Family in Crisis? - Crossing Borders, Crossing Narratives

Families are essential to our democracies, and this book explores how cultural texts reflect and construct family discourses around topics such as fatherhood, motherhood, parentage, reproductive decisions, adoption, marriage, divorce, poverty, and welfare.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 250 pages
Publication date: 03 December 2021
Publisher: Transcript Verlag

Families, as the fundamental building blocks of society, hold a pivotal role in our democratic systems. This book brings together a diverse array of scholars from various fields, including cultural, gender, media studies, law, sociology, and history, to explore the intricate dynamics of modern families. These scholars delve into the ways in which these diverse families transcend geographical boundaries and engage with cultural texts, such as films, TV series, novels, short stories, and magazines, from Europe (Germany, Italy, Spain) and the United States (de-constructing, participating in, and mirroring family discourses).

The central theme of this book revolves around the examination of key topics related to family life, including fatherhoods, motherhoods, and parentage, reproductive decisions, adoption, marriage, divorce, poverty, welfare, and the rhetoric surrounding the nuclear family. By examining these diverse aspects, the book seeks to shed light on the complex interplay between families, culture, and society, challenging traditional notions and promoting a more inclusive understanding of family dynamics.

Through their insightful contributions, the scholars in this book provide a comprehensive analysis of the challenges and opportunities faced by modern families. They explore the ways in which families navigate the complexities of globalization, cultural diversity, and social change, while also addressing the historical and societal factors that have shaped family structures and relationships. The book offers valuable insights into the ways in which families can thrive in the face of adversity, fostering resilience, adaptability, and compassion.

Moreover, it raises important questions about the role of cultural texts in shaping family discourses and the impact of these narratives on individuals and society as a whole. By examining the ways in which cultural texts construct, perpetuate, and challenge prevailing notions of family, the book contributes to the ongoing debate about the evolving nature of family life and the significance of cultural diversity in shaping our understanding of family.

In conclusion, this book is a valuable resource for scholars, policymakers, and individuals interested in understanding the complex dynamics of modern families. It offers a comprehensive examination of the ways in which families transcend borders, engage with cultural texts, and navigate the challenges and opportunities of contemporary life. By promoting a deeper understanding of family life, this book contributes to the development of more inclusive and equitable societies.

Weight: 344g
Dimension: 147 x 225 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783837650617