Sociology of the Life Course

Catalog description

This course introduces students to theories, methods and research based on the life course paradigm. A life course perspective focuses on intersections of individual lives, historical context, social change and social structures including diverse family systems. Based on this framework students will look at how life trajectories are influenced by those systems in the broader social structure and historical context. Students will also look at how prior life stages can positively or negatively influence later life outcomes of individuals. Students will have an opportunity to apply the life course perspective to discuss research and to examine how life changes (marriage, divorce, job, childbirth, death, etc.) are influenced by social factors and contexts.