3.5: Functionalism

Question 1

In the 1940s and 1950s, the dominant perspective in sociology was functionalism.
Functionalists argued that there was a fit between the needs of industrial societies like the US and the UK and the institution of the nuclear family.
For example, what did the American sociologist who (what year) argue?

Answer 1

For example, the American sociologist William Goode (1963) argued that as societies went through a process of industrialisation, they tended to adopt the nuclear family pattern

Question 2

While functionalists portrayed the nuclear family in favourable terms, much more critical approaches based on Marxism and feminism began to influence the way sociologists looked at the nuclear family from when?

Answer 2

While functionalists portrayed the nuclear family in favourable terms, much more critical approaches based on Marxism and feminism began to influence the way sociologists looked at the nuclear family from the 1970s onwards

Question 3

Functionalists always ask about the what of an institution?

Answer 3

Functionalists always ask about the:
1. Purpose
2. Function
of an institution

Question 4

Functionalists always ask about the purpose and the function of an institution.
Example

Answer 4

For example:

1. What good does it do for society?
2. How does it help to maintain order and value consensus (agreement or harmony)

Question 5

Functionalists always ask about the purpose and the function of an institution.
For example, what good does it do for society and how does it help to maintain order and value consensus (agreement or harmony)?
How can institutions help prevent anomie?

Answer 5

Institutions can help prevent anomie through primary socialisation

Question 6

Functionalists always ask about the purpose and the function of an institution.
For example, what good does it do for society and how does it help to maintain order and value consensus (agreement or harmony)?
Institutions can help prevent anomie through primary socialisation.
How can institutions help to maintain order and value consensus (agreement or harmony)?

Answer 6

Institutions can help to maintain:
1. Order
2. Value consensus (agreement or harmony)
by informal social control

Question 7

Functionalists always ask about the purpose and the function of an institution.
For example, what good does it do for society and how does it help to maintain order and value consensus (agreement or harmony)?
Institutions can help prevent anomie through primary socialisation.
Institutions can help to maintain order and value consensus (agreement or harmony) by informal social control.
Functionalists are interested in the what functions of society?

Answer 7

Functionalists are interested in the positive functions of society

Question 8

Functionalists always ask about the purpose and the function of an institution.
For example, what good does it do for society and how does it help to maintain order and value consensus (agreement or harmony)?
Institutions can help prevent anomie through primary socialisation.
Institutions can help to maintain order and value consensus (agreement or harmony) by informal social control.
Functionalists are interested in the positive functions of society.
Example

Answer 8

For example, how does it contribute to a healthy society?

Question 9

Who are 2 key functionalists?

Answer 9

2 key functionalists are:

1. George Murdock
2. Talcott Parsons

Question 10

George Murdock (1949) carried out a survey of 250 societies from which he concluded that some kind of family was found in every human society.
Murdock argued that this was based on 2 opposite-sex parents and their own or adopted children - a nuclear family.
However, Murdock acknowledged that in many societies, family units included other kin, such as what?

Answer 10

Murdock acknowledged that in many societies, family units included other kin, such as:

1. Vertically extended families
2. Horizontally extended families

Question 11

George Murdock (1949) carried out a survey of 250 societies from which he concluded that some kind of family was found in every human society.
Murdock argued that this was based on 2 opposite-sex parents and their own or adopted children - a nuclear family.
However, Murdock acknowledged that in many societies, family units included other kin, such as vertically extended families, including who, and horizontally extended families?

Answer 11

Murdock acknowledged that in many societies, family units included other kin, such as:

1. Vertically extended families, including grandparents
2. Horizontally extended families

Question 12

George Murdock (1949) carried out a survey of 250 societies from which he concluded that some kind of family was found in every human society.
Murdock argued that this was based on 2 opposite-sex parents and their own or adopted children - a nuclear family.
However, Murdock acknowledged that in many societies, family units included other kin, such as vertically extended families, including grandparents, and horizontally extended families, where brothers (or less frequently sisters) did what?

Answer 12

Murdock acknowledged that in many societies, family units included other kin, such as:

1. Vertically extended families, including grandparents
2. Horizontally extended families, where brothers (or less frequently sisters) formed households with their partners and children

Question 13

Murdock suggested that the universal nature of the nuclear family (or units based on it) was for good reasons.
Murdock argued that the family performs what in all societies and that what is best equipped to carry these out?

Answer 13

Murdock argued that:

1. The family performs 4 essential functions in all societies
2. The nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out

Question 14

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
What are Murdock’s 4 functions?

Answer 14

Murdock’s 4 functions are:

1. Sexual function
2. Reproduction of the next generation
3. Education of the young
4. Economic function

Question 15

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Sexual function:
This reinforces the idea of monogamy.
What is this?

Answer 15

This is stable satisfaction of the sex drive with the same partner

Question 16

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Sexual function:
This reinforces the idea of monogamy.
This is stable satisfaction of the sex drive with the same partner.
There shouldn’t be what, only monogamy?

Answer 16

There shouldn’t be polygamy, only monogamy

Question 17

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Sexual function:
This reinforces the idea of monogamy.
This is stable satisfaction of the sex drive with the same partner.
There shouldn’t be polygamy, only monogamy and no what?

Answer 17

There shouldn’t be polygamy, only monogamy and no ‘sleeping around’

Question 18

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Sexual function:
This reinforces the idea of monogamy.
This is stable satisfaction of the sex drive with the same partner.
There shouldn’t be polygamy, only monogamy and no ‘sleeping around.’
What do most societies encourage people to do?

Answer 18

Most societies encourage people to channel their sex drives into socially acceptable relationships such as marriage

Question 19

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Sexual function:
This reinforces the idea of monogamy.
This is stable satisfaction of the sex drive with the same partner.
There shouldn’t be polygamy, only monogamy and no ‘sleeping around.’
Most societies encourage people to channel their sex drives into socially acceptable relationships such as marriage.
How does this help society?

