A Level Sociology OCR Practice Exam

Which of the following is a characteristic of the "families of choice" concept?

1. It excludes non-traditional family units.

2. It is exclusive to upper-middle-class families.

3. It includes diverse arrangements, such as among LGBTQ+ communities.

4. It promotes historical family structures.

The correct answer is: It includes diverse arrangements, such as among LGBTQ+ communities.

The concept of "families of choice" is characterized by inclusivity and the recognition of diverse arrangements that are formed based on personal relationships rather than traditional notions of family. This is especially evident in LGBTQ+ communities, where individuals often create supportive and loving environments that do not necessarily conform to conventional family structures. By acknowledging and accepting various forms of family beyond biological connections, the concept emphasizes the importance of emotional bonds and personal connections in defining family. The other options do not accurately reflect this concept. For instance, excluding non-traditional family units contradicts the essence of families of choice, which embraces a variety of family forms. Similarly, limiting this concept to upper-middle-class families overlooks the broader spectrum of family configurations that exist across different socioeconomic statuses. Lastly, promoting historical family structures would undermine the core idea of families of choice, which is rooted in contemporary understandings of kinship that prioritize personal choice and diverse living arrangements.