Families and Households - Theories Flashcards
What does the Functionalist Perspective see as the basis of society?
Value consensus—a shared set of norms and values
This enables members to co-operate harmoniously to meet society’s needs.
What is the Organic analogy in Functionalism?
Society is likened to a biological organism where all parts work together to meet needs
Examples include institutions like education, economy, religion, and state.
What are the four essential functions of the family according to Murdock?
- Stable satisfaction of the sex drive
- Reproduction of the next generation
- Socialisation of the young
- Satisfaction of members’ economic needs
What is Murdock’s view on the nuclear family?
It is universal and practical for meeting societal needs
Murdock argues that this explains its presence in all human societies.
What are the two types of family structures identified by Parsons?
- Three-generational extended family
- Two-generational nuclear family
What are the two irreducible functions of the nuclear family according to Parsons?
- Primary Socialisation of the young
- Stabilisation of adult personalities
What does the New Right Perspective argue about family roles?
A biological-based division of labor between male breadwinners and female homemakers
They view this division as natural and the best for socialising children.
What do Marxists believe about the family?
It contributes to the maintenance of exploitation in society
The family is seen as an oppressive institution benefiting capitalism.
What is the ideological function of the family according to Zaretsky?
The ‘cult of private life’ distracts attention from exploitation
This belief suggests fulfillment is only found in family life.
What do Liberal Feminists argue regarding gender inequality?
It is gradually being overcome through legal reforms and changing attitudes
They see this as a ‘march of progress’.
What functions do Marxist Feminists attribute to women’s roles in the family?
- Reproducing the labor force
- Absorbing men’s anger
- Serving as a reserve army of cheap labor
What is the main cause of women’s oppression according to Radical Feminists?
Patriarchy
They view family and marriage as key patriarchal institutions.
What is the focus of the Personal Life Perspective (PLP) in studying families?
The meanings individual family members give to their relationships
This contrasts with top-down structural approaches.
What did Nordqvist and Smart’s research on donor-conceived children highlight?
The importance of social relationships over genetic ones in defining ‘family’
Parents often emphasized social ties when discussing family.
True or False: The Functionalist Perspective ignores conflict and exploitation in the family.
True