Answer 19

This helps society by preventing social disruption caused by sexual ‘free for alls’

Question 20

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Sexual function:
This reinforces the idea of monogamy.
This is stable satisfaction of the sex drive with the same partner.
There shouldn’t be polygamy, only monogamy and no ‘sleeping around.’
Most societies encourage people to channel their sex drives into socially acceptable relationships such as marriage.
This helps society by preventing social disruption caused by sexual ‘free for alls.’
This prevents what and ensures that children are raised by who?

Answer 20

This:

1. Prevents affairs
2. Ensures that children are raised by their natural parents

Question 21

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Sexual function:
This reinforces the idea of monogamy.
This is stable satisfaction of the sex drive with the same partner.
There shouldn’t be polygamy, only monogamy and no ‘sleeping around.’
Most societies encourage people to channel their sex drives into socially acceptable relationships such as marriage.
This helps society by preventing social disruption caused by sexual ‘free for alls.’
This prevents affairs and ensures that children are raised by their natural parents.

AO3:
In Islamic culture, men can have up to 4 wives.
Another example is that in the Nayar culture, what did Mead find?

Answer 21

Another example is that in the Nayar culture, Mead found that polygamous relationships were also the norm

Question 22

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Reproduction of the next generation:
The family is the main unit within which what happens?

Answer 22

The family is the main unit within which children are reproduced

Question 23

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Reproduction of the next generation:
The family is the main unit within which children are reproduced.
Without this, what would happen?

Answer 23

Without this, society would cease to exist

Question 24

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Reproduction of the next generation:
The family is the main unit within which children are reproduced.
Without this, society would cease to exist.
Mothers and babies are more likely to survive, if fathers are what?

Answer 24

Mothers and babies are more likely to survive, if fathers are on hand to:
1. Protect
2. Provide
for them

Question 25

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Education of the young:
What does Murdock see the family as responsible for?

Answer 25

Murdock sees the family as responsible for primary socialisation

Question 26

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Education of the young:
Murdock sees the family as responsible for primary socialisation.
What does the family teach children?

Answer 26

The family teaches children:

1. Norms
2. Values

Question 27

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Education of the young:
Murdock sees the family as responsible for primary socialisation.
The family teaches children norms and values to prevent what?

Answer 27

The family teaches children:
1. Norms
2. Values
to prevent anomie (Durkheim, another functionalist)

Question 28

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Education of the young:
Murdock sees the family as responsible for primary socialisation.
The family teaches children norms and values to prevent anomie (Durkheim, another functionalist).
How do individuals benefit?

Answer 28

Individuals benefit by growing up to be well-balanced individuals who can fit into society

Question 29

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Education of the young:
Murdock sees the family as responsible for primary socialisation.
The family teaches children norms and values to prevent anomie (Durkheim, another functionalist).
Individuals benefit by growing up to be well-balanced individuals who can fit into society, which helps to ensure a society where there is what?

Answer 29

Individuals benefit by growing up to be well-balanced individuals who can fit into society, which helps to ensure a society where there is consensus about social norms

Question 30

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Education of the young:
Murdock sees the family as responsible for primary socialisation.
The family teaches children norms and values to prevent anomie (Durkheim, another functionalist).
Individuals benefit by growing up to be well-balanced individuals who can fit into society, which helps to ensure a society where there is consensus about social norms, creating what?

Answer 30

Individuals benefit by growing up to be well-balanced individuals who can fit into society, which helps to ensure a society where there is consensus about social norms, creating a stable social system

Question 31

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Education of the young:
Murdock sees the family as responsible for primary socialisation.
The family teaches children norms and values to prevent anomie (Durkheim, another functionalist).
Individuals benefit by growing up to be well-balanced individuals who can fit into society, which helps to ensure a society where there is consensus about social norms, creating a stable social system.

AO3:
Now what are grandparents doing?

Answer 31

Now grandparents are socialisation their grandchildren

Question 32

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Education of the young:
Murdock sees the family as responsible for primary socialisation.
The family teaches children norms and values to prevent anomie (Durkheim, another functionalist).
Individuals benefit by growing up to be well-balanced individuals who can fit into society, which helps to ensure a society where there is consensus about social norms, creating a stable social system.

AO3:
Now grandparents are socialisation their grandchildren, instead of who?

Answer 32

Now grandparents are socialisation their grandchildren, instead of their parents

Question 33

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Economic function:
This is meeting what?

Answer 33

This is meeting its members’ economic needs

Question 34

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Economic function:
This is meeting its members’ economic needs, such as what?

Answer 34

This is meeting its members’ economic needs, such as:

1. Food
2. Shelter

Question 35

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Economic function:
This is meeting its members’ economic needs, such as food and shelter.
In Western societies such as Britain, how do most families act as units of consumption?

Answer 35

In Western societies such as Britain, most families act as units of consumption, buying:
1. Goods
2. Services
for their members

Question 36

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Economic function:
This is meeting its members’ economic needs, such as food and shelter.
In Western societies such as Britain, most families act as units of consumption, buying goods and services for their members.
Individuals benefit by having their needs looked after and how does society benefit?

Answer 36

Individuals benefit by having their needs looked after and society benefits from the economic contribution made by families

Question 37

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Economic function:
This is meeting its members’ economic needs, such as food and shelter.
In Western societies such as Britain, most families act as units of consumption, buying goods and services for their members.
Individuals benefit by having their needs looked after and society benefits from the economic contribution made by families.
What will the man of the family do?

Answer 37

The man of the family will go out to work

Question 38

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Economic function:
This is meeting its members’ economic needs, such as food and shelter.
In Western societies such as Britain, most families act as units of consumption, buying goods and services for their members.
Individuals benefit by having their needs looked after and society benefits from the economic contribution made by families.
The man of the family will go out to work and what will the woman do?

Answer 38

The man of the family will go out to work and the woman will look after the home

Question 39

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Economic function:
This is meeting its members’ economic needs, such as food and shelter.
In Western societies such as Britain, most families act as units of consumption, buying goods and services for their members.
Individuals benefit by having their needs looked after and society benefits from the economic contribution made by families.
The man of the family will go out to work and the woman will look after the home.
The father will be the breadwinner and what will the mother be?

