Question 1

How has the evolution of society changed the role structure of families? Explore the changes I the workplace. Explore the need for two family earners. Explore the prevalence of blended families and 'serial monogamy.' Explore the issues associated with gay marriage.

Accepted Answer

The evolution of society has significantly changed the role structure of families in various ways. One of the most notable changes is the shift in the traditional gender roles within the family. In the past, the father was typically the primary breadwinner, while the mother took on the role of homemaker and caregiver. However, as society has evolved, there has been a significant increase in the number of dual-income households, where both parents work outside the home. This shift has led to a redefinition of the roles within the family, with both parents sharing responsibilities for earning income and caring for the household and children.

The changes in the workplace have also played a significant role in shaping the role structure of families. With the rise of technology and globalization, the nature of work has evolved, leading to more flexible work arrangements and the ability to work remotely. This has allowed for greater work-life balance and has enabled both parents to pursue their careers while still being actively involved in family life.

The need for two family earners has become increasingly prevalent due to the rising cost of living and the economic pressures faced by many families. In many cases, it is no longer feasible for one parent to support the entire family financially, leading to the necessity for both parents to contribute to the household income.

Another significant change in family structure is the prevalence of blended families and 'serial monogamy.' With the increase in divorce rates and remarriages, many families now consist of stepparents, stepsiblings, and half-siblings. This has led to a redefinition of family dynamics and relationships, as individuals navigate the complexities of multiple parental figures and extended family members.

The issues associated with gay marriage have also had a profound impact on the role structure of families. With the legalization of same-sex marriage in many countries, there has been a shift in societal attitudes towards LGBTQ+ families. This has led to greater recognition and acceptance of diverse family structures, as well as the legal rights and protections for same-sex couples and their children.

In conclusion, the evolution of society has brought about significant changes in the role structure of families, with shifts in gender roles, changes in the workplace, the need for dual-income households, the prevalence of blended families and 'serial monogamy,' and the recognition of LGBTQ+ families. These changes have reshaped the traditional family model and have led to greater diversity and inclusivity in family structures.

Question 2

Social or emotional detachment from another person is

Accepted Answer

Disengagement refers to the process of withdrawing or detaching oneself socially or emotionally from another person or group.

Question 3

In structural family theory, which of the following items is a function of the spousal subsystem that is changing in today's society?

Accepted Answer

The expectation of permanence in the spousal subsystem is changing in today's society, with increasing divorce rates and changing views on marriage.

Question 4

A couple that argues over parenting issues, then allows those differences to affect their affection and respect for each other in their spousal role is not maintaining the subsystem's

Accepted Answer

The couple is not maintaining the boundary between their roles as parents and as spouses, allowing issues in one area to negatively impact the other.

Question 5

Do family communication patterns determine our own style of communication?
Explore the concept of double bind communication. Explore the concept of passive- aggressive communication versus responsible communication. Explore ways of clarifying and improving communications within families.

Accepted Answer

The answer of Do family communication patterns determine our own...

Question 6

The reduction of tension within a dyad by involving a third person is

Accepted Answer

Triangulation involves bringing in a third person to reduce tension or conflict between two people, often diverting the conflict or creating a new dynamic.

Question 7

Minuchin describes four family subsystems. Which of the following is not one of these subsystems?

Accepted Answer

Minuchin's family subsystems include the parental subsystem, sibling subsystem, and parent-child subsystem. The grandparent-child subsystem is not one of the subsystems described by Minuchin.

Question 8

When comparing role relationships, theorists generally consider which to be the most stable type relationship over time?

Accepted Answer

Complementary role relationships are generally considered the most stable over time because they involve two people assuming roles that balance or complement each other, leading to a more harmonious and sustainable interaction.

Question 9

Relatively minor adjustments in attitudes and behavior made in response to the needs of others in a role set is

Accepted Answer

Accommodation refers to the adjustments individuals make in their attitudes and behaviors to adapt to the needs and expectations of others within their social or professional roles.

Question 10

Rigid boundaries within a family system can create social isolation because of the absence of needed social transactions between family members. This condition is called

Accepted Answer

Disengagement refers to a situation where rigid boundaries within a family system limit social interactions and exchanges, leading to social isolation among family members.

Question 11

How do enmeshment and differentiation influence personality development? Explore the concept of the 'undifferentiated ego mass.' Contrast interpersonal and emotional differentiation. Explore whether enmeshment is ever functional.

Accepted Answer

The answer of How do enmeshment and differentiation influence personality...

Question 12

Sending a message about a message refers to

Accepted Answer

Metacommunication refers to communication about communication itself, such as discussing the way a message is to be understood or the underlying meanings behind the explicit message.

Question 13

In structural family theory, enduring family structures which are resistant to change are developed from

Accepted Answer

In structural family theory, enduring family structures are primarily developed from repeated patterns of interaction among family members. These patterns, over time, become resistant to change as they are reinforced through continuous practice.

Question 14

Overinvolvement with another individual in the family, resulting in loss of clear identity, which is a result of diffuse boundaries, is

Accepted Answer

Enmeshment refers to a relationship between two or more people in which personal boundaries are permeable and unclear. This often results in a loss of individual identity and an overinvolvement in each other's lives, which is characteristic of the situation described.

Question 15

How do family roles in the family of origin influence the subsequent development of self? Explore whether we are determined in our development by the roles in our family of origin. Explore the process of role making in adolescents and adults.

Accepted Answer

The answer of How do family roles in the family...

Question 16

How does the family of origin influence the patterns in our family of procreation?
Explore whether family processes can be changed. Explore the process of assessing one's own family and assessing strengths and weaknesses. Explore the processes by
which one can make rational choices about constructing family processes.

Accepted Answer

The answer of How does the family of origin influence...

Question 17

A factor that influences structure in all families, for example, the need for an executive hierarchy is called

Accepted Answer

A coalition refers to an alliance or union formed between members of a family, which can influence the family structure by creating a need for an executive hierarchy to manage relationships and decision-making.

Question 18

The concept of turbulence at the interface is characterized by two important effects on communication. One of those is information distortion, the other is

Accepted Answer

Turbulence at the interface in communication often leads to information loss, alongside information distortion, as the chaotic nature of the interaction can cause parts of the message to be lost or not transmitted effectively.

Question 19

In some dysfunctional families, communication becomes so idiosyncratic that the style of communication within that family almost could be called

Accepted Answer

In dysfunctional families, communication can become so unique and peculiar to the members of the family that it resembles a "private language," which is not easily understood by outsiders. This term captures the idea that the communication style is so specific to the family that it might as well be their own language.

Question 20

The husband in a marriage is a personable extrovert who tells funny stories. The wife is an appreciative listener. This is an example of a role set.

Accepted Answer

The answer of The husband in a marriage is a...

Quiz 9: Family Theories