Encyclopedia of Opinion
Question
What is the sociological definition of a family?
Position5 of 6

It depends on the type of family and approach

This position holds that there is no single sociological definition of family — it depends on the type and the analytical approach. It distinguishes families of orientation from those of procreation, and argues micro, meso and macro lenses each define family differently.

Supporting arguments · 3

  1. Families of orientation vs families of procreation
    There is an important difference between the family you are born into, and the family you create with a lover.
  2. You cannot group all families under one sociological definition
    Families appear in many guises and forms. No single sociological definition can effectively include all families, while excluding close friendship groups.
  3. Micro, Macro, and meso definitions
    Sociological definitions for a family vary depending on the sociological approach.