HUMS 1561 - Introduction to the Family in Human Service Practice

Course Description

Students examine multiple family structures in Canadian society providing the groundwork for beginning practice with families in human service work. Personal values and perceptions related to traditional and non-traditional family types are explored. Topics include the current and historical social, political, cultural, and economic influences on today’s families, family of origin and intergenerational trauma issues, family systems theory, and family communication patterns.

Learning outcomes

• Identify traditional and non-traditional understanding of family.
• Reflect on how family life influences development of self and impacts human service practice.
• Describe the characteristics of functional or nurturing families as well as the characteristics of dysfunctional or troubled families.
• Explain the diversity of the Canadian family and the pressures this institution endures.
• Examine the social issues that currently affect and define marriage and family relationships in Canada.
• Summarize concepts of various family theories.

Course topics

• Module 1: Thinking about Family
• Module 2: Definitions of and Theories About Families
• Module 3: Historical Perspectives on Canadian Families
• Module 4: Dates, Cohabiting, Couples, and Marriages
• Module 5: Types of Intimate Relationships and Families
• Module 6: Indigenous Families
• Module 7: 2SLGBTQ+, Parenting Challenges, and Socialization
• Module 8: Work and Family Life
• Module 9: Stress and Violence in Family Life
• Module 10: Divorce and Relationship Dissolution
• Module 11: Family Transitions and Diversity
• Module 12: The Future of Close Relationships

Required text and materials

Students are responsible for purchasing the required materials on their own:

• Tepperman, L., Colavecchia, S., & McDaniel, S. A. (2024). Close Relations: An Introduction to the Sociology of Families (7th ed.). Pearson.
  Type: E-Textbook. ISBN: 9780137625437 / 9780137625376.

Note: This item can be purchased directly from Campus eBookstore via Wolfie's Campus Store.

Assessments

To successfully complete this course, students must achieve a passing grade of 50% or higher on the overall course, and 50% or higher on the mandatory final exam. 

Exclusions

• HUMS 1560