PSYB20H3 Lecture Notes - Nuclear Family, Sibling Rivalry, Adaptive Control
Document Summary
Discuss evolutionary origins of the family, and cite functions contemporary families perform for society. The family unit of our evolutionary ancestors enhanced survival by ensuring a relatively even balance of male hunters and female gatherers within a social group. Larger kin networks increased the chances of successful competition with other humans for resources and provided assistance with child rearing. Though contemporary families share some functions with other institutions, they retain primary responsibility for reproduction, socialization, and emotional support. Describe the social systems perspective on family functioning. Contemporary researchers view the family from a social systems perspective as a complex set of interacting relationships influenced by the larger social context. Family members mutually influence one another, both directly and indirectly. Connections to the community, through both formal organizations and informal social networks, provide social support that promotes effective family interaction and children"s development. Discuss child-rearing styles, and explain how effective parents adapt child rearing to children"s growing competence.
