2024 Volume 28 Issue 2

2024 Volume 28 Issue 2 – Special Issue

Family Science Review

Special Issue: Family Science Careers Through the Eyes of Theory

Introduction: Family Science Careers Through the Eyes of Theory

DOI: 10.26536/GMJK4953

Author

  • Raeann R. Hamon, Department of Human Development and Family Science, Messiah University
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Family Science and Careers in Child Life

Applying Family Theories to the Field of Child Life

DOI: 10.26536/YTOF2161

Authors

  • Amanda C. Ginter, Department of Family Studies and Community Development, Towson University
  • Diane H. Kegan, Department of Family Studies and Community Development, Towson University
  • Lisa A. Martinelli Beasley, Department of Family Studies and Community Development, Towson University
  • Danna Ramirez Gomez, Department of Family Studies and Community Development, Towson University
  • Virginia Gourley, Department of Family Studies and Community Development, Towson University
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Child Life in Practice: Applying Theories in the Emergency Department and on a Pediatric Unit

DOI: 10.26536/GFGC1591

Authors

  • Karin Rourke, Department of Family and Consumer Sciences, Western Michigan University
  • Jou-Chen Chen, Department of Family and Consumer Sciences, Western Michigan University
  • Karen Blaisure, Department of Family and Consumer Sciences, Western Michigan University
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Child Life through the Lens of Family Stress Theory and Family Systems Theory

DOI: 10.26536/BANJ5111

Authors

  • Annie N. Insley, Child Life, Prisma Health Children's Hospital - Midlands
  • Erika N. Sheaffer, Child Life, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia
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Family Science and Careers in Higher Education

Approaching Academic Advising of Undergraduate Students in HDFS Through the Lenses of Identity Development Theories

DOI: 10.26536/BBCX1212

Author

  • Erin F. Boyd-Soisson, Department of Human Development and Family Science, Messiah University
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Teaching as Family Life Educators in Collegiate Settings: The Application of Family Science Theories from Systemic and Chronological Perspectives

DOI: 10.26536/ESNQ5639

Author

  • Jou-Chen Chen, Department of Family and Consumer Sciences, Western Michigan University
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A Bioecological Approach to Family and Consumer Science Teacher Preparation

DOI: 10.26536/NZMD3223

Author

  • Nicole A. Graves, School of Education, Counseling, & Human Development, South Dakota State University
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The Role of Department Chair through the Lenses of Family Systems Theory and Family Strengths Perspective

DOI: 10.26536/EBNF5499

Author

  • Raeann R. Hamon, Department of Human Development and Family Science, Messiah University
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Family Science and Careers in Intervention and Family Services

Utilizing Family Theories to Maximize Early Intervention Work: An Examination and Application of Family Systems Theory and Bioecological Theory

DOI: 10.26536/PNSI3901

Authors

  • J. Claire Cook, Department of Human Sciences, Middle Tennessee State University
  • Rebecca Oldham, Department of Human Sciences, Middle Tennessee State University
  • Connie Casha, Early Learning Programs, Middle Tennessee State University
  • Jenny Franklin, Learning Matters, Nashville, Tennessee
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Using Relational Feminism as an Approach to Practice in Working with Families in Special Education

DOI: 10.26536/ORHS4776

Authors

  • Jennifer P. Cottle, Human Development, Family Studies, & Counseling Department, Texas Woman’s University
  • Catherine Dutton, Human Development, Family Studies, & Counseling Department, Texas Woman’s University
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Applying Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Systems Model in Family Court

DOI: 10.26536/LHGY3086

Author

  • Lawrence G. Shelton, Human Development and Family Science Program, University of Vermont
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2024 Volume 28 Issue 2, Family Science Review, Special Issue
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Applying Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Systems Model in Family Court

DOI: 10.26536/LHGY3086

  • Lawrence G. Shelton, Human Development and Family Science Program, University of Vermont
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Abstract

