Key facts
UNE unit code: SOCY336
*You are viewing the 2026 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Not offered in 2026
- Yes
- No
- No
- 6
Unit information
In this unit we examine sociological aspects of the modern family. It unpacks a range of notions (such as equality, care, responsibility) associated with intimate relations in family lives, and enables students to understand these notions in a critical, reflexive way. This unit considers how families, parenthood, and childhood are constructed and experienced differently in diverse social and political contexts. It highlights a cross-cultural perspective that critiques the "naturalness" of family lives.
By the end of this unit, students will be able to think critically about a wide range of issues that are significant and meaningful for both individuals and societies. These issues include: love and intimacy, marriage and commitment, divorce and separation, parenthood, childhood, fertility and technology, ageing and care, family and work, sexuality, and violence.
Intensive schools
There are no intensive schools required for this unit.
Enrolment rules
Notes
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- demonstrate coherent theoretical knowledge of the concepts, history and diversity surrounding contemporary family issues and social constructs;
- critically examine a variety of contemporary family related issues, with the ability to engage with alternative theoretical approaches;
- conduct independent online research to find, examine and assess relevant information, with the ability to communicate findings effectively to others;
- use autonomy and judgement in self-critique and in the evaluation of group work; and
- identify and analyse changes happening to the family in Australia and the impact of global changes to the family.
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
| Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assessment 1: Online Post | No | 5% | All offerings | No. Words: 250 |
| Assessment 2: Written Task | Yes | 20% | All offerings | Commentary/Analysis/Written Piece No. Words: 750-1000 |
| Assessment 3: Essay | Yes | 60% | All offerings | No. Words: 2500-3000 |
| Assessment 4: Online Quiz | Yes | 15% | All offerings | No. Words: 750 |
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Note: Students are expected to purchase prescribed material. Please note that textbook requirements may vary from one teaching period to the next.
A Sociology of Family Life
ISBN: 9781509541362
Deborah Chambers, Pablo Gracia , John Wiley and Sons 2nd edn. 2021
Text refers to: All offerings
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