Deck 18: C: Families

Question 1

Identify and briefly discuss at least four factors that are related to the high divorce rate in Canada.

Answer 1

The high divorce rate in Canada can be attributed to a variety of factors, each contributing in its own way to the dissolution of marriages. Here are four significant factors:

1. Societal Acceptance of Divorce: Over the years, the stigma associated with divorce has diminished significantly in Canada. As society becomes more accepting of divorce, individuals may feel less pressure to remain in unhappy or unfulfilling marriages. This shift in societal norms can lead to an increased willingness to end a marriage that is not working, rather than staying together for the sake of appearances or tradition.

2. Changes in Women's Status: Women have gained greater financial independence and social autonomy over the past few decades. With more women in the workforce and having access to their own income and resources, they are less dependent on their spouses for financial support. This economic empowerment allows women to leave marriages that they might have been forced to stay in due to financial constraints in the past.

3. Legal Ease of Divorce: The legal process for obtaining a divorce in Canada has become more streamlined and less cumbersome over time. With the introduction of the no-fault divorce under the Divorce Act in 1986, couples no longer need to prove wrongdoing by one party to dissolve their marriage. This simplification of the divorce process has made it easier for couples to legally end their marriage without prolonged legal battles.

4. Changing Family Dynamics and Expectations: Modern couples often have different expectations for marriage than those of previous generations. There is a greater emphasis on personal fulfillment, happiness, and partnership equality. When these expectations are not met, couples may be more likely to consider divorce as a viable option. Additionally, the role of marriage in society has evolved, and with the rise of cohabitation and other forms of partnership, marriage is no longer seen as the only legitimate form of long-term relationship.

These factors, among others, contribute to the high divorce rate in Canada by influencing individual decisions and shaping the societal context within which marriages begin and end.

Question 2

Exogamy means that parents of similar social position pass on their standing to their children

Answer 2

False

Question 3

In traditional societies,parents may arrange the marriages of their very young children.

Answer 3

True

Question 4

In today's high-income nations,children are:

A)an economic asset.
B)an economic liability.
C)able to earn more than what parents spend to raise them.
D)leaving home to go to work earlier in life than ever before.

Question 5

Almost all adults who abuse children typically have what in common?

A)They are middle class.
B)They are women.
C)They were abused themselves as children.
D)They were married at a very young age.

Question 6

Which of the following are counted among the functions of the family?

A)socialization of the young
B)regulation of sexual activity
C)social placement
D)All of the above are correct.

Question 7

A system of marriage that unites two partners is called:

A)polygyny.
B)polygamy.
C)polyandry.
D)monogamy.

Question 8

The most difficult transition in married life is typically:

A)the birth of a first child.
B)the death of a spouse.
C)the last child leaving home.
D)retirement.

Question 9

The family is a social institution that is found in:

A)most but not all societies.
B)about half of human societies in the world today.
C)only high-income nations
D)every society.

Question 10

Regardless of race,families headed by single women are:

A)at high risk for poverty.
B)much larger than other family types.
C)much smaller than other family types.
D)likely to experience greater upward social mobility.