Debate

Each Learning Team chooses one of the scenarios below and follows the instructions to conduct a debate. Refer to Conducting a Debate on the student website.

Option 1: Debate on Effect of the Environment on Families
Debate the effect of the environment on families and its effect on family function versus dysfunction. The debate must focus on the physical setting of the home, neighborhood, and community, as well as effects of the support system and types of relationships with various systems in the community. Also address associations and transactions of the family with the neighborhood from the affirmative and negative perspectives.

Option 2: Debate on Teaching of Values
Debate the question, “Must a set of values be prescribed by the state or federal government and taught in schools or must the teaching of values be the responsibility of the families?” The debate must include major value orientations, family values, variables affecting family value systems, value conflicts, and value clarification in presenting affirmative and negative viewpoints.

Option 3: Debate on Family Power and Authority Influences
Define concepts and debate between family power bases in reference to gender, cultural orientation, age, family hierarchy, educational levels, and socioeconomic status. How do you see healthy families situated in the family power continuum? Do any of these factors make a difference?