1. How has the structure of the family changed in the United States since 1900? 

2. What about marriage makes it functionally important? Despite its importance, what are some problems that arise in marriage and the families formed through marriage? 

3. According to structural-functionalists, why are families so important to society? 

4. What criticisms do conflict and feminist theorists have of structural-functional theories of the family? In what ways are these criticisms related to ideas about social stratification? 

5. What forms can intimate relationships take? Do you think that some forms of relationships are valued more highly than others in the United States? Do you think these values will change in the future? Why or why not? 

6. Recent studies show that one out of every six relationships is started on an Internet dating site. In what ways are these dating sites reflective of the changes in the marriage market in the United States? How could one use exchange theories to explain the use of Internet dating sites to find partners? 

7. What are the causes and consequences of divorce? What are the benefits and disadvantages of divorce? 

8. What are some general conclusions sociologists have formed about domestic violence? Is there still debate concerning such violence? What are some other common problems that arise within families? 

9. Many sociologists see a close relationship between family structure and poverty. What is this relationship? What role does gender play? What are some contrasting viewpoints?

10. In what ways has globalization affected the family?