Abstract
In this article, the writer uses Talcott Parson's social theory of functionalism and Lewis Coser's social conflict theory and applies them to two contemporary social phenomena in the news media; the widening gap of disagreement among evangelicals about their platform and public identity, and a policy that places "wanted posters" of deadbeat dads on pizza boxes.

From the Paper
"Dr Peter Kivisto maintains there is a remarkable variety of work that falls under the rubric social theory. Various social phenomena are explained by such theories from social problems like crime and violence to the battles over same-sex marriage and abortion. This analysis will investigate two social phenomena explaining them through the social theories of functionalism and conflict theory The first social phenomenon is addressed in Rachel Zoll's article 'Christian Right at Crossroads' which discusses the growing division in ideology and public identity of evangelicals vying for political ..."

Tags:Talcott Parson, government, special interest groups, same sex marriage, attorneys, social services, public policy, deadbeat dads, marginalized groups

Abstract
Men are increasingly receiving custody of their children, leading to an augmented rate of single-father families in the US. However, many observers are still under the impression that there are only a few custodial fathers; consequently, the existing data on this group is limited. This project is an analysis of the available literature on African-American fathers who have custody of their children. Considering there are a number of factors that lead fathers to become sole custodians, assist them in the process thereof, and resultant changes that occur both in their lives and the lives of their children, the following questions navigate this study: 1) How do African-American fathers become single parents? 2) What social networks are available to assist these fathers? 3) How does becoming sole custodians shape their lives?

Table of Contents
Introduction: African American Men & Society
Jennifer Hamer on Black Custodial Fathers
"Mothering", Can He Do It?
How Do Fathers Become Custodial Parents?
What Social Networks are Available to Assist Single Fathers?
How Does Becoming Single Parents Shape Their Lives?
Conclusion

From the Paper
"Traditional images of what an American family should be would include a father, mother and child (ren). National increases in divorce and non-marital childbearing in the United States have changed the face of the typical American family. This alteration in the nuclear family ushered in a new family model, the single parent or guardian (as they are sometimes termed). Single parents have become a major component within American culture, but much to the surprise of some researchers, it is not only women who are rearing today's youth. A growing number of fathers are assuming primary care of their children, but public policy/programs have not responded effectively to this phenomenon. Public ideas and images have given men the principles by which they should govern the way they speak, the way they look, the way they should respond to a given situation and how they should behave as fathers (Hamer, 2001). These standards have existed within American culture for decades and have made very little if any adjustment overtime. From the turn of the century to the 1970's "ideal" fathers were primarily perceived as warmhearted providers on whom all family members could depend (Hamer, 2001). In general, men were measured by their breadwinning role and the standard of living they were able to provide for themselves and their families."

Tags:child, custody, dads, deadbeat, support