Postmodernism and family quiz

What are the two key characteristics of postmodernity with regards to society?

• Rapid technological regression

• Homogeneity and unity

• Stability and predictability

• Diversity and fragmentation

Who argues that we've now entered a new postmodern phase?

• David Cheal

• Judith Stacy

• Postmodern theorists

• Anthony Giddens

According to David Cheal, how has the family structure changed in postmodern society?

• Decrease in family diversity

• Increased focus on nuclear family

• Return to traditional family values

• No single dominant family structure

What did Judith Stacy find in her research on women's freedom?

• Women are less free in postmodernity

• Women have no influence on family structure

• Women prefer traditional roles

• Women are the main agents of change within the family

What is the individualization thesis?

• A theory that society is becoming more homogenous

• A belief that traditional roles are more important than ever

• The idea that class, gender, and family have lost influence over individuals

• The concept that technology has no impact on society

According to Giddens, what has transformed the family and marriage?

• Greater choice and equality between men and women

• The decline of technology

• The enforcement of traditional roles

• Decreased importance of personal relationships

What does the 'pure relationship' concept entail?

• Relationships with no emotional connection

• Relationships based solely on financial stability

• Relationships based on traditional gender roles

• Relationships existing to meet each partner's needs and continuing as long as they do

How does Ulrich Beck describe modern families?

• As completely stable and predictable

• As negotiated families

• As less important than friendships

• As traditional and unchanging

What is the 'zombie family' concept according to Beck?

• Families that adhere strictly to traditional roles

• Families that offer security and stability

• Families with strong connections to their ancestors

• Families that cannot offer the security they once did and have become unstable

What criticism do Carol Smart and Vanessa May have towards the individualization thesis?

• It overemphasizes the role of gender and class

• It underestimates the impact of technology

• It ignores the importance of traditional roles

• It exaggerates the extent of personal choice and freedom