Answer 39

The father will be the breadwinner and the mother will be the nurturer

Question 40

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Economic function:
This is meeting its members’ economic needs, such as food and shelter.
In Western societies such as Britain, most families act as units of consumption, buying goods and services for their members.
Individuals benefit by having their needs looked after and society benefits from the economic contribution made by families.
The man of the family will go out to work and the woman will look after the home.
The father will be the breadwinner and the mother will be the nurturer.

AO3:
There is a increase in what, where males are not the breadwinners and more women are working?

Answer 40

There is a increase in house husbands, where:

1. Males are not the breadwinners
2. More women are working

Question 41

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Criticisms of Murdock:
1. What do Marxists and feminists (conflict theories) reject?

Answer 41

1. Marxists
2. Feminists
   (conflict theories)
   reject his ‘rose-tinted,’ harmonious consensus view

Question 42

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Criticisms of Murdock:
1. Marxists and feminists (conflict theories) reject his ‘rose-tinted,’ harmonious consensus view.
2. What do feminists see the family as doing?

Answer 42

Feminists see the family as:

1. Serving the needs of men
2. Oppressing women

Question 43

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Criticisms of Murdock:
1. Marxists and feminists (conflict theories) reject his ‘rose-tinted,’ harmonious consensus view.
2. Feminists see the family as serving the needs of men and oppressing women.
Example

Answer 43

For example:

1. There is domestic violence and abuse within families
2. Rich talks about compulsory heterosexuality

Question 44

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Criticisms of Murdock:
1. Marxists and feminists (conflict theories) reject his ‘rose-tinted,’ harmonious consensus view.
2. Feminists see the family as serving the needs of men and oppressing women.
For example, there is domestic violence and abuse within families and Rich talks about compulsory heterosexuality.
Functionalists suggest that the family is what and fail to acknowledge the dark side of the family?

Answer 44

Functionalists:

1. Suggest that the family is ‘perfect’
2. Fail to acknowledge the dark side of the family

Question 45

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Criticisms of Murdock:
1. Marxists and feminists (conflict theories) reject his ‘rose-tinted,’ harmonious consensus view.
2. Feminists see the family as serving the needs of men and oppressing women.
For example, there is domestic violence and abuse within families and Rich talks about compulsory heterosexuality.
Functionalists suggest that the family is ‘perfect’ and fail to acknowledge the dark side of the family.
3. Who re-examined Murdock’s data and found that he ignored societies where the gender roles were reversed (the woman was the breadwinner)?

Answer 45

Ann Oakley:

1. Re-examined Murdock’s data
2. Found that he ignored societies where the gender roles were reversed (the woman was the breadwinner)?

Question 46

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Criticisms of Murdock:
1. Marxists and feminists (conflict theories) reject his ‘rose-tinted,’ harmonious consensus view.
2. Feminists see the family as serving the needs of men and oppressing women.
For example, there is domestic violence and abuse within families and Rich talks about compulsory heterosexuality.
Functionalists suggest that the family is ‘perfect’ and fail to acknowledge the dark side of the family.
3. Ann Oakley re-examined Murdock’s data and found that he ignored societies where the gender roles were reversed (the woman was the breadwinner).
What supports this?

Answer 46

Mead’s findings of tribal societies supports this

Question 47

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Criticisms of Murdock:
1. Marxists and feminists (conflict theories) reject his ‘rose-tinted,’ harmonious consensus view.
2. Feminists see the family as serving the needs of men and oppressing women.
For example, there is domestic violence and abuse within families and Rich talks about compulsory heterosexuality.
Functionalists suggest that the family is ‘perfect’ and fail to acknowledge the dark side of the family.
3. Ann Oakley re-examined Murdock’s data and found that he ignored societies where the gender roles were reversed (the woman was the breadwinner).
Mead’s findings of tribal societies supports this.
4. What do Marxists argue about Murdock’s 4 functions?

Answer 47

Marxists argue that Murdock’s 4 functions meets:

1. The needs of capitalism
2. Not the needs of family members or society as a whole

Question 48

What have modern day families done due to industrialisation?

Answer 48

Modern day families have lost their old functions from:
1. Murdock's 4 functions
to
2. 2
due to industrialisation

Question 49

Modern day families have lost their old functions from Murdock’s 4 functions to 2 due to industrialisation.
Who argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform?

Answer 49

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform

Question 50

Modern day families have lost their old functions from Murdock’s 4 functions to 2 due to industrialisation.
Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
What are Parsons’ 2 functions?

Answer 50

Parsons’ 2 functions are:

1. The primary socialisation of children (social control)
2. The stabilisation of adult personalities

Question 51

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
The primary socialisation of children (social control):
It remains essential that children receive their primary socialisation from who?

Answer 51

It remains essential that children receive their primary socialisation from their parents

Question 52

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
The primary socialisation of children (social control):
It remains essential that children receive their primary socialisation from their parents.
Parsons (1955) argued that families are what?

Answer 52

Parsons (1955) argued that families are personality factories

Question 53

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
The primary socialisation of children (social control):
It remains essential that children receive their primary socialisation from their parents.
Parsons (1955) argued that families are personality factories, producing children who what?

Answer 53

Parsons (1955) argued that families are personality factories, producing children who:

1. Are committed to shared norms and values
2. Have a strong sense of belonging to the society

Question 54

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
The primary socialisation of children (social control):
It remains essential that children receive their primary socialisation from their parents.
Parsons (1955) argued that families are personality factories, producing children who are committed to shared norms and values and who have a strong sense of belonging to the society.
What is the family therefore central to?

Answer 54

The family is therefore central to the creation of:

1. Value consensus
2. Social integration
3. Social order

Question 55

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
The primary socialisation of children (social control):
It remains essential that children receive their primary socialisation from their parents.
Parsons (1955) argued that families are personality factories, producing children who are committed to shared norms and values and who have a strong sense of belonging to the society.
The family is therefore central to the creation of value consensus, social integration and social order.
Parsons believed that only the family as a social institution was capable of the what required for successful socialisation into society’s norms and values?

