A Level Sociology OCR Practice Exam

What historical patterns persist in contemporary family structures?

1. Global migration trends

2. Racial and class disparities

3. Technological advancements

4. Water resource management

The correct answer is: Racial and class disparities

Racial and class disparities have a deep historical context that significantly influences contemporary family structures. Historically, societies have been marked by various forms of inequality, including those based on race and social class. These disparities shape the experiences and opportunities of families, impacting aspects such as access to education, economic resources, and social support. Contemporary family structures continue to reflect these differences, as families from various racial and socioeconomic backgrounds experience distinct challenges and opportunities. For example, systemic inequalities may lead to variations in household composition, economic stability, and the availability of resources for child-rearing. Additionally, minority and low-income families might navigate different cultural expectations and pressures, often tracing back to historical systemic disadvantages. While the other options provide relevant sociological insights, they do not directly relate to the persistent historical patterns influencing family structures. Global migration trends focus more on the movement of people rather than the internal dynamics of families. Technological advancements alter communication and family interaction but do not stem from historical patterns of inequality. Water resource management does not directly connect to family structures in a historical context, making it less relevant to this question. Thus, understanding racial and class disparities provides critical insight into how family structures have evolved and how historical inequalities continue to shape them.