18 to Life

We watched an episode of "18 to Life" in class on January 23rd.  We were asked which theoretical framework best worked with this specific episode.  My personal opinion is that it fits into the Ecological Framework.  Families have to move with the changes that happen within society and take them with a grain of salt.  In this episode it was showing a young married couple, who not only were struggling to make ends meet but were selling their 'prized possessions' to get each other an anniversary gift.  On top of this expense that were both are clearly stressed about, they aren't 'legally' married until they pay a fee for their marriage licence/certificate.
It is amazing how with times the 'norm' changes so much.  For instance - 50 years ago, it was very common for young adults to get married right away (sometimes even as teenagers) but now - society expects you to wait, get an education and have a good career before you 'settle down' with marriage and the thought of having a family.

I like how their parents are involved in the show a lot - that is a clear comparison between the generational decisions/responsibilities and even the norms.  They are very supportive of their children's marriage and know they want to make it on their own - but they try to help as much as they can - even if slightly discretly!