The Household and the Economy

This discussion addresses module outcomes 1 and 2. In this module, you learned about the different types of families and our economic systems. You learned about the changing of the family to include many types of family structures beyond the traditional nuclear family. You learned theories that explain the major role that family plays in the structure of society. You also learned about the troubles that families face today. In this discussion, you will analyze the family and the economy, linking the macro- and micro-sociological levels of analysis to show the way institutions shape social life.

Before beginning this activity, be sure to read the Module Notes and the assigned readings and viewings. Use as much detail from the readings and other learning materials in the module as possible to answer the following questions.

1. What are some of the changes in the U.S. family structure that are most notable to you?
2. How might the economy have contributed to these changes?
3. Pick one of the theories that you learned in this module and apply it to your understanding of the relationship between the family and the economy.

Conerly, T.R., Holmes, K., & Tamang, A.L. (2021). Chapter 18: . In, Introduction to sociology 3e(pp. 521-549).OpenStax.

Conerly, T.R., Holmes, K., & Tamang, A.L. (2021). Chapter 14: . In, Introduction to sociology 3e (pp. 409-429).OpenStax.

• Matthew J. Bidwell. (2013). . Organization Science, 24(4), 10611069 (1070-1082 optional).
• Cummins, D. (2016, June 28) PBS Newshour. PBS
• Horowitz, J.M. (2019, September 12) . Washington, DC: Pew Research Center.