A level sociology students should be looking to using contemporary examples and case studies to illustrate points and evaluate theories whenever possible. In the exams, the use of contemporary evidence is something examiners look for and reward.
Below are a few examples of some recent events in the news which are relevant to the sociology of families and households. You’ll need to read the items for more depth on how to apply them.
- Changes to the goods we purchase – illustrates the rise of the single person household and decline of family households.
- Greta Thunberg’s speech and the wider ‘school strikes’ agains the environment – can be used as evidence against ‘toxic childhood’ – examples of kids actually doing something active!
- Hungary’s tax break for breeders – a new social policy that gives economic incentives for Hungarians who have several children!
- Screen time and children’s well being – evidence of the effects of screens on children – relevant to toxic childhood.
- Sociological perspectives on ‘renting a womb’ – relevant to all sorts of Feminisms!
All of the above took place in either 2019 or 2018!