The work of Urie Bronfenbrenner is a key framework in Family Science, yet there are many areas where it has seldom been applied, including in the processes experienced by divorcing families in Family Court. Acknowledging the paucity of scholarship applying ecological systems theory to these topics, the paper offers instructive interpretations of personal practice experience in these roles. Described are two of several career roles in Family Court available to professionals trained in family science and how Bronfenbrenner’s ecological systems model of development is applicable in that work. Careers described are providing training and consultation for attorneys and judges and conducting custody evaluations. Bronfenbrenner’s model affords consistent and useful principles for both roles. The processes of separation and divorce are described as a series of ecological transitions that affect not only family structure, but the relationships that make up the family system, as well as family members’ participation in other ecosystems. Changes in relationships and ecosystems affect development by requiring individuals to adapt. Family Court itself is an ecosystem with roles, activities and macrosystem beliefs that are often stressful for family members and that may increase risks to family relationships and development. Discussion considers areas where Family Scientists can use Bronfenbrenner’s model to contribute to improved research and practice for divorcing families.

2024 Volume 28 Issue 2, Family Science Review, Special Issue, , , , ,
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Using Relational Feminism as an Approach to Practice in Working with Families in Special Education

DOI: 10.26536/ORHS4776

  • Jennifer P. Cottle, Human Development, Family Studies, & Counseling Department, Texas Woman’s University
  • Catherine Dutton, Human Development, Family Studies, & Counseling Department, Texas Woman’s University
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Abstract

Families of children with disabilities have unique relational needs that may be addressed by practitioners in the field of family science. In this article, we discuss how relational feminism was used as an approach to working with families in a rural Special Education program to facilitate success for very young students with neurodevelopmental disorders and non-specified disabilities. This article provides a brief history of families’ roles in Special Education advocacy, along with the tenets of relational feminism. We discuss ways that relational feminism was used to create connections within the professional community, and with marginalized families. We also discuss the strengths and limitations of using relational feminism to promote connection and voice for families of marginalized and vulnerable individuals in the public education context.

2024 Volume 28 Issue 2, Family Science Review, Special Issue, , , ,
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Teaching as Family Life Educators in Collegiate Settings: The Application of Family Science Theories from Systemic and Chronological Perspectives

DOI: 10.26536/ESNQ5639

  • Jou-Chen Chen, Department of Family and Consumer Sciences, Western Michigan University
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Abstract

Family Science is an exciting field which offers a multitude of career pathways, including Family Life Educator (FLE) and the Certified Family Life Educator (CFLE) credential. In this article, I will discuss how, as a Family Life Educator in a university setting, I employ Bronfenbrenner's bioecological model of human development (Bronfenbrenner & Morris, 2006), Elder's (1998) life course perspective, and the concept of intersectionality in teaching family science courses. The article will conclude with discussions of the strengths, limitations, and lessons learned.

2024 Volume 28 Issue 2, Family Science Review, Special Issue, , , ,
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Utilizing Family Theories to Maximize Early Intervention Work: An Examination and Application of Family Systems Theory and Bioecological Theory

DOI: 10.26536/PNSI3901

  • J. Claire Cook, Department of Human Sciences, Middle Tennessee State University
  • Rebecca Oldham, Department of Human Sciences, Middle Tennessee State University
  • Connie Casha, Early Learning Programs, Middle Tennessee State University
  • Jenny Franklin, Learning Matters, Nashville, Tennessee
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Abstract

The field of early intervention is rapidly expanding. Individuals trained in Human Development and Family Science programs are uniquely situated for work in this setting, due to their diverse understanding of human development, from birth through death, and the role of the family system in influencing development. More specifically, individuals from this academic discipline can employ a family systems theory and bioecological theory perspectives to inform their intervention work. The unique insight these theories provide to enhance early intervention work will be discussed and then applied using an actual case study. Though family systems theory and bioecological theory do have limitations in this field, namely their inability to explain a behavioral change and non-linear orientation, the authors feel the benefits of both these theoretical perspectives for explaining family contexts outweigh the limitations.

