The Sociology of Families Reader

Through a carefully curated selection of readings highlighting important empirical research on family life in the U.S., The Sociology of Families Reader: Issues, Perspectives, and Debates introduces students to the major questions, influential findings, and contested interpretations that animate the sociology of families today.

The volume is organized into nine units, each dedicated to a unique aspect of family life. Units begin with a brief introduction, which situates the readings for that unit within broader patterns and trends playing out in both the institution of family and in society at large. Units I and II examine culturally dominant conceptions of family life and the dramatic ways in which the institution of family has changed over time. The remaining units are arranged in step with the life course, from dating and cohabitation to marriage and divorce. Students read about sexuality, reproduction, parenting, as well as violence and abuse within the family context. Additional topics include women’s conformity or resistance to traditional weddings, family diversity and gender convergence, college hookup culture, marriage equality, how divorce affects children, childfree adults, corporal punishment, and more.

Insightful and engaging, The Sociology of Families Reader is an ideal resource for courses and programs in family studies and sociology.