SOCY1058

Sociology of the Family

In recent years, U.S. public policy has focused on strengthening the nuclear family as a primary strategy for reducing poverty and improving the lives of America's youth. It is often assumed that this type of family is healthy, financially independent, heterosexual, violence-free, normative, and grounded in historical tradition. This course examines these assumptions sociologically while considering systemic variations in race/ethnicity, class, gender, ability, and sexual orientation within and among American families.

Course overview

Department
Sociology
School
MCAS
Credits
3

Requirements fulfilled

  • University Core: Social Science (All undergraduates)

Requirement eligibility can vary by school, cohort, and section. Confirm the selected section in EagleApps or with an advisor.

Official evaluation summary

3.53 / 5

Based on 21 aggregate responses from BC Avalanche/Blue evaluations.

Data freshness

Course and evaluation data last updated 2026-07-23. Source details and limitations are documented in Data Sources and Methodology.

Instructors

  • Patricia Arend
    Fall 2026, Summer 2026, Fall 2025, Summer 2025 · Official rating 3.66/5

Sections

  • Section 01
    Summer 2026 · Patricia Arend · On-line Asynchronous · Offered
  • Section 01
    Fall 2026 · Patricia Arend · Devlin Hall 221 W 04:30PM-06:50PM · Offered