Foreword to the Special Issue: Theoretical and Methodological Discussions

Abstract

This special issue concerns the reconciliation between family and work life in several industries in Japan. This paper is the foreword to this issue. First, we consider this theme from theoretical and methodological perspectives. There are general family theories, but this special issue is based on structure and agency as part of contemporary social theory. The articles that follow are based on specific areas in Japan. Broadly, these studies are case studies in methodology. We would like to share recent methodological discussions on case studies. Finally, we point out the impact of this issue on future studies in family sociological research.