Family Diversity

Question 1

Functionalism

Answer 1

Prefer nuclear family
Parsons argues there is a ‘functional fit’ between the nuclear family and modern society
Creates a geographically and socially mobile workforce
Irreducible functions:socialisation of children and stabilisation of adult personality

Question 2

Chester

Answer 2

Majority of people are not choosing to live in alternatives to the nuclear family on a long term basis, but it reflects the life cycle of the family which is fluid

Question 3

New right

Answer 3

Adopt a conservative anti-feminist view
Nuclear family corner stone of society
Family diversity product of family breakdown
Critical of matrifocals as children need a strong male figure to prevent delinquency

Question 4

Feminists

Answer 4

See family diversity as positive
Breaking down patriarchy
Everyone has the freedom to choose their own path

Question 5

Individualisation thesis

Answer 5

Giddens and beck
Individuals have fewer fixed certainties and roles
Have become dis embedded from traditional roles and structures leaving us with more freedom

Question 6

Connectedness thesis

Answer 6

Smart and may
Giddens and beck have the view of ‘an idealised version of a white middle class man’
Smart argues choices are always made ‘within a web of connectedness’
Live within a web of existing relationships which influence range of options