SOCIOL 3CC3 Study Guide - Final Guide: Developmental Psychology, Concerted Cultivation, Married People
Document Summary
Families are formed in many different ways. In most western societies, there is a social expectation that emotional and sexual intimacy between a couple and their commitment to caring for each other is a central aspect of new family formation. The word intimate is used to describe close emotional relationships such as those between friends or siblings as well as sexual relationships that may or may not include emotional closeness. Social norms of commitment such as marriage, are one way in which intimate relations are legitimated in society. Plastic sexuality- sexual activity can be separated from reproduction. Socio-cultural constructions of romantic love change over time and across cultures. Qualitative studies confirm the significance of equality for those in intimate same sex relationships, particularly as opposed to institutionalized (marriage) heterosexual relationships. North america has had a dating culture since the early 20th century.
