Sooo I kind of forgot about having to blog so I am going to
get caught up!
This week we talked about theories. In the most simple
terms, a theory is an explanation. All family situations are so different so
instead of stating facts we use theories. There were four main theories that we
talked about in class. Systems theory, exchange theory, symbolic interaction
theory, and conflict theory.
The systems theory: A variety of theories fall under the
general heading of a systems theory, but all share certain assumptions. Systems
theory asserts that the intimate group must be analyzed as a whole; the family
has boundaries that distinguish it from other families. Basically everyone in
the family has a role that is for the benefit of the whole family, not
individually.
The exchange theory: The concept of this theory is “you owe
me one”. It is the attempt to keep your costs, which could be different things
like time, money ext. lower than your rewards. If a relationship consistently
costs us more than it rewards us, we are likely to avoid the person or break
the relationship.
The symbolic interaction theory: This theory says that
people are defined by their interaction experiences. An important concept in
symbolic interaction is definition of the situation. If we define a situation
as real, it has real consequences.
The conflict theory: This theory asserts that all societies
are characterized by inequality, conflict, and change as groups within the
society struggle over scarce resources.
Patterns in intimate relationships change over time. But these
theories help guide the constant research of families and their relationships.
