The Sociology of Emotions

Emotion potentially occupies a crucial position

in general sociological theory. As we attempt to

be more precise and more empirical about sociological

concepts, we find that many of the most important

rest to a considerable extent upon emotional

processes (in Kemper, 1990, p. 27).

This brief report will examine a specific aspect of the sociology of emotions -- that of dealing with love, in which Kemper (1990) is certainly prescient in noting that elements of power and status are omnipresent.

Alexander (1995) has noted that Kemper (1990) theorized that there are relations between behavior and testosterone based on the premise that social factors determine biological events which, in turn, have social effects (a socio-bio-social theory). Such concepts

. . .
orly articulated in the courts, vary enormously and may refer to sexual dissatisfaction, an inability to live without conflict and hostility, or a recognition of divergent interests and life cycle goals. Given the egalitarian nature of American thought and life, what emerges from a review of the literature is a strong indication that divorce is becoming a more and more accepted method of ending a relationship that has, for literally whatever reason, deteriorated (Wallenstein and Blakeslee, 1990). Kemper (1990) and Game (1997) suggest that divorce may be a form of emotional "dis-positioning" in which earlier feelings of love (motivated by a desire to eliminate loneliness or seek self-affirmation from an "other") are replaced by feelings of anger, frustration and, ultimately, removal. Marital satisfaction is at the heart of the successful marriage. Arendell (1986) discussed the question of what constitutes marital satisfaction, pointing out that it incorporates sexual contentment, economic security, trust, a sense of being secure, and a belief that one is valued, respected and loved by the spouse. In addition, couples who divorce often comment that a general sense of overall dissatisfaction with their life and their marital pa
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Approximate Word count = 2692
Approximate Pages = 11 (250 words per page)

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