Postmoderism and Family Diversity

Postmoderism and Family Diversity

1. Weeks

   • Argues society value diversity & choice
     • E.G the legal recognition of same-sex couples through The Civil Partnership Act of 2004

2. Argue family life is characterised by diversity - there's no longer any consensus about norms and values.

   • We live in a culture were we can 'pick & mix' our identities and our family life.
     • Gender roles no longer fixed & relationships within the family reflect this change - E.G crisis in masculinity has resulted in men redefining their sexuality & family commitment.

3. Pakulski & Water (1996)

   • Believe contemporary family roles are now a matter of choice.

4. Stacey (1996)

   • Looks @ family from postmodern perspective - sees no generally agreed norms & values directing the shape of life.
     • She welcomes the diversity, believing that it may bring more equal & democratic relationships.

5. Evaluation

   • Stacey's research not representative - conducted in Sillicon Valley in California.
     • BUT, she may have identified a trend which is speading to wider society