Answer 55

Parsons believed that only the family as a social institution was capable of the:
1. Warmth
2. Security
3. Mutual support
required for successful socialisation into society’s norms and values

Question 56

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
The primary socialisation of children (social control):
It remains essential that children receive their primary socialisation from their parents.
Parsons (1955) argued that families are personality factories, producing children who are committed to shared norms and values and who have a strong sense of belonging to the society.
The family is therefore central to the creation of value consensus, social integration and social order.
Parsons believed that only the family as a social institution was capable of the warmth, security and mutual support required for successful socialisation into society’s norms and values.
While the family is important in primary socialisation, Parsons sees it as having a reduced role where?

Answer 56

While the family is important in primary socialisation, Parsons sees it as having a reduced role in secondary socialisation

Question 57

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
The primary socialisation of children (social control):
It remains essential that children receive their primary socialisation from their parents.
Parsons (1955) argued that families are personality factories, producing children who are committed to shared norms and values and who have a strong sense of belonging to the society.
The family is therefore central to the creation of value consensus, social integration and social order.
Parsons believed that only the family as a social institution was capable of the warmth, security and mutual support required for successful socialisation into society’s norms and values.
While the family is important in primary socialisation, Parsons sees it as having a reduced role in secondary socialisation, where other agencies of socialisation such as schools and peer groups have a what?

Answer 57

While the family is important in primary socialisation, Parsons sees it as having a reduced role in secondary socialisation, where other agencies of socialisation such as:
1. Schools
2. Peer groups
have a greater responsibility

Question 58

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
The primary socialisation of children (social control):
It remains essential that children receive their primary socialisation from their parents.
Parsons (1955) argued that families are personality factories, producing children who are committed to shared norms and values and who have a strong sense of belonging to the society.
The family is therefore central to the creation of value consensus, social integration and social order.
Parsons believed that only the family as a social institution was capable of the warmth, security and mutual support required for successful socialisation into society’s norms and values.
While the family is important in primary socialisation, Parsons sees it as having a reduced role in secondary socialisation, where other agencies of socialisation such as schools and peer groups have a greater responsibility.
The family is an important agent of social control and constantly polices society’s members to maintain value consensus and social order.
What does primary socialisation cause children to develop that teaches them the difference between ‘right’ and ‘wrong?’

Answer 58

Primary socialisation causes children to develop a conscience that teaches them the difference between:

1. ‘Right’
2. ‘Wrong’

Question 59

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
The primary socialisation of children (social control):
It remains essential that children receive their primary socialisation from their parents.
Parsons (1955) argued that families are personality factories, producing children who are committed to shared norms and values and who have a strong sense of belonging to the society.
The family is therefore central to the creation of value consensus, social integration and social order.
Parsons believed that only the family as a social institution was capable of the warmth, security and mutual support required for successful socialisation into society’s norms and values.
While the family is important in primary socialisation, Parsons sees it as having a reduced role in secondary socialisation, where other agencies of socialisation such as schools and peer groups have a greater responsibility.
The family is an important agent of social control and constantly polices society’s members to maintain value consensus and social order.
Primary socialisation causes children to develop a conscience that teaches them the difference between ‘right’ and ‘wrong.’
How is this reinforced?

Answer 59

This is reinforced through sanctions

Question 60

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
The primary socialisation of children (social control):
It remains essential that children receive their primary socialisation from their parents.
Parsons (1955) argued that families are personality factories, producing children who are committed to shared norms and values and who have a strong sense of belonging to the society.
The family is therefore central to the creation of value consensus, social integration and social order.
Parsons believed that only the family as a social institution was capable of the warmth, security and mutual support required for successful socialisation into society’s norms and values.
While the family is important in primary socialisation, Parsons sees it as having a reduced role in secondary socialisation, where other agencies of socialisation such as schools and peer groups have a greater responsibility.
The family is an important agent of social control and constantly polices society’s members to maintain value consensus and social order.
Primary socialisation causes children to develop a conscience that teaches them the difference between ‘right’ and ‘wrong.’
This is reinforced through sanctions, for example what?

Answer 60

This is reinforced through sanctions, for example:

1. Rewards
2. Punishments

Question 61

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
The stabilisation of adult personalities:
What does Parsons’ warm bath theory argue?

Answer 61

Parsons’ warm bath theory argues that the family functions relieve stress of modern day living

Question 62

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
The stabilisation of adult personalities:
Parsons’ warm bath theory argues that the family functions relieve stress of modern day living.
How does family life and home ‘stabilise’ adult personalities?

Answer 62

Family life and home ‘stabilises’ adult personalities by providing workers with:
1. A relaxing environment
2. Unconditional love
as compensation for the stress created by the competitive nature of economic life

Question 63

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
The stabilisation of adult personalities:
Parsons’ warm bath theory argues that the family functions relieve stress of modern day living.
Family and home ‘stabilises’ adult personalities by providing workers with a relaxing environment and unconditional love as compensation for the stress created by the competitive nature of economic life.
The family act as a warm bath, doing what?

Answer 63

The family act as a warm bath:

1. Soothing your worries
2. Making you feel calm

Question 64

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
The stabilisation of adult personalities:
Parsons’ warm bath theory argues that the family functions relieve stress of modern day living.
Family and home ‘stabilises’ adult personalities by providing workers with a relaxing environment and unconditional love as compensation for the stress created by the competitive nature of economic life.
The family act as a warm bath, soothing your worries and making you feel calm, therefore doing what?

Answer 64

The family act as a warm bath:
1. Soothing your worries
2. Making you feel calm
,therefore maintaining a harmonious society

Question 65

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
The stabilisation of adult personalities:
Parsons’ warm bath theory argues that the family functions relieve stress of modern day living.
Family and home ‘stabilises’ adult personalities by providing workers with a relaxing environment and unconditional love as compensation for the stress created by the competitive nature of economic life.
The family act as a warm bath, soothing your worries and making you feel calm, therefore maintaining a harmonious society.
How do parents also benefit from their relationships with their children, for example?

