The module will explore the following indicative topics:
• Sociological analysis of the term 'parenting'
• The social history of debates about 'the family' and the sociology of privacy
• The changing meaning of childhood, motherhood and fatherhood
• The meaning of the term ‘intensive parenthood’ and its relation to expertise and risk culture
• The sociology of identity, as applied in studies of the experience of parenting
• The relationship of policies linking family life to broader social policy
• Critiques of state intervention in family life and of particular contemporary parenting policies
Total contact hours: 23
Private study hours: 177
Total study hours: 200
MA in Sociology
Main assessment methods
Coursework - essay (5,000 words) - 100%
Reassessment methods
100% coursework
Lee, E. 2014. 'Introduction'. In E. Lee, J. Bristow, C.Faircloth and J.Macvarish, Parenting Culture Studies, Basingstoke: Palgrave
Gillies, V. 2011. From Function to Competence: engaging with the new politics of the family. Sociological Research Online 16(4)11
http://www.socresonline.org.uk/16/4/11.html
See the library reading list for this module (Canterbury)
The intended subject specific learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
8.1 Demonstrate familiarity with sociological accounts of the term 'parenting', be able to situate 'parenting' as a social problem in a wider
historical content by acquiring understanding of the sociology of 'the family', and be able to identify and understand the links between
sociological theories of risk society, public/private, identity formation, and 'parenting'.
8.2 Identify and critically analyse the ideologies and values that underpin contemporary concerns about parenting and related policy
developments using sociological insights.
8.3 Discuss in written form sociological accounts of the family, parenting culture and parenting policy and communicate the nuances and
complexities of these accounts.
8.4 Demonstrate an ability to assess the validity of explanations given for the problem of 'parenting' and present sociologically reasoned
arguments.
The intended generic learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
9.1 Present arguments in oral and written form using research and empirical data, at a level expected of a student undertaking postgraduate
study.
9.2 Analyse and synthesise research evidence through application of sociological theory to develop understandings of social problems and
policy responses.
9.3 Conduct research, by using library e-journal and other on-line resources at a level appropriate for postgraduate study.
9.4. Organise information in a clear and coherent manner, through essay writing, and discussion at a level appropriate for postgraduate study.
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