Autonomy and Dependence in the Family: Turkey and Sweden in Critical Perspective

Critically analyzing the concept of the nuclear family the contribution of this book to family sociology is to point at the great variety of patterns "hidden" behind this one concept. The increasingly large space rendered to negotiation between the different members of the family in a modern setting [...]
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Critically analyzing the concept of the nuclear family the contribution of this book to family sociology is to point at the great variety of patterns "hidden" behind this one concept. The increasingly large space rendered to negotiation between the different members of the family in a modern setting has increased the range of diversity and unpredictability of the individual outcomes of each family relationship, or "project." For example, economic independence does not automatically weaken family norms, but may in combination with emotional interdependence preserve the importance given to family relationships (Turkey). Or, individual autonomy within the family may give opportunity to high self-realization, but it may as well lead to increased vulnerability and dependency in relation to peer-groups and other groups outside of the family (Sweden). Or, equality between the spouses may in combination with active interest lead to family relationships with a strong "inner core," but equality is no guarantee for such personal commitment, and a family, where the spouses are on an equal footing, may as well end up in a situation where the inner core of the family is weak or even absent.