis of trends, honeymoons, bridal tours ​ Demographics and Data: -​ Marriage rates have declined, and common-law relationships have increased. -​ Same-sex couples represent a growing proportion of households. Changing Demographics: -​ Census data highlights a shift away from traditional marriage toward diverse family structures. -​ Common-law partnerships and single-person households are becoming more common. First Nations: most first nations families were matrilineal and matrilocal to maintain sustainability while men are hunting European contact: french and british colonists brought patriarchal and patrilineal family systems of the Christian church to their new home -​ Men outnumber women. In 1700 2:1 and AVERAGE AGE TO MARRY FOR WOMEN WAS 20 AND 28 FOR MEN -​ Marry first nation women -​ Les filles du roi- french women encouraged to immigrate to new france to marry Marriage – the Purpose · ​ Organizer Functionalism: organizing family and societal roles Symbolic interactionism: marriage reflects shared meanings and personal connections Exchange: a balance of benefits and costs life course: marriage as part of personal and social development · ​ Marriage Common law: purpose- a sharing of resources without the formality and commitment of marriage, a mutual responsibility for support and protection, some consider this a prelude to marriage not an alternative stability- more likely to separate than if married, couples who marry after cohabitating (moving in before) are twice as likely to get divorced Same-sex: purpose- a voluntary union based on romantic attraction, a protection to partners and children stability- since the laws have only just changed to legally accommodate these relationships, time has yet to tell how stable these will be Negotiating Satisfying Relationships · ​ Companionate: close friendship · egalitarian: equal partnership · peer relationships: shared power · ​ Marriage stages and cycle: relationships evolve through stages, from honeymoon to mature · ​ Negotiating roles – gender etc: balancing gender roles and expectations in relationships  Instrumental roles: men providing financial stability Expressive roles: women nurturing and caring Stages in a marriage Honeymoon: romantic, warm, sexual attraction (learns what makes partner happy) Conflict: demands own needs to be met (communication to express frustrations, responsive to each others needs) Compromise: negotiation, stable and mature relationship (conflict resolution skills) Conflict, Influence and Problem Solving · ​ Defining conflict, power: disagreements over needs or values · ​ Problems in relationships; principle of least interest: the person who cares less holds more power · ​ Conflict resolution strategies: effective communication, compromise and mutual respect —-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Unit 4 - Expanding Families Introduction · ​ Deciding to have children Factors Influencing Decision: Divorce: Risk of instability may influence family planning. Financial Considerations: Cost of raising a child in Canada, including housing, childcare, and education. Health Concerns: Fertility challenges and risks associated with older pregnancies. Societal Influence: Expectations from family, friends, and culture. Social Policies: Government incentives like tax breaks and family allowances. · ​ Looking back at expanding families - history Old Times (Before Cities): -​ Big families lived together (grandparents, parents, kids) -​ Everyone helped with work, like farming and cooking. Moving to Cities (Industrial Revolution): -​ Families got smaller (just parents and kids). -​ People moved away from their grandparents to find jobs. After World War II: -​ Families grew bigger again (lots of kids were born). -​ Suburbs became popular, and families had their own houses. Modern Families (Now): -​ Blended families: Step-parents and step-siblings. -​ Same-sex families: Two moms or two dads raising kids. -​ Extended families: Grandparents live with the family again. First Nations: Traditionally nomadic with egalitarian division of labor; all contributions valued. -​ Boys hunted with men; girls tended plants, animals, and children with women. -​ Children’s labor was essential for family survival but required years of learning. -​ Colonization reduced nomadic lifestyles and introduced blended cultures. -​ European patriarchal values devalued women’s and children’s roles. -​ Role confusion and family conflict arose in First Nations communities. European immigration: -​ Marriage and family practices varied by class.  -​ Middle/upper-class families: -​ Women valued for dowries and childbearing abilities. -​ Men prioritized lineage, wealth, and biological ties. -​ Children are seen as essential for securing family interests. -​ Farming/peasant families: -​ Marriage and children were economic necessities. -​ Children contributed labor from a young age. -​ Gender roles were distinct, following parental division of labor. Having Children in Canada Today · ​ Money Sense article, Couples are too cash strapped to raise children: the prices of items have rised therefore raising a child has become more expensive Deciding to Have Children · ​ Childless versus Childfree -​ Distinction between involuntary childlessness and the choice to remain childfree. -​ Societal perceptions and stigma surrounding both choices. Adjusting to Parenthood: · ​ Changes in the Couple Relationship- Stress that may come from role overload (too many new roles to be filled) must be managed by renegotiating their relationship Applying perspectives family life cycle: couples transition from a partner focused relationship to partner + child, how roles and expectations evolve during parenthood, adjusting new routines systems theory: seen as a system (when a kid comes, therefore the whole system changes), stressed symbolic interactionism: how partners interpret meaning to their new roles, role strain can occur from societal expectations (gender roles), communication is crucial role overload and stress: increased responsibilites lead to physical and psychological exhaustion time negotiation of roles: balancing time between work, parenting etc (being flexible) · ​ Article – More men opting to be stay at home dads -​ Reflects the renegotiation of traditional gender responsibilities. -​ Symbolic interactionism explains how this shift challenges societal norms and redefines fatherhood. -​ Systems theory