functionalism Flashcards
what is the generic functionalist view of the family?
the family is a cornerstone of society, it performs essential functions that help social stability and social cohesion
what did murdock claim were the 4 functions of the family?
-sexual
-reproduction
-socialisation
-economic
what is meant by ‘sexual’ as a function of the family?
adult’s sexual relationships are controlled and socially acceptable
stable monogamous heterosexual relationships
what is meant by ‘reproduction’ as a function of the family?
biological reproduction of the next generation in a stable environment
what is meant by ‘socialisation’ as a function of the family?
teaches basic norms and values so the next generation are fully integrated into society
what is meant by ‘economic’ as a function of the family?
meets basic economic needs eg food for the family, electricity etc
what were the 2 functions of the family proposed by parsons?
-socialisation
-stabilisation of adult personalities
what is meant by ‘stabilisation of adult personalities’ as a function of the family?
emotional security that is achieved within a marital relationship
industrial society is stressful and the family is where the working man can be ‘de-stressed’ by his wife (warm bath theory)
stabilisation is achieved through biologically determined roles (expressive and instrumental)
what are the 2 internal criticisms of parsons functions?
-best fit theory (nuclear family isn’t universal)
-structural differentiation (some family functions have moved to other institutions)
what are the 4 evaluative points on the functionalist view of the family?
1-downplays the role of conflict (family isnt always safe and warm)
2-out of date (women work now)
3-deterministic
4-ignores family diversity (assumes all families are best when nuclear, but many different structures fulfil the same functions)
-young and willmott - still a lot of extended families in the 70’s east London