Answer 65

Parents also benefit from their relationships with their children by being able to act out childish aspects of their personalities when playing with their children, for example

Question 66

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
The stabilisation of adult personalities:
Parsons’ warm bath theory argues that the family functions relieve stress of modern day living.
Family and home ‘stabilises’ adult personalities by providing workers with a relaxing environment and unconditional love as compensation for the stress created by the competitive nature of economic life.
The family act as a warm bath, soothing your worries and making you feel calm, therefore maintaining a harmonious society.
Parents also benefit from their relationships with their children by being able to act out childish aspects of their personalities when playing with their children, for example.
The nuclear family therefore provides a safe haven for adults and children from what?

Answer 66

The nuclear family therefore provides a safe haven for:
1. Adults
2. Children
from the pressures of wider society

Question 67

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
The stabilisation of adult personalities:
Parsons’ warm bath theory argues that the family functions relieve stress of modern day living.
Family and home ‘stabilises’ adult personalities by providing workers with a relaxing environment and unconditional love as compensation for the stress created by the competitive nature of economic life.
The family act as a warm bath, soothing your worries and making you feel calm, therefore maintaining a harmonious society.
Parents also benefit from their relationships with their children by being able to act out childish aspects of their personalities when playing with their children, for example.
The nuclear family therefore provides a safe haven for adults and children from the pressures of wider society.
It is also important for the married couple to rely on each other for emotional support, why?

Answer 67

It is also important for the married couple to rely on each other for emotional support, because of the absence of extended kin

Question 68

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
The stabilisation of adult personalities:
Parsons’ warm bath theory argues that the family functions relieve stress of modern day living.
Family and home ‘stabilises’ adult personalities by providing workers with a relaxing environment and unconditional love as compensation for the stress created by the competitive nature of economic life.
The family act as a warm bath, soothing your worries and making you feel calm, therefore maintaining a harmonious society.
Parents also benefit from their relationships with their children by being able to act out childish aspects of their personalities when playing with their children, for example.
The nuclear family therefore provides a safe haven for adults and children from the pressures of wider society.
It is also important for the married couple to rely on each other for emotional support, because of the absence of extended kin.
Why did Parsons believe that the stabilisation function was especially important?

Answer 68

Parsons believed that the stabilisation function was especially important, because unstable personalities have a disruptive effect on the effective running of society

Question 69

Does the family always reduce stress for its members?

What would Postmodernists say?

Answer 69

Postmodernists would say that the family members are limited in terms of:

1. Freedom
2. Choice

Question 70

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
Parsons argues that a lone-parent family cannot adequately perform these 2 functions.
I do not agree with this view, why?

Answer 70

I do not agree with this view, because lone-parent families can still provide the same items of comfort

Question 71

Who (what year) takes a more developed approach and a neo-functionalist view?

Answer 71

Popenoe (1996) takes:

1. A more developed approach
2. A neo-functionalist view

Question 72

Popenoe (1996) takes a more developed approach and a neo-functionalist view.
Popenoe, like Murdock, argues that there are what that underline the way that families are organised?

Answer 72

Popenoe, like Murdock, argues that there are biological:
1. Imperatives
Or,
2. Necessities
that underline the way that families are organised

Question 73

Popenoe (1996) takes a more developed approach and a neo-functionalist view.
Popenoe, like Murdock, argues that there are biological imperatives or necessities that underline the way that families are organised.
Example

Answer 73

For example, Popenoe suggests that:
1. Men
2. Women
are biologically different so that women are better suited to nurturing children, especially in their early years

Question 74

Popenoe (1996) takes a more developed approach and a neo-functionalist view.
Popenoe, like Murdock, argues that there are biological imperatives or necessities that underline the way that families are organised.
For example, Popenoe suggests that men and women are biologically different so that women are better suited to nurturing children, especially in their early years.
Who is this supported by?

Answer 74

This is supported by:

1. Wilson
2. Fox

Question 75

Popenoe (1996) takes a more developed approach and a neo-functionalist view.
Popenoe, like Murdock, argues that there are biological imperatives or necessities that underline the way that families are organised.
For example, Popenoe suggests that men and women are biologically different so that women are better suited to nurturing children, especially in their early years.
This is supported by Wilson and Fox.
What does Popenoe argue that we need?

Answer 75

Popenoe argues that we need a new cultural script, a set of guidelines for what families should be like

Question 76

Popenoe (1996) takes a more developed approach and a neo-functionalist view.
Popenoe, like Murdock, argues that there are biological imperatives or necessities that underline the way that families are organised.
For example, Popenoe suggests that men and women are biologically different so that women are better suited to nurturing children, especially in their early years.
This is supported by Wilson and Fox.
Popenoe argues that we need a new cultural script, a set of guidelines for what families should be like, based on what?

Answer 76

Popenoe argues that we need a new cultural script, a set of guidelines for what families should be like, based on what he calls ‘biosocial reality’

Question 77

Popenoe (1996) takes a more developed approach and a neo-functionalist view.
Popenoe, like Murdock, argues that there are biological imperatives or necessities that underline the way that families are organised.
For example, Popenoe suggests that men and women are biologically different so that women are better suited to nurturing children, especially in their early years.
This is supported by Wilson and Fox.
Popenoe argues that we need a new cultural script, a set of guidelines for what families should be like, based on what he calls ‘biosocial’ reality.
Like other functionalists, what does Popenoe therefore imply?

Answer 77

Like other functionalists, Popenoe therefore implies that some types of families are less functional than others

Question 78

Popenoe (1996) takes a more developed approach and a neo-functionalist view.
Popenoe, like Murdock, argues that there are biological imperatives or necessities that underline the way that families are organised.
For example, Popenoe suggests that men and women are biologically different so that women are better suited to nurturing children, especially in their early years.
This is supported by Wilson and Fox.
Popenoe argues that we need a new cultural script, a set of guidelines for what families should be like, based on what he calls ‘biosocial’ reality.
Like other functionalists, Popenoe therefore implies that some types of families are less functional than others, why?