highlights the ripple effects on family dynamics and social networks. · ​ Adjusting to Parenthood: Changing Relationships with Others Transition to parenthood shifts family dynamics: -​ Parents become grandparents; siblings become aunts/uncles. -​ New strategies for child care and responsibilities are required. Relationships within the extended family must adapt: -​ Grandparents need opportunities to develop their roles. Friendships are also affected: -​ New parents’ focus on family and baby-related interests may strain old friendships. Parent Child Relationships Attachment – Harlow’s experiment with monkeys: Importance of comfort and bonding (monkeys clinging to cloth mothers). secure attachment: secure bonds lead to healthier adult relationships insecure attachment: examples are; anxious attachment (fear of being abandoned)- how it affects you later on: trust issues, doubt, overanalyzing, reassurance avoidant attachment (avoid closeness with intimacy)- how it affects you later on: difficulty opening up, emotionally distant, fear of relying on others disorganized attachment (mix of closeness and fear of abandonment)- how it affects you later on: unpredictable behavior in relationships, struggle with intimacy and trust, difficulty managing emotions Erikson stages Stage 1: trust vs mistrust- importance of nurturing in infancy Stage 7: generativity vs stagnation- parental role in guiding the next generation mother and father attachment: both play different roles but useful roles in a child’s emotional development Parental Roles · ​ Parenting Styles and influence on children -​ Authoritarian: Strict rules, less emotional warmth -​ Permissive: High warmth, low discipline -​ Authoritative: Balance of warmth and structure (most beneficial) -​ Neglectful: Low warmth and discipline · ​ Roles Mother’s: caregiver giving love and support (a lot of mothers have began to work and share responsibilites with fathers) father’s: traditionally worked to provide for family single parent: does both work of mother and father same sex parents: share responsibitlies like other parents Explore traditional vs. evolving roles (e.g., single parents, same-sex parents). Sharing Parenthood with the Larger Society · ​ Who provides care for children? – Grandparents’ and their roles / skip generation families trends and impact Caregiving Roles: -Grandparents: -​ Often act as caregivers, particularly in skip-generation families (grandparents raising grandchildren) -​ Community and Social Support: Availability of daycare, after-school programs, etc. —------------------------------------------------------------------------ Unit 5 - Middle and Later Life Erikson Generativity: feeling productive, helping future generations, creating a legacy Integrity vs Despair: feeling satisfied, accepting life, a few regrets vs feeling regret, sadness or failure Making Aging Positive · ​ What does the added 30 years look like? Modern medicine, healthier lifestyles, better living conditions (more time for hobbies, travel, better relationships) Langer and Rodin study: older adults in a nursing home were given more control over decisions (choosing activities) Randy Pausch - Last Lecture  Childhood dreams: Pausch emphaszied the importance of chasing dreams. Dreams may not always be achieved but it can teach you lessons Failure: failure is a part of success as it builds character and teaches you (viewing obstacles are opportunities to grow) Short answer practice: describe 2 stages of erik eriksons stages of development, use examples discuss the key dilemma of those stages and desire outcomes Erik Erikson’s stages of development each focus on a key conflict we go through at different times in life. For example, in the first stage, Trust vs. Mistrust, babies have to figure out if the world is a safe place. If their parents or caregivers take care of them—like feeding them when they cry or holding them when they’re upset—they learn to trust people. But if they’re ignored or treated badly, they might grow up feeling like they can’t rely on anyone. Another big stage is Identity vs. Role Confusion, which happens during the teenage years. This is when you try to figure out who you are and what you want to do with your life. Maybe you try out different styles, friend groups, or hobbies, like joining a band or getting into sports. If you figure it out, you feel confident about who you are, but if you don’t, it can leave you feeling lost or unsure of where you belong. Pleasantvillle The film mirrors the evolution of Canadian families over the past several decades. Like the town of Pleasantville, Canadian families have transitioned from rigid, traditional structures to much more diverse and inclusive forms. Below is a deeper look at the parallels: In Pleasantville, the traditional nuclear family is the foundation of the community, with clearly defined gender roles: fathers go to work, mothers stay home, and family life is predictable and orderly. However, as characters begin to experience emotions like passion, creativity, and rebellion, these roles start to dissolve. For example, Betty Parker, the mother, explores her individuality and eventually steps away from her homemaker identity. In Canada, a similar shift has occurred. In the mid-20th century, families often mirrored the traditional setup shown in Pleasantville. However, starting in the 1960s and 1970s, gender roles began to change as women entered the workforce in greater numbers. Today, dual-income households are common, and stay-at-home dads are no longer unusual. This evolution reflects a broader acceptance of flexibility in family roles, where caregiving and breadwinning responsibilities are often shared. As Pleasantville evolves, its characters begin to challenge the idea that there is only one way to live or one "correct" family structure. For instance, relationships outside of the traditional marriage model start to form, and individuals begin prioritizing self-expression over societal expectations. Similarly, Canada has moved away from the traditional nuclear family model. According to recent demographic trends: ​ Single-parent families: These have become more common due to higher divorce rates and changing societal attitudes toward parenting outside of marriage. ​ Blended families: With remarriage and step-parenting becoming more frequent, blended families have added complexity to Canadian households. ​ Same-sex couples and