Everyday Sociology Blog

To Go or Not to Go: Why Student Choice Matters in the Class Attendance Debate

By Monica Radu

Does attendance really matter?

It’s a question I ask myself a lot, especially on days when it feels like I’m lecturing to an empty classroom.

The topic of optional class attendance at colleges and universities often sparks heated debates. At its heart, this isn’t just about policies, it’s about agency, the ability of students to make meaningful choices about their education. In higher education, agency shapes how students engage with their learning environments, whether in a lecture hall, a small classroom, or a virtual meeting space.

The Balancing Act: Why “Showing Up” For Kids Matters, But so does Showing up for Work

By Monica Radu

If you've spent any time on TikTok lately, you've probably come across the "showing up" trend. It’s a feel-good trend where parents proudly showcase how they try to be present for their kids, whether it's for school events, games, or random day-to-day moments that mean the world to children. The message is heartwarming: being there matters, and kids notice when parents show up. I also know that research consistently suggests that parental involvement is important. But as a working mom, I can't help but feel a little tug of anxiety every time I see those videos.

The pressure to be physically present for every milestone or school event ties into the larger societal expectation that good parents—especially mothers—are always available. This isn't a new idea, but social media has amplified it, making it harder for working moms to ignore. These pressures align with the concept of intensive mothering, which demands that mothers devote immense time, energy, and emotional labor to their children, often at the expense of their own needs or professional aspirations. Whether it’s a holiday party or a preschool graduation, there’s an unspoken (and sometimes spoken) expectation that we’ll be there. And while these moments are important, they often come at a cost.

Baby Bumps and Big Reveals: Exploring the Gender Reveal

By Monica Radu

Gaining popularity during the baby boom, baby showers have been a hallmark of family celebrations for decades. These rituals are often filled with pastel decorations, gift-giving, and games that revolve around the joy of welcoming a new baby. Traditionally, these events were almost exclusively hosted by women and attended by female family members and friends, reinforcing long-standing gender norms around motherhood. The focus was on preparing the expectant mother for her new role and ensuring that she was equipped with the essentials for raising her newborn.

According to a January 2023 survey of 1,000 U.S. adults, baby showers rank as the sixth most popular social event, with 65% of Americans reporting that they have attended a baby shower at some point in their lives. In the past year, 22% of respondents reported going to a baby shower. The survey also highlighted a significant gender difference, with 80% of women having attended a baby shower compared to just 50% of men.

Crowdfunding for Companions: Exploring the Social Dynamics of Pet Healthcare Assistance

By Monica Radu

Sociologists are intrigued by the relationships individuals form with their pets. Beyond mere companionship, pets often serve as sources of emotional support, providing solace and a sense of connection in people's lives. Pet ownership can positively impact mental and physical health, indicating a significant intersection between pets and well-being. Investigating these relationships offers valuable insights into the complexities of human socialization and emotional fulfillment outside of conventional human interactions.

Pets are frequently considered integral members of the family, prompting sociologists to explore the dynamics of caregiving roles and the construction of familial identity within households. Findings from Pew Research suggest that 51% of pet owners reported that their pets were as much a part of their family as a human member.