Family Theories

Hello everyone! Welcome back!!

There is so much in this world that we simply do not fully know or comprehend. That is why we are in a state of continual growth and learning. In the scientific world there is a formula we use to answer the questions we encounter. This is called the scientific method. We observe something that poses a question, do the research on the given topic, formulate a hypothesis, perform tests, and then gather results to draw a conclusion.

A theory is an attempt to explain a phenomenon. A phenomenon is an action that we observe that causes us to ask questions. We theorize as an attempt to make sense of our observations. We all do this daily without even recognizing. Our own theories change the way we see the world, interact with family members, and develop relationships. For example, an observation can be that you see differences when it comes to sibling order in your family that impacts over all child outcomes. I know I have! A theory would be my assumption. Perhaps my reasoning is that children that are older must learn how to provide for themselves and help more in larger families. They become more dependent, whereas the younger siblings are given everything. This can lead me to believe that younger siblings often get away with more when it comes to responsibilities and they are more spoiled. This theory can impact my worldview of younger siblings. It may influence the way I raise my own children or the number of children that I choose to have. 

An interesting fact I learned recently is that having 3 children is actually less stressful than 2 children. Let me explain. With one child both parents share the love and attention equally with that child. That love is divided when you have two children, and it can be harder to balance meaningful relationships. There is often competition for attention by the two siblings. When there are three or more children the kids form smaller circles where they bond with each other. This means that the fertility rate (1.7) I mentioned in my last blog is not ideal for children's success. Smaller families can bring other benefits but having a larger family causes more bonds within the children when parent influences are spread so thin. Large families can at times have its challenges, but the science suggests that there are more benefits for having multiple siblings.  

Social scientists use four main ways to theorize and work out family issues. These methods are known as family systems theory, exchange theory, symbolic interaction theory, and conflict theory. 

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First up we have what is called family systems theory. This theory is based on the fact that we are all part of a large family. Much can be learned through observing and seeing trends in the common everyday family. In this theory behavior is analyzed to determine what outcomes are most likely to occur in a functioning family.

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Exchange theory says that we tend to stay in relationships that are most meaningful, meaning we get as much as we put in. In any relationship there needs to be some give and take. Like a scale, we need to have it balanced for it to succeed. 

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Symbolic interaction theory is looking at the daily personal interactions we have inside relationships and drawing a general conclusion for how most relationships are in our society. 

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Conflict theory is the thought that in each relationship we have natural occurring conflict. For example, a newly married couple may face some struggles in their first few weeks/months/years together. Conflict can be good, fighting on the other hand can and should be avoided. It is often that conflicts help us better understand our own relationships. They strengthen and nourish those bonds we care about the most when approached with the right behavior.

At the end of the day, all families are unique. What works for one family, may or may not work for another. How we observe other families and our own can cause us to create theories. These theories change how we view the world. What observations have you seen in family life?? What theories do you have?? How do these theories impact the way you see the world?

I would love to hear your thoughts!