Andrew Cherlin

Definition

Andrew Cherlin is a prominent sociologist known for his research on marriage, family structures, and social changes in American society. His work highlights how shifting societal norms, economic factors, and cultural influences impact family dynamics, making him a key figure in understanding contemporary family life.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Cherlin argues that the rise of cohabitation reflects changing attitudes toward marriage and family life in the U.S., with more couples opting to live together before or instead of marrying.
2. He emphasizes the importance of understanding how economic conditions and social policies influence marriage rates and family structures.
3. Cherlin has coined the term 'the deinstitutionalization of marriage' to describe the process by which marriage has become less formalized and more about personal choice.
4. His research shows that while marriage rates are declining, the meaning and significance of marriage continue to evolve in contemporary society.
5. Cherlin’s work underscores the role of cultural narratives in shaping individual decisions about marriage and cohabitation, pointing out that societal expectations have shifted over time.

Review Questions

• How does Andrew Cherlin's research inform our understanding of the current trends in family structures and their implications for society?
  • Andrew Cherlin's research provides valuable insights into how modern family structures are changing due to various social, economic, and cultural factors. He illustrates that as societal norms evolve, traditional family arrangements are being redefined. This shift challenges conventional views on family dynamics, emphasizing that diverse family forms, such as cohabitation or single-parent households, are becoming increasingly accepted in society.
• In what ways does Cherlin's concept of 'deinstitutionalization of marriage' connect to the observed trends in marriage rates and age at first marriage?
  • Cherlin's concept of 'deinstitutionalization of marriage' highlights how marriage is becoming less of a societal expectation and more of a personal choice. This shift correlates with decreasing marriage rates and an increase in the age at first marriage. As individuals prioritize personal fulfillment and economic stability before committing to marriage, they tend to marry later or opt for alternative arrangements like cohabitation.
• Evaluate how Andrew Cherlin's findings on cohabitation patterns challenge traditional notions of marriage and family life in contemporary society.
  • Andrew Cherlin's findings on cohabitation reveal a significant shift in how individuals perceive relationships and commitment. By showing that many couples now view cohabitation as a valid alternative to marriage, he challenges the traditional notion that marriage is the ultimate goal for romantic relationships. This perspective encourages a broader understanding of family life, where various forms of partnerships coexist, reflecting changing values around commitment, stability, and personal choice.

Related terms

Family Structure: The composition and organization of a family unit, which can include nuclear families, extended families, single-parent families, and blended families.

Marriage Decline: The observed trend of decreasing marriage rates and changing perceptions of marriage as an institution in modern society.

Cohabitation:

An arrangement where two people live together in a long-term relationship without being legally married, often seen as an alternative to traditional marriage.