466-418 CDS 4D: Family Studies: Parenting

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Objectives:

On completion of this subject, students should be able to:

• demonstrate an understanding of multiple viewpoints, ideologies and perceptions of the functions and rights of parents;

• show familiarity with general implications of law and policy for children and families;

• examine and analyse the influences that operate within and upon families, specifically on the parent-child dyad;

• evaluate the evidence about the impact of different parenting styles on developing children;

• evaluate research assumptions and methods used in the study of parent-child relationships; and

• demonstrate knowledge of the research evidence on the outcomes of different strategies used by professionals in working with parents.

Content:

A critical examination of theoretical and empirical aspects of the psychological, educational and sociological literature relevant to parenting as it influences child development. This will include a study of the social constructions and social contexts of parenting, particularly as they arise from ecological theory. The subject will critically analyse the adequacy of research methods used to investigate family functioning. The subject will also examine the implications of parenting under social circumstances such as poverty, inadequate social support and educational provision and abuse.

Assessment: