S01E26 - Religion and Family in a Changing Society

Religion and Family in a Changing Society by Penny Edgell investigates the evolving intersection of faith and household structures in modern America. Drawing on data from four communities in upstate New York, the author explores how religious institutions have adapted to the shift from the traditional "male-breadwinner" model to dual-earner, single-parent, and blended families. The text highlights a tension between the "standard package" of 1950s-era family ministry and the contemporary need for more inclusive, diverse religious practices. Key findings indicate that while family formation still motivates religious involvement, the impact is mediated by gender, social class, and personal interpretive schemas. Ultimately, the source provides a sociological framework for understanding how congregations maintain moral authority while navigating the complexities of a pluralistic society.Citation:Edgell, Penny. 2005. Religion and Family in a Changing Society. Princeton University Press.