HUMS 1561: Introduction to the Family in Human Service Practice
Students examine multiple family structures in Canadian society providing the groundwork for beginning practice with families in human service work. Personal values and perceptions related to traditional and non-traditional family types are explored. Topics include the current and historical social, political, cultural, and economic influences on today’s families, family of origin and intergenerational trauma issues, family systems theory, and family communication patterns.
Learning outcomes
- Identify traditional and non-traditional understanding of family.
- Reflect on how family life influences development of self and impacts human service practice.
- Describe the characteristics of functional or nurturing families as well as the characteristics of dysfunctional or troubled families.
- Explain the diversity of the Canadian family and the pressures this institution endures.
- Examine the social issues that currently affect and define marriage and family relationships in Canada.
- Summarize concepts of various family theories.
Course topics
- Module 1: Thinking about Family
- Module 2: The Family—Definitions and Theories
- Module 3: The Family—History, Culture, and Canadian Families
- Module 4: Couple Relationships
- Module 5: Children in Families and Parenting Roles
- Module 6: Middle Years and Family Stories
- Module 7: Dimensions and Issues of Aging
- Module 8: Changes in the Family—The Divorce Experience and Remarriage
- Module 9: Changes in the Family—The Lone-Parent Family and the Impact of Work on Family Life
- Module 10: Social Problems in the Family—The Beleaguered Family
- Module 11: Social Problems in the Family—Family Violence
- Module 12: Social Problems in the Family—Poverty Impacts and Future of Canadian Families
Required text and materials
The following materials are required for this course:
- Ward, M., & Bélanger, M. (2018). The family dynamic: Canadian perspectives. (7th
ed.). Toronto, ON: Nelson Education Ltd.
Type: Textbook ISBN: 978-0-17-670000-3
Assessments
To successfully complete this course, students must achieve a passing grade of 50% or higher on the overall course, and 50% or higher on the Final mandatory Project.
| Quiz 1 | 10% |
| Quiz 2 | 10% |
| Quiz 3 | 10% |
| Quiz 4 | 10% |
| Assignment 1: My Family Story | 15% |
| Assignment 2: My Family Story and Human Service Practice | 20% |
| Final Project: Working with Changes in the Family (mandatory) | 25% |
| Total | 100% |
Open Learning Faculty Member Information
An Open Learning Faculty Member is available to assist students. Students will receive the necessary contact information at the start of the course.
