Select one of the racial/ethnic groups discussed in the chapter and briefly summarize their story/history in the United States. How are they now?
• Why do sociologists find it important to differentiate between sex and gender? What importance does the differentiation have in modern society? Do you agree with me that many of societal problems can be solved if we just agree with our class definitions of sex and gender?
• How is children’s play influenced by gender roles? Think back to your childhood. How “gendered” were the toys and activities available to you? Do you remember gender expectations being conveyed through the approval or disapproval of your playtime choices?
• Identify three examples of how U.S. society is heteronormative. What does this mean for the LGBT community?
• Explain the different variations of the nuclear family and the trends that occur in each. Do you think the family is somehow in danger because of these variations and trends?
• What kind of long-term benefits do you see in choosing to marry? Is marriage in the top 3 of your life goals?
• What makes the divorce rate so challenging? What do you think is biggest factor in deciding to get a divorce? When a couple with children chooses to divorce, is this better or worse for the kids? Or should the couple stay together “for the kids”?
