A Level Sociology OCR Practice Exam

What did feminist scholars of color critique in family studies?

1. The focus on rural families

2. The focus on white, middle-class nuclear families

3. The exclusion of lower-class families

4. The emphasis on extended families

The correct answer is: The focus on white, middle-class nuclear families

Feminist scholars of color critiqued family studies for primarily centering on white, middle-class nuclear families. This perspective often overlooked the diverse experiences and dynamics of families from different racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds. By focusing on a narrow definition of the family, traditional family studies failed to account for the complexities and variations in family structures, roles, and practices that exist across different cultures. In highlighting this critique, feminist scholars of color sought to broaden the understanding of family life to include the experiences of marginalized communities, particularly those affected by systemic inequalities. They brought attention to how race and class intersect and shape family experiences, while also challenging the dominant narratives that prioritize certain family structures over others. This critique has led to a more inclusive approach in family studies, prompting researchers to consider a wider array of family forms and the impact of social factors on family dynamics.