Answer 78

Like other functionalists, Popenoe therefore implies that some types of families are less functional than others, because they are not based on the biological:
1. Abilities
2. Needs
of human beings

Question 79

Popenoe (1996) takes a more developed approach and a neo-functionalist view.
Popenoe, like Murdock, argues that there are biological imperatives or necessities that underline the way that families are organised.
For example, Popenoe suggests that men and women are biologically different so that women are better suited to nurturing children, especially in their early years.
This is supported by Wilson and Fox.
Popenoe argues that we need a new cultural script, a set of guidelines for what families should be like, based on what he calls ‘biosocial’ reality.
Like other functionalists, Popenoe therefore implies that some types of families are less functional than others, because they are not based on the biological abilities and needs of human beings.
Therefore, what?

Answer 79

Therefore, children brought up in alternative families are more likely to be damaged by their early childhood experiences

Question 80

Popenoe (1996) takes a more developed approach and a neo-functionalist view.
Popenoe, like Murdock, argues that there are biological imperatives or necessities that underline the way that families are organised.
For example, Popenoe suggests that men and women are biologically different so that women are better suited to nurturing children, especially in their early years.
This is supported by Wilson and Fox.
Popenoe argues that we need a new cultural script, a set of guidelines for what families should be like, based on what he calls ‘biosocial’ reality.
Like other functionalists, Popenoe therefore implies that some types of families are less functional than others, because they are not based on the biological abilities and needs of human beings.
Therefore, children brought up in alternative families are more likely to be damaged by their early childhood experiences.

AO3:
Who is an AO3 critique?

Answer 80

Guasp is an AO3 critique

Question 81

How many women and how many men have faced or do face domestic violence?

Answer 81

1 in 4 women and 1 in 7 men:
1. Have faced
Or,
2. Do face
domestic violence

Question 82

AO3:
Functionalism strengths:
1. This approach shows how a part of society can work at 2 different levels - Both doing what?

Answer 82

This approach shows how a part of society can work at 2 different levels - Both:

1. Fulfilling the needs of each individual
2. Meeting the needs of the whole society at the same time

Question 83

AO3:
Functionalism strengths:
1. This approach shows how a part of society can work at 2 different levels - Both fulfilling the needs of each individual and meeting the needs of the whole society at the same time.
2. Functionalism provides a very what view of society - It is very, very positive?

Answer 83

Functionalism provides a very harmonious view of society - It is very, very positive

Question 84

AO3:
Functionalism strengths:
1. This approach shows how a part of society can work at 2 different levels - Both fulfilling the needs of each individual and meeting the needs of the whole society at the same time.
2. Functionalism provides a very harmonious view of society - It is very, very positive.
3. Functionalists show how each of the parts of society are what?

Answer 84

Functionalists show how each of the parts of society are interrelated

Question 85

AO3:
Functionalism strengths:
1. This approach shows how a part of society can work at 2 different levels - Both fulfilling the needs of each individual and meeting the needs of the whole society at the same time.
2. Functionalism provides a very harmonious view of society - It is very, very positive.
3. Functionalists show how each of the parts of society are interrelated, each contributing to what?

Answer 85

Functionalists show how each of the parts of society are interrelated, each contributing to the well-being of the whole society - The organic analogy - Durkheim

Question 86

AO3:
Functionalism strengths:
1. This approach shows how a part of society can work at 2 different levels - Both fulfilling the needs of each individual and meeting the needs of the whole society at the same time.
2. Functionalism provides a very harmonious view of society - It is very, very positive.
3. Functionalists show how each of the parts of society are interrelated, each contributing to the well-being of the whole society - The organic analogy - Durkheim.
4. This approach stresses what?

Answer 86

This approach stresses the great importance of the family as the basis of society

Question 87

AO3:
Functionalism strengths:
1. This approach shows how a part of society can work at 2 different levels - Both fulfilling the needs of each individual and meeting the needs of the whole society at the same time.
2. Functionalism provides a very harmonious view of society - It is very, very positive.
3. Functionalists show how each of the parts of society are interrelated, each contributing to the well-being of the whole society - The organic analogy - Durkheim.
4. This approach stresses the great importance of the family as the basis of society.
5. The family is seen as very important in passing on the norms and values that are what in society?

Answer 87

The family is seen as very important in passing on the:
1. Norms
2. Values
that are universal in society

Question 88

AO3:
Functionalism weaknesses:
1. The approach is too positive - It presents a largely optimistic view of the nuclear family and suggests that family life is always what?

Answer 88

The approach is too positive - It:

1. Presents a largely optimistic view of the nuclear family
2. Suggests that family life is always good and always happy

Question 89

AO3:
Functionalism weaknesses:
1. The approach is too positive - It presents a largely optimistic view of the nuclear family and suggests that family life is always good and always happy.
2. It therefore tends to ignore what?

Answer 89

It therefore tends to ignore the:
1. Conflict
2. Exploitation
stressed by Marxists

Question 90

AO3:
Functionalism weaknesses:
1. The approach is too positive - It presents a largely optimistic view of the nuclear family and suggests that family life is always good and always happy.
2. It therefore tends to ignore the conflict and exploitation stressed by Marxists.
Critics argue that this argues the what of families?

Answer 90

Critics argue that this ignores:
1. The dark side
Or,
2. The negative aspects
of families

Question 91

AO3:
Functionalism weaknesses:
1. The approach is too positive - It presents a largely optimistic view of the nuclear family and suggests that family life is always good and always happy.
2. It therefore tends to ignore the conflict and exploitation stressed by Marxists.
Critics argue that this ignores the dark side or the negative aspects of families, such as what?

Answer 91

Critics argue that this ignores the dark side or the negative aspects of families, such as:

1. Child abuse
2. Conflict between family members
3. Domestic violence

Question 92

AO3:
Functionalism weaknesses:
1. The approach is too positive - It presents a largely optimistic view of the nuclear family and suggests that family life is always good and always happy.
2. It therefore tends to ignore the conflict and exploitation stressed by Marxists.
Critics argue that this ignores the dark side or the negative aspects of families, such as child abuse, conflict between family members and domestic violence.
What does focusing on the functions of the family ignore?

Answer 92

Focusing on the functions of the family ignores the fact that many families are dysfunctional

Question 93

AO3:
Functionalism weaknesses:
1. The approach is too positive - It presents a largely optimistic view of the nuclear family and suggests that family life is always good and always happy.
2. It therefore tends to ignore the conflict and exploitation stressed by Marxists.
Critics argue that this ignores the dark side or the negative aspects of families, such as child abuse, conflict between family members and domestic violence.
Focusing on the functions of the family ignores the fact that many families are dysfunctional.
Who (what year) is this supported by?

