Jan
Essay Template: What is a Family?
What is a Family? (Char, 2009), 6 pages
Preview
“Call it a clan, call it a network, call it a tribe, call it a family. Whatever you call it, whoever you
are, you need one.”
- Jane Howard Families (1995)
The family is a social unit of two or more people who cohabit, may be related through
marriage, blood ties or choice, and share in socialisation processes of children whether they are
biological or adopted (Macionis & Plummer, 2002). Many theories and models within sociology
argue that the family has undergone dramatic structural and inter-personal changes following
post-industrialization and its subsequent social changes.
This paper explores the argument that the family is a haven. Firstly, three theoretical
perspectives will be presented in regards to the family being a ‘haven’ or a ‘violent place’.
Secondly, the implications for children and families will be presented. Finally, a conclusion will
synthesise the main points raised in this paper, and provide recommendations for future research.