2024 Volume 28 Issue 2, Family Science Review, Special Issue, , ,
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The Role of Department Chair through the Lenses of Family Systems Theory and Family Strengths Perspective

DOI: 10.26536/EBNF5499

  • Raeann R. Hamon, Department of Human Development and Family Science, Messiah University
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Abstract

As middle managers in higher education, department chairs play a critical role in the university structure while operating in an ambiguous location between faculty and senior administration. This paper will take a closer look at the role of department chair, how chairs are selected and prepared for the position, what the job entails, qualities of an effective chair, and challenges within the position. Then, after brief descriptions of family systems theory and family strengths perspective, the benefit of each as a useful lens for enacting the position of department chair will be explored. Sample applications of each will be provided.

2024 Volume 28 Issue 2, Family Science Review, Special Issue, , ,
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A Bioecological Approach to Family and Consumer Sciences Teacher Preparation

DOI: 10.26536/NZMD3223

  • Nicole A. Graves, School of Education, Counseling, and Human Development, South Dakota State University
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Abstract

Family and consumer sciences (FCS) has a rich history dating back to its origins as home economics. The profession has always been rooted in multiple branches of science including chemistry, biology, sociology, and psychology. The Family and Consumer Sciences Body of Knowledge (FCS-BOK) unveiled at the turn of the 21st century helped solidify the theoretical foundation of the profession. The theoretical approaches that anchor and guide the work of current FCS professionals are human ecosystems and life course development. This paper highlights more specifically how an FCS teacher educator utilizes Bronfenbrenner’s bioecological theory to understand the current state of FCS education and design learning experiences for future educators that instill values of theoretical application across careers in secondary classrooms.

2024 Volume 28 Issue 2, Family Science Review, Special Issue, , ,
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Approaching Academic Advising of Undergraduate Students in HDFS Through the Lenses of Identity Development Theories

DOI: 10.26536/BBCX1212

  • Erin F. Boyd-Soisson, Department of Human Development and Family Science, Messiah University
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Abstract

Many colleges and universities utilize faculty advisors for academic advising. In this model, faculty advise students in their discipline on curriculum requirements, as well as career and academic goals. Faculty often report feeling that they have had little training or support for their role as an academic advisor. Faculty advisors in the field of human development and family science (HDFS), however, are uniquely positioned for academic advising as they are trained experts in many of the known factors associated with effective advising. One area closely related to advising that HDFS faculty are highly knowledgeable about is identity development and exploration. Therefore, HDFS faculty can utilize their in-depth knowledge of Erikson’s, Marcia’s, and Arnett’s theories of development to inform their role as advisors.

2024 Volume 28 Issue 2, Family Science Review, Special Issue, , , ,
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Applying Family Theories to the Field of Child Life

DOI: 10.26536/YTOF2161

  • Amanda C. Ginter, Department of Family Studies and Community Development, Towson University
  • Diane H. Kegan, Department of Family Studies and Community Development, Towson University
  • Lisa A. Martinelli Beasley, Department of Family Studies and Community Development, Towson University
  • Danna Ramirez Gomez, Department of Family Studies and Community Development, Towson University
  • Virginia Gourley, Department of Family Studies and Community Development, Towson University
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Abstract

The following manuscript explores the application of family science theories to the field of child life. Ecological systems theory, family systems theory, and conflict theory will be presented and applied to child life. These theories explain the responsibilities and experiences of the specialist, their relationship with patients and families, and their own challenges in the work environment. The discussion section details the strengths and limitations of the selected theories, along with an explanation of why other theories were excluded from this analysis. Implications will be addressed.

2024 Volume 28 Issue 2, Family Science Review, Special Issue, , , , ,
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