families: Legalization of same-sex marriage in 2005 brought greater visibility and acceptance of LGBTQ+ families in Canada, highlighting the diversity of family forms. ​ Cultural diversity: Immigration has enriched Canadian society, introducing varied family structures, traditions, and values that contrast with the homogeneity of the Pleasantville families. Pleasantville is ultimately a story about growth, acceptance, and the beauty of individuality. Its portrayal of families transitioning from rigid traditions to embracing change mirrors the evolution of families in Canada. Just as the characters in Pleasantville learn to accept a world filled with color, Canadian families have become more diverse, dynamic, and reflective of modern values, while still navigating the challenges that come with such transformation. Blended reflects the realities and challenges of modern families in Canada, especially as blended families are becoming increasingly common. Here’s how the movie ties into the concept of families in Canada: Blended Blended families are families where at least one parent has children from a previous relationship. According to Canadian statistics, the number of blended families has been growing due to higher divorce rates and remarriages. The movie Blended captures the unique struggles these families face, such as children adjusting to new parental figures or step-siblings learning to coexist. In the movie, Jim's daughters are initially resistant to Lauren, and Lauren’s sons struggle to connect with Jim. This mirrors the challenges Canadian families face when trying to combine different family cultures, routines, and traditions. The film highlights how communication, patience, and time are essential for building trust and bonds within blended families. Blended also explores non-traditional parenting dynamics. Both Jim and Lauren are single parents who take on caregiving and household roles, which traditionally were divided along gender lines. This reflects trends in Canada, where gender roles in families have evolved significantly. For instance: Many single parents, regardless of gender, manage both caregiving and breadwinning responsibilities. The movie delves into how children adapt to new family structures. For example: Jim’s daughters are grieving the loss of their mother and initially find it hard to accept Lauren. Lauren’s sons struggle with their father’s absence and initially resist Jim’s influence. This reflects the emotional complexities Canadian children face in blended families. Adjustments to new family dynamics—like having a step-parent or step-siblings—can be challenging but also lead to personal growth and stronger relationships over time. The film portrays how humor, shared experiences, and mutual understanding can help children thrive in new family settings. A core theme of Blended is embracing family diversity and realizing that there is no "perfect" family model. Jim and Lauren’s journey demonstrates that love, care, and mutual respect are what truly define a family, rather than its structure. This aligns with Canada’s increasingly inclusive understanding of families, which now includes blended families, same-sex families, single-parent families, and more. The movie Blended provides an entertaining yet insightful look into the challenges and triumphs of blended families. Its themes of acceptance, patience, and redefining family align closely with the realities of families in Canada. With the rise of blended families, changing parenting roles, and a growing appreciation for family diversity, Blended serves as a relatable reflection of modern family life in Canada. It reminds us that while creating a blended family can be complicated, love and understanding can help overcome challenges and build strong, united relationships. The Tinder Swindler Tells the story about a con artist who tries to manipulate women for their money. How it relates to Mate selection: apps like tinder play a role in mate selection as it allows people to connect with potential partners across vast distances. The main character Simon has people trust them and pretends he is wealthy and all kind. This ties to mate selection because individuals such as women tend to look for a partner who are physically attractive, have a good social status, have the same interests and have money. Simon makes sure that it seems like he has all these traits which makes him appealing to several women. Now, evolutionary psychology suggests that resources and financial stability often play a role in mate selection as it shows stability and being able to provide. Simon manipulates this dynamic by falsely presenting himself as wealthy and shows this by taking these women out on expensive dates and giving them expensive gifts. By showing these traits, he makes it seem like he can provide for these women. This relates to mate selection as women are drawn to partners who appear financially stable. Simon exploits this by making his victims believe he has unlimited resources, only to later manipulate them into funding his schemes. Mate selection is also often influenced by emotional bonding and trust, which is critical in developing romantic relationships. Simon uses emotional manipulaton to fast track intimacy. His victoms believes that he loves them. He says how he is in danger and needs help while this is not true. This dynamic highlights how mate selection can sometimes make individuals vulnerable to exploitation when emotional trust is abused. It also underscores the importance of critical thinking and caution in the early stages of relationships, especially when someone’s behavior seems too good to be true. This dynamic highlights how mate selection can sometimes make individuals vulnerable to exploitation when emotional trust is abused. It also underscores the importance of critical thinking and caution in the early stages of relationships, especially when someone’s behavior seems too good to be true. The Tinder Swindler connects to mate selection by illustrating how modern dating tools, societal ideals, and emotional dynamics influence romantic decisions. It also highlights the risks of online dating and the need to balance attraction with caution. The documentary serves as a reminder that while mate selection has evolved with technology, it’s still essential to prioritize trust, transparency, and critical thinking when forming romantic relationships.