Abstract This paper discusses how the term ?familydiversity? is used in sociology to explain the different types of situations in which a family can exist. It examines how for many years the nuclear family has been thought to be the most normal and best situation in which to live, not only by functionalists and New Right thinkers, but also by ordinary people in society. It looks at how research shows that the nuclear family is actually in the minority when looking at different family types and assesses the significance of the ideological claim that the nuclear family is "normal, natural and best" using different sociological theories which either challenge (feminism) or support this claim (functionalism).
From the Paper "The ideology of the family itself is very nuclear, suggesting that marriage, and a clear division of labour within the marriage is vital for the family to survive happily. Functionalists see the family as an important, primary agent of socialisation with its main function to socialise new generations into the culture of their society, teaching them vital norms and values, which works both positively for the individual and for society overall. Talcott Parsons (1955), one of the leading supporters of the functionalist view claimed that the nuclear family originated after the effects of industrialisation had required a more mobile workforce and only a nuclear family unit could allow this."
Abstract The authors examine the many themes and conflicts that surround the discussion of the family today. They reveal how the definition of "family" that the social elites construct is very different from what reality actually is. They show how economic realities, violence within the home, and discrimination on all levels, affect families in all walks of life. The authors do an excellent job in demonstrating how the division between men's and women's tasks have significantly changed since capitalism has become embedded within the society.
Abstract This paper examines the concept of the typical American family and discovers that no such concept exists. It looks at the diversity of American society and within this diversity, the different types of family structures which exist. The writer states that just as the American people are diverse, American family should be diverse too.
From the Paper "The typical American family may be an ideal, but it will never be a practical option. Even if the American family could be achieved on a broad level, it would only produce many problems for society. The better solution is to recognize that the American family is as diverse as the American people. Rather than trying to reduce this diversity in the family, it should be embraced, with every family free to create a structure that works for them."
Abstract This paper investigates the inherent problems that exist in families characterized by parents and stepparents of a biracial union or of a union that is characterized by diversity in terms of ethnic, cultural or religious differences. It also looks at diverse households headed by lesbian or gay parents. The paper analyzes the socio-cultural theories of Roland Tharp and the 'Spheres of Influence' as proposed in the work of Dr. Joyce Epstein.
Table of Contents:
Abstract
Objective
Introduction
Conceptual Framework
Literature Review
Intervention
Outcomes
Discussion
Conclusion
From the Paper "It is clear that it is not possible to just 'ignore' the differences that exist in hopes that they become illusory or nonexistent because these differences are real and are dynamic in the lives of these children. What has been noted in this study to be of great importance is the active participation of the parents and stepparents in the daily activities and events that take place at school because as these parents integrate themselves more fully into the community they effectively place safezones into effect for their children and at the same time present a model for other parents and other children as to the appropriate behavior in the face of the differences that exist. It is not possible that these differences will merely go away but what is possible is that the community at large will become used to the differences thereby enabling the children to fully participate in the school and community events without having a brand upon them due to these differences in racial or culture."
Abstract This paper describes the traditional nuclear family as a mother, a working father and their biological or adopted descendants. The paper then summarizes the history of this family model. The paper then points out that there are also alternative family types such as childless families, same-sex or opposite-sex partners, families with same-sex parents, single parents, grandparents and a variety of relatives and friends and that the most common nuclear family today consists of two working parents. The paper concludes that, despite the fact that the myth of the model family is challenged on many fronts within society, it continues to exist as a strongly held belief within society.
From the Paper "These variations in the format of families with respect to roles provide a great deal of information about changes in gender role behaviours within the family context over history. While it used to be expected that women would perform household duties and childcare, while men took care of the financial aspects of a family's existence, today it is much more common for the division of labour not to be arbitrarily determined by gender. Despite this, women do still complete the majority of housework and childcare within the United States."
Tags: generations survival same-sex, right winged conservatives, diversity
Abstract This paper analyzes the personal family model and non-directive teaching within therapy. It discusses the importance of family members receiving group therapy to successfully redefine their roles and their interpersonal relationships within the family unit. It also describes the types of problems that may affect the treatment, the phases of treatments and what constitutes successful therapy for the individual within family therapy.
Table of Contents:
Abstract
Introduction
Background of the Topic
Personal Problems
Social Problems
Academic Problems
Treatment Phases for Autonomy
From the Paper "The second phase of treatment occurs through building a trustworthy working relationship between the client and the mental health professional. This relationship is important, as the mental health professional will be recommending lifestyle changes and various psychological coping strategies to the client as the therapy progresses. This means that the client will have to trust the mental health professional in order to accept these recommendations and integrate changes into his or her personal lifestyle."
Abstract This paper introduces an American family selected for a review and analysis of their lifestyle and the social and financial factors affecting their lifestyle. The paper provides background information on the family under review, describes the economic and emotional health of the family, and then describes their strategies for coping and adapting when they are confronted with sudden misfortune and disruption to their lives.
