This week we learned about theories that are related to the family structure and happenings. These theories aren't truths, but you can see their place in different family situations. Here's a quick run down on the theories.

• Systems Theory: The sum is greater than the whole. The family as a whole is more important than individuals in the family
• Exchange Theory: Getting your costs lower than your rewards. You're always making sure you're getting what you need out of a interaction, without giving too much
• Symbolic Interaction Theory: What happens in an interaction is a result of what the individuals brought and the interaction itself. So even if your mind is set on a path, your interactions might change your thoughts about something.
• Conflict Theory: There is always inequality in a relationship, and whoever has more resources is most likely to get what they want.

Here's some examples in my life of some of these theories. 

• Symbolic Interaction Theory: When I graduated from high school my plan was to go to BYU and then in a few years be married at age 21. A month after graduation I met my future husband and we were married less than a year later. And I couldn't be HAPPIER with the way it all turned out!
  
• Systems Theory: I grew up as the second of 9 children. There was lots of times when you had to put the needs of the family above your own. There was certain things that all family members were required to attend. These consisted of family prayers, family scripture study, family dinners and breakfasts, family councils, family reunions, siblings sport games and dance recitals, and family home evenings. There was many times when it would have been more convenient to do what I needed to do instead of participating in the family activities, but I am grateful for the times I did put my family before myself.