Reflections of Sociological Theories

Sociological theory is defined as a set of interrelated ideas that allow for the systemization of knowledge of the social world. This knowledge is then used to explain the social world and make predictions about the future of the social world (Ritzer, Hill 2007). In my research I am evaluating the impact of sociological theory behind what we call family and the social change that has evolved during the ages. There are three factors that must be reviewed Functionalism, Conflict and Interactionism. If you were to look in the dictionary the definition of family is a group consisting of parents and children living together in one household. Well to me that is an understatement of what family actually is. Family is so much more than just parents in children in a household. When I was growing up the family consisted of multiple people in one household like grandparents, parents, their children, aunts, uncles and even their children. In my paper there are a few questions that will need to be answered. How does each theory apply to the family sociological institution? What are the similarities? What are the differences? How does each theory affect the views of the individual who is a part of the institution? How does each theory affect the approach to social change within the selected institution? Within the Sociological institution selected, how does each theory affect the views of society? The family is the institution most responsible for the achievement of adult satisfaction and social integration (Ross, Sawhill 1975). The beginning of human life begins with the family institution, depending on the upbringing of the person will most likely determine the social future for society. Functionalists view the family from the standpoint of universal functions the family provides to society (Robertson, 1989). This statement says to me that depending on the quality of family environment one is brought up in may determine if the person is an asset or