From the Paper "The family under review is typical of an upper middle class intact Caucasian suburban cluster unit wherein there are three children, two parents, dog, cat, and hamster. Religious affiliation is Catholic but practice is sporadic. All children attend a suburban school noted for its rigorous educational curricula and college preparation programming. Both mother and father are professional educators and there exists a strong parental interest in the children's education, both formally and informally. Vacations are important to all family members as they represent not only relaxation but also an opportunity for new learning endeavors. All five family members recognize the need for separateness and connectedness as well. In fact even though two siblings are fraternal twins each has their own bedroom in the family's five-bedroom three-bath home. Encouragement is garnered to ensure, as best possible, that the children differentiate themselves within the family unit rather than independent of the unit. The nurturing model set forth by the parents is representative of controlled flexibility, developmental responsibility, shared trustworthiness, emphasis on individual uniqueness, and freedom for personality development. The Zeitgeist, or the spirit of this family, exists in the unit's expressed need for individual autonomy, moral regulation, learning diversity, and educational freedom."
Abstract This paper studies blended and step families, exploring their potential benefits and unique obstacles. The paper stresses the importance of counseling prior to remarriage, particularly when children are involved.
From the Paper "From adoption and surrogate parenting to increasing rates of remarriage and same-sex parents, the number of diverse family constellations in United States society continues to grow. Such constellations offer enormous benefits as well as ..."
A case assessment of family risk and protection among the Latino immigrant population in the United States, which aims to help social workers in the treatment of this population.
Abstract This paper examines cultural, social, psychological and biological issues regarding the Latino immigrant population in the United States by focusing on one particular case study. The paper emphasizes the importance of this study for social workers who work with the Latino population and stresses the moral responsibility of the social worker to act correctly through constant self-evaluation, in order to avoid prejudice in the treatment of diverse clients such as the Latino population. The paper concludes that confronting these issues before beginning treatment may allow the social worker to prepare engagement strategies for building better rapport with Latino clients.
Outline:
Family Risk/Protection/Resilience Framework
Biological, Medical, and Cognitive Factors of Development
Adult Psychosocial Development
Intervention
From the Paper "Although faced with adversity and socio-environmental hardship, resiliency is distinguished among many Latino immigrant children (Gonzalez-Ramos & Nester-Sanchez, 2001). It appears as though Esmerelda has been able to maintain a high level of psychosocial functioning and academic success while balancing the demands of two worlds: mi tierra and my country (Gonzalez & Gonzalez-Ramos, 2005; Gonzalez-Ramos & Nester-Sanchez, 2001). As a Latino immigrant, Esmerelda has faced multiple challenges posed by biculturism, but, as a lesbian woman of color, her experience may actually be described as triculturism. Triculturism will be defined as oppression due to three factors: heterosexism and negative stigma imposed by societal prejudice to sexual orientation; racial discrimination against people of color; and limited acceptance of sexual orientation within the racial community of origin. (Harper, Jernewall, & Zea, 2004)."
Abstract This paper summarizes and compares two research studies conducted on family integration into the community and its impact on the emotional, social, and physical development of children.
From the Paper "The trend in increasing accountability for schools, teachers and student performance via standardized testing has come about due to education reforms such as President Bush's No Child Left Behind Act. Two research studies in the literature reveal that student learning and performance are enhanced through family integration into community and school-related activities. The first study examining data from over U S schools on their efforts to develop high quality programs of school family and community partnerships was conducted by Steven B Sheldon and Frances
Abstract This paper is an analysis of the characteristics of diversity, focusing on benefits, challenges and finally scrutinizing various techniques of managing the diversity at individual and organizational levels. It discusses the workforce in terms of diversity as a legal obligation and also changing workforce demographics due to organizations' needs. The paper aims at highlighting various characteristics of diversity while focusing on benefits, challenges and finally scrutinizing various techniques of managing the diversity at individual and organizational level.
Table of Contents:
Abstract
Introduction
What is Diversity Reasons for Emergence of Diversity Characteristics of Diversity Different Communication Patterns
Benefits of Diversity The Challenges
Individual Approaches to Managing Diversity Organizational Approaches to Managing Diversity Conclusion
References
Table-1: Salary Differentials
Table-2: Overall Population Growth and Racial Composition
From the Paper "No two humans are alike. People are different not only in gender, culture, race, social and psychological characteristics but also in their perspectives and prejudices. Society had discriminated on these aspects for centuries. Women and minority groups were denied of their due rights. But not any more. Since 1960s, when federal legislation prohibited employment discrimination, minorities and female applicants have become the fastest-growing segment in the work force. Diversity makes the work-force heterogeneous. The work-force diversity used in the corporate world today is the varied characteristics of employees working in same organization. Despite the magnitude of the ethical, legal, economic, social, and political dimensions that define diversity initiatives in the workplace, the fields of human resource development and continuing professional education have yet to develop an integrated vision for creating more inclusive work environments. There are issues being raised. Dominant groups including top level managers are not fully prepared to accept the reality. There are communication problems as well. But then there are enormous benefits too. Organizations that are still lacking in this field will have to initiate measures to make their workforce diverse in order to compete or even survive in the coming decades."