Answer 93

This is supported by the psychologist James (2003)

Question 94

AO3:
Functionalism weaknesses:
1. The approach is too positive - It presents a largely optimistic view of the nuclear family and suggests that family life is always good and always happy.
2. It therefore tends to ignore the conflict and exploitation stressed by Marxists.
Critics argue that this ignores the dark side or the negative aspects of families, such as child abuse, conflict between family members and domestic violence.
Focusing on the functions of the family ignores the fact that many families are dysfunctional.
This is supported by the psychologist James (2003), who argues what?

Answer 94

This is supported by the psychologist James (2003), who argues that many of the problems we face in adult life can be traced back to early childhood

Question 95

AO3:
Functionalism weaknesses:
1. The approach is too positive - It presents a largely optimistic view of the nuclear family and suggests that family life is always good and always happy.
2. It therefore tends to ignore the conflict and exploitation stressed by Marxists.
Critics argue that this ignores the dark side or the negative aspects of families, such as child abuse, conflict between family members and domestic violence.
Focusing on the functions of the family ignores the fact that many families are dysfunctional.
This is supported by the psychologist James (2003), who argues that many of the problems we face in adult life can be traced back to early childhood.
Example

Answer 95

For example, if we are:
1. Over-competitive
2. Lacking in confidence
Or,
2. Constantly jealous of other people
,these problems can be traced back to the way we were socialised by our parents in our early years

Question 96

AO3:
Functionalism weaknesses:
1. The approach is too positive - It presents a largely optimistic view of the nuclear family and suggests that family life is always good and always happy.
2. It therefore tends to ignore the conflict and exploitation stressed by Marxists.
Critics argue that this ignores the dark side or the negative aspects of families, such as child abuse, conflict between family members and domestic violence.
Focusing on the functions of the family ignores the fact that many families are dysfunctional.
This is supported by the psychologist James (2003), who argues that many of the problems we face in adult life can be traced back to early childhood.
For example, if we are over-competitive, lacking in confidence or constantly jealous of other people, these problems can be traced back to the way we were socialised by our parents in our early years.
3. By stressing the idea that the nuclear family is universal, what does this approach do?

Answer 96

By stressing the idea that the nuclear family is universal, this approach:

1. Ignores family diversity
2. Seems to assume that other family types are inadequate

Question 97

AO3:
Functionalism weaknesses:
1. The approach is too positive - It presents a largely optimistic view of the nuclear family and suggests that family life is always good and always happy.
2. It therefore tends to ignore the conflict and exploitation stressed by Marxists.
Critics argue that this ignores the dark side or the negative aspects of families, such as child abuse, conflict between family members and domestic violence.
Focusing on the functions of the family ignores the fact that many families are dysfunctional.
This is supported by the psychologist James (2003), who argues that many of the problems we face in adult life can be traced back to early childhood.
For example, if we are over-competitive, lacking in confidence or constantly jealous of other people, these problems can be traced back to the way we were socialised by our parents in our early years.
3. By stressing the idea that the nuclear family is universal, this approach ignores family diversity and seems to assume that other family types are inadequate.

An AO3 critique for this is Guasp.

The growth in the number of other forms of family, such as cohabiting families, same-sex families and families of choice, means that functionalism is seen as very what by many sociologists today and so isn’t applicable anymore?

Answer 97

The growth in the number of other forms of family, such as:
1. Cohabiting families
2. Same-sex families
2. Families of choice
,means that functionalism is seen as very out-of-date by many sociologists today and so isn’t applicable anymore

Question 98

AO3:
Functionalism weaknesses:
1. The approach is too positive - It presents a largely optimistic view of the nuclear family and suggests that family life is always good and always happy.
2. It therefore tends to ignore the conflict and exploitation stressed by Marxists.
Critics argue that this ignores the dark side or the negative aspects of families, such as child abuse, conflict between family members and domestic violence.
Focusing on the functions of the family ignores the fact that many families are dysfunctional.
This is supported by the psychologist James (2003), who argues that many of the problems we face in adult life can be traced back to early childhood.
For example, if we are over-competitive, lacking in confidence or constantly jealous of other people, these problems can be traced back to the way we were socialised by our parents in our early years.
3. By stressing the idea that the nuclear family is universal, this approach ignores family diversity and seems to assume that other family types are inadequate.

An AO3 critique for this is Guasp.

The growth in the number of other forms of family, such as cohabiting families, same-sex families and families of choice, means that functionalism is seen as very out-of-date by many sociologists today and so isn’t applicable anymore.
4. Functionalism does not consider the ways in which functions may be performed by other institutions, rather than by what?

Answer 98

Functionalism does not consider the ways in which functions may be performed by:
1. Other institutions
,rather than
2. The family

Question 99

AO3:
Functionalism weaknesses:
1. The approach is too positive - It presents a largely optimistic view of the nuclear family and suggests that family life is always good and always happy.
2. It therefore tends to ignore the conflict and exploitation stressed by Marxists.
Critics argue that this ignores the dark side or the negative aspects of families, such as child abuse, conflict between family members and domestic violence.
Focusing on the functions of the family ignores the fact that many families are dysfunctional.
This is supported by the psychologist James (2003), who argues that many of the problems we face in adult life can be traced back to early childhood.
For example, if we are over-competitive, lacking in confidence or constantly jealous of other people, these problems can be traced back to the way we were socialised by our parents in our early years.
3. By stressing the idea that the nuclear family is universal, this approach ignores family diversity and seems to assume that other family types are inadequate.

An AO3 critique for this is Guasp.

The growth in the number of other forms of family, such as cohabiting families, same-sex families and families of choice, means that functionalism is seen as very out-of-date by many sociologists today and so isn’t applicable anymore.

4. Functionalism does not consider the ways in which functions may be performed by other institutions, rather than by the family.
5. Feminists are critical of this approach, because it assumes that what are fixed?

