Course Description:

This course will define what is meant by family crisis, identify some of the major theoretical frameworks for studying families in crisis, consider major lifestyle transitions, and explore the major catastrophic crises families face.  It will also examine resources and strengths that enable families to deal with crisis more adequately.

McKenry, P.C. & Price, S.J. (2nd Ed.) (2000). Families and change: Coping with stressful events. London: Sage.

1. Define what is meant by family crisis.
2. Identify and explain the major theoretical frameworks for studying families in crisis and be able to integrate theory and practice.
3. Identify the major life-cycle transitions of families and be able to explain their potential for crisis.
4. Explain what is meant by situational stressors, the potential crises involved in this area, and the issues to be addressed at the personal and social levels for more effective functioning.
5. Develop an understanding of the major catastrophic crises families face and examine current research that addresses these crises.
6. Identify effective methods employed by professionals and clinicians to help families cope with crisis.
7. Examine the resources and strengths that enable some families to weather crises better than other families.
8. Develop an understanding of the issues and implications of family crisis in own and other’s lives.

1. Autobiographical Sketch of Personal or Family Crisis (100 points)
2. Written examinations: Midterm and Final 100 points/ea (Total  200 points)
3. Options Assignments: Students are limited to options from the list.  (Total 100 points)
4. Graduate Students ONLY: Book review (Total 50 points)

General Information:

1. All work is due at the beginning of the class period on the dates assigned.  No late papers will be accepted.
2. Students are advised to keep copies of work submitted and retain returned assisgnments until course grades have been submitted.
3. The class is scheduled to begin on the hour and to end in 50 minutes.  This does not mean that you should start packing your books up before class is over.  Please do not signal the time to me by zipping backpacks, etc.
4. Disabilities Services: If you have a documented disability and wish to discuss accommodations, please contact the Office of Disability Services at 581-6583.