SO454 Half Unit
Families and Inequalities
This information is for the 2022/23 session.
Teacher responsible
Dr Ursula Henz STC S100B
Availability
This course is available on the MSc in Inequalities and Social Science, MSc in International Migration and Public Policy, MSc in International Migration and Public Policy (ÐÓ°ÉÂÛ̳ and Sciences Po) and MSc in Sociology. This course is available as an outside option to students on other programmes where regulations permit.
This course has a limited number of places (it is controlled access). Places are allocated based on a written statement. Priority will be given to students on the MSc in Inequalities and Social Science, the MSc in International Migration and Public Policy and MSc in Sociology. This may mean that not all students who apply will be able to get a place on this course.
Course content
The course provides an introduction into selected issues of family sociology, focusing on families in contemporary Western societies. It explores inequalities within and between families and the role of families in reproducing social inequality. Major themes include: childhood; transition to adulthood; partnership formation and dissolution; parenthood; gender roles and the division of paid and unpaid work; intergenerational relationships.
Teaching
This course is delivered through a combination of lectures, online materials and seminars totalling a minimum of 20 hours in the MT.
Reading Weeks: Students on this course will have a reading week in MT Week 6, in line with departmental policy.
Formative coursework
Essay (1,500 words) in the MT.
Indicative reading
A detailed reading list will be provided at the beginning of the course. General reading: J Treas, J Scott, M Richards (eds.) (2014) The Wiley Blackwell Companion to The Sociology of Families, Chichester, West Sussex: Wiley Blackwell. Selected recommended books: S Arber & C Attias-Donfut (2000) The Myth of Generational Conflict. The Family and State in Ageing Societies. London and New York: Routledge; A Hochschild, Arlie (2012) The Second Shift. Working Parents and the Revolution at Home. New York: Penguin; A Lareau (2011) Unequal Childhoods. Class, Race and Family Life. University of California Press: Berkeley, Los Angeles, London.
Assessment
Take-home assessment (90%) in January.
Class participation (10%) in the MT.
Take home exam (2 questions, 90%).
Attendance at all seminars and submission of all set coursework is required.
Key facts
Department: Sociology
Total students 2021/22: 14
Average class size 2021/22: 14
Controlled access 2021/22: Yes
Lecture capture used 2021/22: Yes (MT)
Value: Half Unit
Course selection videos
Some departments have produced short videos to introduce their courses. Please refer to the course selection videos index page for further information.
Personal development skills
- Self-management
- Team working
- Communication