Answer 99

Feminists are critical of this approach, because it assumes that gender roles are fixed

Question 100

AO3:
Functionalism weaknesses:
1. The approach is too positive - It presents a largely optimistic view of the nuclear family and suggests that family life is always good and always happy.
2. It therefore tends to ignore the conflict and exploitation stressed by Marxists.
Critics argue that this ignores the dark side or the negative aspects of families, such as child abuse, conflict between family members and domestic violence.
Focusing on the functions of the family ignores the fact that many families are dysfunctional.
This is supported by the psychologist James (2003), who argues that many of the problems we face in adult life can be traced back to early childhood.
For example, if we are over-competitive, lacking in confidence or constantly jealous of other people, these problems can be traced back to the way we were socialised by our parents in our early years.
3. By stressing the idea that the nuclear family is universal, this approach ignores family diversity and seems to assume that other family types are inadequate.

An AO3 critique for this is Guasp.

The growth in the number of other forms of family, such as cohabiting families, same-sex families and families of choice, means that functionalism is seen as very out-of-date by many sociologists today and so isn’t applicable anymore.

4. Functionalism does not consider the ways in which functions may be performed by other institutions, rather than by the family.
5. Feminists are critical of this approach, because it assumes that gender roles are fixed, ignoring what?

Answer 100

Feminists are critical of this approach, because it assumes that gender roles are fixed, ignoring the changes that have taken place

Question 101

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
AO3 of Parsons:
For feminists, Parsons’ view of the family is sexist, why?

Answer 101

For feminists, Parsons’ view of the family is sexist, because he assumes that:

1. Men and women will naturally perform separate roles
2. These roles have equal status

Question 102

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
AO3 of Parsons:
For feminists, Parsons’ view of the family is sexist, because he assumes that men and women will naturally perform separate roles and that these roles have equal status.
Feminists argue that in reality, what are traditional nuclear families based on?

Answer 102

Feminists argue that in reality, traditional nuclear families are based on male:

1. Power
2. Dominance

Question 103

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
AO3 of Parsons:
For feminists, Parsons’ view of the family is sexist, because he assumes that men and women will naturally perform separate roles and that these roles have equal status.
Feminists argue that in reality, traditional nuclear families are based on male power and dominance.
Example

Answer 103

For example:
1. The responsibilities for emotional support entailed in the stabilisation of adult personalities largely fall on women
,while
2. Women themselves receive little emotional support from their male partners

Question 104

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
AO3 of Parsons:
For feminists, Parsons’ view of the family is sexist, because he assumes that men and women will naturally perform separate roles and that these roles have equal status.
Feminists argue that in reality, traditional nuclear families are based on male power and dominance.
For example, the responsibilities for emotional support entailed in the stabilisation of adult personalities largely fall on women, while women themselves receive little emotional support from their male partners.
Parsons largely dismisses the idea of women doing what?

Answer 104

Parsons largely dismisses the idea of women playing a significant instrumental role

Question 105

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
AO3 of Parsons:
For feminists, Parsons’ view of the family is sexist, because he assumes that men and women will naturally perform separate roles and that these roles have equal status.
Feminists argue that in reality, traditional nuclear families are based on male power and dominance.
For example, the responsibilities for emotional support entailed in the stabilisation of adult personalities largely fall on women, while women themselves receive little emotional support from their male partners.
Parsons largely dismisses the idea of women playing a significant instrumental role, arguing what?

Answer 105

Parsons largely dismisses the idea of women playing a significant instrumental role, arguing that in the US in the 1950s, most women:
1. Were only in part-time jobs
Or,
2. Were full-time housewives

Question 106

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
AO3 of Parsons:
For feminists, Parsons’ view of the family is sexist, because he assumes that men and women will naturally perform separate roles and that these roles have equal status.
Feminists argue that in reality, traditional nuclear families are based on male power and dominance.
For example, the responsibilities for emotional support entailed in the stabilisation of adult personalities largely fall on women, while women themselves receive little emotional support from their male partners.
Parsons largely dismisses the idea of women playing a significant instrumental role, arguing that in the US in the 1950s, most women were only in part-time jobs or were full-time housewives.
Today, women make up what % of the UK workforce and make a significant what contribution to most families?

Answer 106

Today, women:

1. Make up 47% of the UK workforce
2. Make a significant economic contribution to most families

Question 107

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
AO3 of Parsons:
For interactionist sociologists, Parsons’ view of socialisation can be seen whereby parents do what?

Answer 107

For interactionist sociologists, Parsons’ view of socialisation can be seen whereby parents instil the:
1. Norms
2. Values
of society into children who are waiting to be ‘filled’ with culture

Question 108

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
AO3 of Parsons:
For interactionist sociologists, Parsons’ view of socialisation can be seen whereby parents instil the norms and values of society into children who are waiting to be ‘filled’ with culture.
In reality, how can socialisation be seen?

Answer 108

In reality, socialisation can be seen as a two-way process

Question 109

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
AO3 of Parsons:
For interactionist sociologists, Parsons’ view of socialisation can be seen whereby parents instil the norms and values of society into children who are waiting to be ‘filled’ with culture.
In reality, socialisation can be seen as a two-way process, where what?

Answer 109

In reality, socialisation can be seen as a two-way process, where children socialise their parents as much as they are socialised by them

Question 110

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
AO3 of Parsons:
Parsons seems to see the nuclear family as an ideal institution that what?

Answer 110

Parsons seems to see the nuclear family as an ideal institution that modern industrial societies require

Question 111

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
AO3 of Parsons:
Parsons seems to see the nuclear family as an ideal institution that modern industrial societies require.
What does this ignore?

Answer 111

This ignores the degree of choice available in contemporary societies about:

1. Family structures
2. Relationships

Question 112

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
AO3 of Parsons:
Parsons seems to see the nuclear family as an ideal institution that modern industrial societies require.
This ignores the degree of choice available in contemporary societies about family structures and relationships.
Rather than one dominant form of the family, the nuclear family, we are seeing increasingly what families and households?

Answer 112

Rather than one dominant form of the family, the nuclear family, we are seeing increasingly:
1. Diverse
2. Fluid
families and households