Family diversity

Question 1

Functionalism and the nuclear family

Answer 1

• Parsons, views the needs of modern society met by the nuclear family
• performing 2 functions: socialisation, stabilisation
• other family types, dysfunctional as they can’t perform functions required

Question 2

The new right and the nuclear family

Answer 2

• believe in only 1 correct family types, patriarchal nuclear
• see it as natural based on biological differences
• oppose cohabitation, gay relationships, cause social problems
• concerned about lone parent, harmful to children:
  cant discipline properly, boys without male role model, rely on welfare

Question 3

New right view on cohabitation

Answer 3

Benson:
- couples more stable when married
- rate of divorce on married, lower than separations
- requires commitment
- laws and policies undermine tradition

Question 4

Criticisms of the new right

Answer 4

• feminist, Oakley, roles not fixed by biology, cross cultural studies show variations in roles
• based on patriarchy & oppression on women, prevents women from working, dependent on men
• no evidence children in lone parent families are delinquent

Question 5

Chesters view on the neo-conventional family

Answer 5

• doesn’t view changes negatively
• neo-conventional, dual earner
• most live in households with married couple
• cohabitation increased but temporary
• marriage continues till death

Question 6

Cheal, postmodernist view on family structure

Answer 6

• entered a new chaotic postmodern stage, unpredictable, unstable

Question 7

Stacey, benefits of postmodern families

Answer 7

• greater freedom and choice has benefitted women, free from oppression
• interviewed women who rejected traditional housewife role. worked, improved job, divorced and remarried
• better suited to their needs
• Morgan: pointless making generalisations, family is whoever we choose to be

Question 8

Giddens and Beck individualisation thesis:

Answer 8

traditional social structures have lost influence
- peoples lives no longer defined by fixed roles
- freedom over how we live our lives

Question 9

Giddens, choice and equality affecting the family

Answer 9

contraception= sex and intimacy without reproduction
independence= women greater opportunities in work and education

Question 10

Giddens, the pure relationship

Answer 10

• exists solely to satisfy needs, stay together for love and happiness rather than children

Question 11

Giddens, view on same sex couples

Answer 11

• not influenced by tradition, develop relationships based on choice
• create structures serving their needs rather than pre-existing norms

Question 12

What is the negotiated family, Beck?

Answer 12

• dont conform to traditions, vary according to families wishes, decide whats best on an equal negotiation
• however less stable, leave if needs arent met

Question 13

What is the zombie family, Beck?

Answer 13

• ‘alive’ but is actually dead, can’t provide haven of security due to instability

Question 14

How does the personal life perspective criticise the individualisation thesis?

Answer 14

• ignores social class inequalities or patriarchal gender norms which shape our relationship choices

Question 15

What is the connectedness thesis, Smart?

Answer 15

• live in networks of existing relationships and personal histories which influence choices in relationships
  (family connections)

Question 16

How does the connectedness thesis emphasise class & gender

Answer 16

• gender norms, women have custody, limit opportunity to form new relationships
• men paid better
• women and children vulnerable, trapped in abusive relationships

Question 17

What does May argue about family structures?

Answer 17

• structures are not disappearing but reshaped
• women rights to vote, divorce, education, jobs
• however still don’t have it all