Review of Rural Family Sociology in Japan Part 2

:View point of Continuance and Change

Abstract

　　　This article is the second review of rural family sociology in Japan, following Part 1: (1) [1900-1970s], (2) [1980s], (3) [1990-2003s] (Journal of Rural Studies, No.42, Vol.21, 2015). The purpose of this study is to clarify searches of rural family sociology, and follows these genealogy from 2004-2014. It is focusing on the viewpoint of continuance and change. It also plans to explore what are needed in Japanese rural family research today.
　　　In 2004 to 2014, rural family research was accomplished by the modern family theory, the gender theory, the network theory, the rural community, and “Mura”research, environment research, circulation, promotion of enterprise, and community activism. The studies of rural family have gradually decreased. Recently, it is becoming difficult to distinguish characteristics between rural and urban families.
　　　Through this review, the author concludes that the sociological research has been influenced by what the society requires depending on the change of the times. In sociology, research of rural society and family has greatly contributed to the fundamental theories.