This course introduces students to the fundamental concepts and general theories of sociological thought and research. Students will be introduced to the major and to careers the sociology major offers. As part of the engaged department initiative and to begin applying sociology concepts and theories to their experiences, students will complete 3 hours of participant observation of a community-based initiative, organization or cultural event outside of the classroom.

This course introduces fundamental sociological concepts, theoretical approaches, and arguments surrounding the institutions of marriage and family. Students will examine how experiences of marriage and family are affected by social, cultural, and economic structures and explore issues of marriage, intimacy, family, love, partnering, parenting, grandparenting, childrearing practices, violence, and social policy. In this process students will see how individuals’ family lives are shaped by broader social systems in ways that help us better understand our own family experiences.