EAD406 - Dynamics of the Family

Subject Title
Dynamics of the Family

Subject Description
This subject will give students the opportunity to explore several diverse theories of family dynamics. Students will gain skills in identifying the cultural and historical lens of each theory, along with the inherent assumptions of family trends. A sound knowledge of family research and theory application will give students some of the tools necessary to come closer to understanding families and to recognize their role in positive change where needed in family life.

Credit Status
EAD 406 is a required subject in the Bachelor of Child Development.

Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this subject the student will be able to:



1.Critically analyze diverse and varied theoretical perspectives describing families.

2. Explain the underlying basic assumptions, concepts and propositions of family theories.

3. Identify the research history of family theories.

4. Debate the definition of family.

5. Describe how families can be seen from a broad macro perspective as social institutions that function to maintain society.

6. Discuss the importance of the role of the individual and interpersonal relationships within the family.

7. Select the most useful family theory to inform further investigation of questions, situations and needed outcomes for families.

8. Chose from a variety of diverse family theories in order to assess, analyze and understand a family better.

9. Reflect on a range of complex family issues including stress, loss and conflict.

10. Utilize family theories to choose appropriate intervention techniques that will effectively help families.

11. Identify the struggles, issues, challenges and potentials of diverse and varied families.

12. Assess societal and family contributions to home and community violence.

13. Explain the process of resiliency that allows families to balance demands and thrive.

14. Utilize family history narrative to articulate and define individual roles within the family.

Academic Integrity
Seneca upholds a learning community that values academic integrity, honesty, fairness, trust, respect, responsibility and courage. These values enhance Seneca's commitment to deliver high-quality education and teaching excellence, while supporting a positive learning environment. Ensure that you are aware of Seneca's Academic Integrity Policy which can be found at: http://www.senecapolytechnic.ca/about/policies/academic-integrity-policy.html Review section 2 of the policy for details regarding approaches to supporting integrity. Section 2.3 and Appendix B of the policy describe various sanctions that can be applied, if there is suspected academic misconduct (e.g., contract cheating, cheating, falsification, impersonation or plagiarism).

Please visit the Academic Integrity website http://open2.senecac.on.ca/sites/academic-integrity/for-students to understand and learn more about how to prepare and submit work so that it supports academic integrity, and to avoid academic misconduct.

Discrimination/Harassment
All students and employees have the right to study and work in an environment that is free from discrimination and/or harassment. Language or activities that defeat this objective violate the College Policy on Discrimination/Harassment and shall not be tolerated. Information and assistance are available from the Student Conduct Office at student.conduct@senecapolytechnic.ca.

Accommodation for Students with Disabilities
The College will provide reasonable accommodation to students with disabilities in order to promote academic success. If you require accommodation, contact the Counselling and Accessibility Services Office at ext. 22900 to initiate the process for documenting, assessing and implementing your individual accommodation needs.

Camera Use and Recordings - Synchronous (Live) Classes
Synchronous (live) classes may be delivered in person, in a Flexible Learning space, or online through a Seneca web conferencing platform such as MS Teams or Zoom. Flexible Learning spaces are equipped with cameras, microphones, monitors and speakers that capture and stream instructor and student interactions, providing an in-person experience for students choosing to study online.

Students joining a live class online may be required to have a working camera in order to participate, or for certain activities (e.g. group work, assessments), and high-speed broadband access (e.g. Cable, DSL) is highly recommended. In the event students encounter circumstances that impact their ability to join the platform with their camera on, they should reach out to the professor to discuss. Live classes may be recorded and made available to students to support access to course content and promote student learning and success.

By attending live classes, students are consenting to the collection and use of their personal information for the purposes of administering the class and associated coursework. To learn more about Seneca's privacy practices, visit Privacy Notice.