For this class we will try and look beyond the definitions for the family to the family processes that influence individuals, families and society. Secrecy - families have private, backstage areas that only members of that family see. We will examine how intimacy processes are created and maintained in families and how they impact things like communication and family dynamics. Interdependence between family members is similar to the notion of economic cooperation but more heavily laden with meaning. We rely on family members, feel loyal to them and are attached to them.
Families are where social reproduction takes place.
Generation connections are important and since reproduction can now take place outside the family realm due to technology we have to wrestle with the ongoing construction to kinship and family definitions. The impact of cultural and social factors on functions once solely reserved for the family. Some people are uncomfortable with this and we will explore these issues. These processes are a large part of what makes us as individuals as we in turn shape our families.