Family diversity

• What is the focus of the New Right and Functionalist perspectives on family structure?

  The Nuclear Family is depicted as the cornerstone of society.
• What does the term "cereal packet family" refer to?

  It refers to the stereotypical conventional family image promoted by the media.
• According to Ann Casey, why is the nuclear family considered the norm?

  Because of the media's portrayal.
• What percentage of families fit the "cereal packet family" model according to the study material?

  Only 20% of families fit this model.
• What are the five types of family diversity identified by Rapoport & Rapoport (1982)?


  1. Organisational Diversity
  2. Cultural Diversity
  3. Social Class Diversity
  4. Life-Stage Diversity
  5. Generational Diversity
• What does organisational diversity refer to?

  It refers to how roles are allocated within families.
• How does cultural diversity affect family structures?

  Different cultural, religious, and ethnic groups have varying family norms and structures.
• What is social class diversity in the context of family structures?

  It refers to different classes following different family structures, roles, and child-rearing practices.
• What does life-stage diversity indicate?

  Individuals experience different family types throughout their lives.
• What is generational diversity?

  It refers to older and younger generations having different attitudes and experiences.
• What are the characteristics of organisational diversity according to Morgan?


  • Different families have different practices based on values.
  • Some individuals hold traditional male/female roles, while others are more liberal.
  • Some families are more child-centered than others.
  • Attitudes towards marriage and cohabitation vary.
• How does cultural diversity manifest in family structures?

  Cultural diversity leads to differences in family structures and lifestyles among ethnic and religious groups.
• What is a common characteristic of South Asian families?

  They tend to be larger and often multi-generational.
• What does Beck-Gernsheim's concept of individualization refer to?

  It describes the process where traditional relationships and values lose their significance.
• What is the significance of love in modern relationships according to Beck-Gernsheim?

  Love guides people's approaches to relationships rather than practical necessity.
• What are the implications of living in a "Risk Society" according to Beck?

  • Individuals have more choices and personal options.
  • Relationships can become unstable as partners can choose to end them.
  • There is a focus on the rewards and costs of relationships.
• What does Chester mean by the "neo-conventional family"?

  It refers to a family where both spouses work and share the division of labor.
• What is the argument of the New Right regarding family diversity?

  They believe that family diversity is detrimental to society.
• According to Functionalists, what is the ideal family structure?

  The ideal family structure is the traditional nuclear family.
• What are the criticisms of family diversity according to Functionalists and the New Right?

  • They argue that family diversity is not beneficial for society.
  • They believe that the traditional nuclear family is the only correct family type.
  • They see other family types as deviant or abnormal.
• What does the term "negotiated family" refer to?

  It refers to families where relationships are based on choice and mutual agreement rather than traditional roles.
• What is the significance of Chester's view on family diversity?

  He argues that family diversity is often exaggerated and that the nuclear family remains dominant.
• What does Chester suggest about single-person households?

  Most single-person households consist of elderly widows or younger divorced individuals who aspire to live in a nuclear family.
• What are the statistics regarding family types mentioned in the study material?

  • 15% of families are lone-parent families.
  • 30% of families are one-person households.
  • 18.4% are same-sex families.
  • 19% are cohabitating couples.
• What does Rhona & Robert Rapoport argue about family diversity?

  They argue that family diversity represents greater freedom of choice and acceptance of different cultures.
• How do the perspectives on family diversity differ between the New Right and postmodernists?

  The New Right views family diversity as negative, while postmodernists see it as a positive development.
• What is the impact of divorce on family structures according to the study material?

  Divorce has led to the formation of extended families that provide support.
• What does the term "individualisation" imply in the context of family relationships?

  It implies that individuals have more personal choices and opportunities to shape their relationships.
• How has the role of women changed in contemporary family structures?

  Women have gained greater control over their lives and are creating families that meet their needs.
• What does Giddens argue about the nature of relationships in modern society?

  Relationships are now defined by love and personal choice rather than traditional norms.
• What is the significance of the term "risk society" in relation to family diversity?

  It highlights the increased uncertainty and choice individuals face in their personal relationships.
• How do postmodernists view the changes in family structures?

  They view changes as positive, allowing for greater freedom and choice in personal relationships.
• What does the term "negotiated family" imply about modern relationships?

  It implies that relationships are based on mutual agreement and personal choice.
• What is the overall conclusion about family diversity in contemporary society?

  Family diversity is widely accepted and celebrated as a reflection of greater freedom and choice.