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Actualising the "democratic family"? Swedish policy rhetoric versus family practices
Ahlberg, J. Roman, C. Duncan, Simon
Ahlberg, J.
Roman, C.
Duncan, Simon
Publication Date
2008-02-26
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© 2008 OUP. Reproduced in accordance with the publisher's self-archiving policy.
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openAccess
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Abstract
In this paper we examine empirically a key element of individualisation theory - the democratic family. We do so using the 'acid test' of family policy, and family practice, in Sweden. First we review the progress of family policy in Sweden since the 1960s, which has expressly promoted an agenda of gender equality and democracy in families, with individual autonomy for both adults and children as one key element. We then turn to family practice, looking particularly at negotiation and adult equality, lifelong parenting after separation, and children's autonomy. While Swedish policy makers and shapers seem to have developed the idea of the democratic family long before the sociologist Anthony Giddens, the results in practice have been more ambivalent. While there has been change, there is more adaptation to pre-existing gender and generational norms.
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Citation
Ahlberg J, Roman C and Duncan S (2008) Social Politics: International Studies in Gender, State & Society. 15(1): 79-100.
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Article