Family Practices: David Morgan Sociology Perspective
(Relevant for Sociology Optional for Civil Services Examination)
Paper-1 Unit-9 Systems of kinship
Paper-2 Unit-12 Social Structure; Systems of kinship in India
David Morgan, a renowned sociologist, has contributed significantly to our understanding of family practices and their broader implications for society. In this blog, we delve deep into Morgan’s views on family practices, exploring how they shape our relationships, redefine intimacy, and impact gender roles within the family. We also examine critical perspectives that challenge his conceptualization and propose alternative approaches. Join us on this sociological journey to uncover the intricacies of family practices.
David Morgan’s Concept of Family Practices
According to David Morgan, family practices encompass the everyday actions that family members undertake with the intention of affecting one another. These practices can range from simple conversations to more complex interactions. Let’s take the example of “family talk.” Within families, much of the talk occurs with shared assumptions and references to past experiences. This type of communication reaffirms the family relationship and its significance. Essentially, family practices and family relationships engage in a complex, improvised dance, where actions speak louder than words.
Gender and Societal Dynamics
Morgan’s work also sheds light on the role of family practices in shaping gendered individuals and societies. He emphasizes the reciprocal relationship between family life and the social context of the time and place. This cross-disciplinary perspective challenges traditional notions of ‘rationality’ and ‘relatedness.’ In the UK, scholars have expanded upon Morgan’s concept of ‘family practices’ by introducing the idea of ‘displaying family.’ However, as we’ll see, not everyone agrees with this perspective.
A Critical Perspective: Roseneil’s Argument
Roseneil argues that referring to family practices as such can be limiting. She believes that this approach reproduces heteronormative models of human relationships and fails to account for the diverse ways individuals live their lives. This criticism prompts us to explore alternative viewpoints.
Beyond the Nuclear Family Model
Several scholars have attempted to move beyond the nuclear family model in their understanding of family practices. One such approach emphasizes intimacy in relationships. Lynn Jamieson’s work, for instance, highlights “disclosing intimacy” as an intimate connection of the self, distinct from physical intimacy. While this approach still overlaps with family relationships, it questions whether we should use a broader term like ‘intimate practices’ instead of the narrow ‘family practices.’
Jacqui Gabb’s research on intimacy in families demonstrates how ‘practices of intimacy’ intersect with and influence our understanding of ‘family practices.’ These practices involve making sense of the body, embodiment, and bodily interactions within families.
Personal Life Approach: Carol Smart
Carol Smart’s personal life approach to family practices extends beyond traditional boundaries. She explores a wide range of family and kinship relationships, including same-sex relationships and friendships. This approach highlights the fluidity and complexity of modern family dynamics.
Configurational Approach by Eric D. Widmer
Eric D. Widmer’s configurational approach takes a broader view of family practices. It doesn’t limit itself exclusively to family or family-type relationships but considers all chains of relationships and inter-dependencies within society. This perspective opens up new avenues for sociological exploration.
Caringscapes Approach
The caringscapes approach, advocated by scholars McKie, Gregory, and Bowlby, focuses on the gendered interface between home and work. It examines the practices mothers adopt to maintain care for their children and other family members while remaining in paid employment. Care is a fundamental set of practices, and this approach challenges the conventional association of care with the family. It highlights the gendered nature of care and its diverse settings, which can include clinics, nursery schools, or sheltered housing. The ‘caringscapes’ approach broadens our understanding of family practices within a larger societal context.
The Total Social Organisation of Labour (TSOL)
Miriam Glucksmann’s concept of ‘The Total Social Organisation of Labour’ (TSOL) offers a radical departure from traditional family practice theories. It focuses on activities that link and cross various domains such as workplaces, households, state institutions, and communities. For instance, children’s education connects home, school, state, and community, intersected by social divisions like class and gender. The TSOL operates in areas where family practices overlap with societal dynamics, such as workplace flexibility and family-friendly policies.
Challenges and Expansions
Despite some limitations, David Morgan’s conceptualization of family practices has had a profound impact on the field of sociology. His work spans a wide range of topics, from acquaintanceship and friendship to family, kinship, and gender issues. Researchers have applied his ideas to challenging circumstances, including seeking asylum, long-distance relationships, post-divorce family dynamics, and single-parent struggles during the pandemic.
Conclusion
David Morgan’s perspectives on family practices have enriched our understanding of the intricate dance that occurs within families and their broader societal context. Whether we agree with his views or explore alternative approaches, his work remains a cornerstone in the study of family dynamics in contemporary society.
As you prepare for your sociology optional UPSC examination, remember to consider the diverse viewpoints and approaches within the field. The concept of family practices is continually evolving, and your understanding of these perspectives will serve you well in the exam.
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