Abstract The purpose of this study is to identify effective strategies that may be applied by employing organizations to attain diversity goals. Data was collected and analyzed from a sample of 32 private sector organizations with 500 or more employees. The study found that both functional and hierarchical diversity in organizations are related significantly to: diversity program structure, rank and file support for the program, community support for the program, top management support for the program, program participation requirements, and program communications. The paper includes charts and statistics as well as the questionnaire used in the study.
Contents:
Introduction to the Study
Statement of the Problem
Purpose of the Study
Importance of the Study
Scope of the Study
Rationale of the Study
Definitions of Terms
Overview of the Study
Review of the Literature
Introduction
Group Values and Social Identity
Formation and Roles of Groups
Governmental Framework for the
Management of Diversity The "Glass Ceiling" Issue
Alternative Explanations for the
Under Representation of Women in
Top Management
The Role of Achievement Motivation
Organizational Strategies for the
Management of Diversity Dimensions of Diversity and
Diversity Management
Responses to Increased
Cultural Diversity Discussion of the Literature
Review Findings
Literature Review Summary
Methodology
Introduction
Research Design
Hypotheses
Operationalizing the Variables
Population and Sample
Instrumentation and Data Collection
Data Analysis
Data Analysis
Overview of the Findings
Results of the Hypothesis Testing
Hypothesis 1 Results
Hypothesis 2 Results
Hypothesis 3 Results
Hypothesis 4 Results
Summary, Discussion and Recommendations
Summary of the Study
Discussion of the Findings
Recommendations for Further Research
Appendix
References
From the Paper "Mandatory participation in diversity programs was found to be associated with the highest levels of diversity, and optional participation in diversity programs was found to be associated with higher levels of diversity than that found in organizations with no diversity programs. Program communication that was both frequent and scheduled was found to be associated with the highest levels of diversity, and programs were communication was sporadic were found to be associated with higher levels of diversity than that found in organizations with no diversity programs."
Tags: management, business, organization, flexibility, diverse
Abstract This paper uses the example of Con Edison as a company that has successfully tapped into the talents of a diverse workforce. The paper discusses ways that companies can take advantage of the different cultural backgrounds of their employees and use these differences to benefit the company.
Defining Diversity Tapping into Diverse Talents
How to Capitalize on Diversity The Paradigm Shift from Diversity as Liability to Diversity as Opportunity
Incorporating Diversity into Decision Making
Corporate Strategies to Capitalize on Diversity Communication Issues
From the Paper "Con Edison is a major employer in the greater New York City area providing energy and energy-related products and services. In addition to the five boroughs of New York City, it serves Westchester County in New York and small areas of New Jersey and Pennsylvania. It is located in the area of the country that has long been the first destination of many people immigrating to the United States. In addition it has well-established ethnic communities comprised of the descendants of people who brought new cultures to New York City and then put down roots there. As a result, the employment pool for Con Edison is one of the most diverse in the nation, including people not only of both genders but also of all ages and ethnic backgrounds. "
Tags: ethnic, communities, employment, pool, diversity, of, background, cultural, assumptions
Abstract This synopsis examines the current state of diversity within the health care industry and suggests approaches to alleviating diversity issues within the industry at large and within the communities the health care industry serves.
Diversity in Health Care
Abstract
Minorities and Health Care
Diversity and Women
Ecosystems Approach to Diversity Managing Diversity: Best Practices
Progress in Reform
Conclusions/Analysis
From the Paper "The study also reveals that racial and ethnic minorities are much less likely to get treatment for serious conditions including HIV and cancer. According to the Institute patient and provider attitudes combined are to blame for the inequality that exists. The study suggests that "system-level factors" exist that contribute to racial and ethnic inequality in the healthcare industry, and that among these are language barriers, geographic barriers, cost containment pressures such as those imposed by managed care and even attitudes and beliefs."
Abstract This paper evaluates methods organizations can adopt to help promote greater gender diversity. These methods include conducting annual diversity surveys, providing team building seminars and encouraging team building efforts within the organization. Such efforts lay the groundwork for building a culture that promotes diversity and encourages women to excel at all levels of the organization. It also works to provide women the tools they need to succeed within the organization and within a group setting.
Outline:
Intervention Methods and Diversity in the Organization
Direct Methods of Establishing Diversity Competence
Indirect Methods of Establishing Diversity Competence
Conclusions
From the Paper "Traditional intervention methods may include various techniques and tools used to eliminate the cultural biases that exist within enterprises large and small. Intervention methods basically involved direct and indirect actions that one engages in to alter certain events or behaviors to improve the performance of a group and reduce behaviors considered undesirable (Garmston, 2004). Interventions may be helpful in promoting greater empowerment among groups that are traditionally singled out in the workplace, including women."
