Exam 15: Family Social Policy
What are the major arguments for or against a biological versus a relationship policy as applied to (1) birth-parent versus social-parent custody, and (2) heterosexual versus homosexual marriage and children?
The major arguments for a biological policy in the context of birth-parent versus social-parent custody and heterosexual versus homosexual marriage and children are rooted in the belief that biological ties hold a special significance in family relationships. Proponents of a biological policy argue that biological parents have a natural and inherent bond with their children, and that this bond should be given priority in custody decisions. They also argue that children benefit from knowing and having a relationship with their biological parents, and that biological ties provide a sense of identity and belonging.
On the other hand, the major arguments against a biological policy emphasize the importance of the relationship between parents and children, regardless of biological ties. Critics argue that a relationship-based policy is more inclusive and considers the emotional and psychological bonds that develop between social parents and children. They also argue that prioritizing biological ties can be harmful, particularly in cases where biological parents are unfit or absent, and that it can perpetuate discrimination against non-traditional families, such as same-sex couples.
In the context of heterosexual versus homosexual marriage and children, the arguments for a biological policy often stem from traditional and religious beliefs about the importance of biological reproduction and the nuclear family structure. Proponents may argue that children should be raised by their biological parents whenever possible, and that same-sex couples should not have the same rights to marriage and parenting as heterosexual couples.
Conversely, the arguments against a biological policy in this context emphasize the importance of love, stability, and commitment in parenting, regardless of the parents' sexual orientation. Critics argue that same-sex couples can provide a loving and nurturing environment for children, and that denying them the right to marry and parent based on biological factors is discriminatory and unjust.
Ultimately, the debate between a biological versus a relationship policy in these contexts reflects broader societal discussions about the definition of family, the rights of parents and children, and the role of biology in shaping family relationships. Both sides present compelling arguments, and the resolution of these debates often involves balancing the rights and interests of all parties involved.
A __________ policy emphasizes heterosexual marriages and genetic ties of parent and child as best suited to childrearing.
biological or birth
A study of two thousand firms with ten or more employees indicated that where job guaranteed parental leave existed, leave taking was not a problem and firms were able to deal with it without increasing substantial direct costs.
True
John Scanzoni argues that the most effective level at which to target social policy pertaining to families is on the meso level. This focuses on
What does the text suggest about the future of the family system?
Scanzoni argues for family policy at a mesolevel. What does he mean?
Differentiate the role of the family policy researcher from the policy advocate and the alternative education professional.
The goal of family impact analysis is to determine if a specific program is working.
DaVanzo and others predict that the conservative religious and political movements in the United States in the 1980s and 1990s will lead to more people marrying, having children, and staying married (fewer divorces).
What are arguments for and against policy at a federal or national level and policy at a state or local level? Provide an example to illustrate different likely consequences resulting from each.
The impact of supply-side economics of the Reagan administration on family support services, food-related programs, and housing was that it
Scanzoni points out that there is a relationship between progressives and the functionalist perspective.
"Supply-side economics" in terms of various kinds of family support has been found to hurt the poor more than those in a better position economically.
The text distinguishes between family policy research and family policy __________, which takes one side or position on an issue and works actively to process or achieve that position.
Differentiate between what Scanzoni labels conventionals and progressives. How does each impact policy decisions?
Welfare, AFDC, and Social Security all support families in need, but stigma is less for Social Security recipients because they are defined as deserving of support while the others are undeserving.
Fox states that the social function of public scrutiny should include
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