personal life theory

• What is Personal Life Theory?

  It is an interactionist perspective on family.
• What are the two basic criticisms of structural theories according to Personal Life Theory?

  They ignore family diversity and view members as passive.
• What does Personal Life Theory criticize about structural theories regarding family types?

  They assume the nuclear family is dominant.
• How do structural theories view family members?

  As passive puppets manipulated by society.
• What is the focus of Personal Life Theory?

  Understanding family from individuals' perspectives.
• What does Carol Smart reject about Giddens and Beck's views?

  She rejects the idea of family life decline.
• What aspects does Smart's approach focus on regarding family life?

  Memory, emotions, secrets, and shared possessions.
• What types of relationships does Smart recognize as significant?

  Intimate relationships not conventionally defined as family.
• What are 'chosen families' in the context of Smart's theory?

  Supportive networks of close friends and ex-partners.
• How do relationships with dead relatives affect individuals according to Smart?

  They shape identities and affect actions.
• What did Becky Tiper find regarding children's views on pets?

  Children see pets as part of the family.
• What conclusion does Smart reach about the family?

  It is diverse and complex, not in decline.
• What are the strengths of Personal Life Theory?

  • Understands how people define relationships
  • Recognizes that relatedness can be negative
• What are the weaknesses of Personal Life Theory?

  • Takes too broad a view of family
  • Ignores special nature of blood and marriage relationships