Functional theories Flashcards
Functionalism is what 2 type of theory?
macro-structural theory,
consensus theory
What is the value consesnus learned through?
socialisation
What are the 4 functions of the family (Murdock)
- sexual
- reproduction
- primary socialisation
- economic
explain the sexual function (Murdock)
sex should only be after marriage between man & woman to prevent unwanted pregnancies & diseases (e.g STI’s)
evaluate Murdock’s sexual function
outdated - ignores modern society socially accepts diverse sexuality (homos)
explain the reproduction function (Murdock)
Couples must reproduce to ensure continuation of society - hetero most effective in reproducing the next gen of society
evaluate Murdock’s reproduction function
- Modern technology allows diverse families to reproduce (surrogacy, IVF)
- Modern society, not all couples want children > focus on career/themselves
explain the primary socialisation function (Murdock)
Hetero couples most effective in teaching children N+V of society > help upbringing them positively
evaluate Murdock’s primary socialisation function
- many children from nuclear families still commit crimes
- parents, despite being hetero, may pass on negative attitudes (sexist/racist)
explain the economic function (Murdock)
Families spend money to buy needs for family members > provide shelter & food > benefits economy (positively)
evaluate Murdock’s economic function
Marxist - benefits capitalism in the economy > false needs > makes families poor as they lose money whilst helping rich stay rich
what is the main evaluation of Murdock’s theory?
Outdated to and understanding of households in contemporary society > fails to consider family diversity & other fam structures apart from nuclear can also perform his 4 functions
What are the two essential functions according to Parsons?
- primary socialisation of children
- stabilisation of adult personalities
What does he say about primary socialisation (Parsons)
Family is 1st place children learn about society’s shared N+V - fam is crucial in shaping personalities > ensuring they brought up well to become integrated members of society (social stability)
Give examples of what N+V families teach children
- eating with knife and fork
- queuing in shops
What does Parson’s primary socialisation theory ignore?
child poverty
evaluate Parson’s theory of primary socialisation
Assumes all children brought up positively - ignores child poverty > financial stress for parents - negative impact on parent-child relationships
How many children in the UK are currently living in poverty?
around 4 million +
Because of child poverty, parents face … that have a negative impact on..
- financial stress
- parent-child relationships
Give an example of child poverty to evaluate Parsons primary socialisation
mother living in poverty cannot easily sit and read happily, difficult to switch off money worries (high rent/bills)
What is the warm bath theory? (SOAP - Parsons)
family is the place where males can release tensions, enabling them to return to work refreshed and ready to work hare - like a bubble bath
explain stabilisation of adult personalities (Parsons)
Marital couples provide each other with emotional support & parenting enables them to indulge in the ‘childish side’ of their personalities
SOAP is only achieved when..?
female takes the expressive role, takes care of child & husband’s needs
What does SOAP help for wider society?
helps keep the economy running efficiently by making sure male workers are satisfied and happy so they’re able to work to the best of their ability
