Functionalism: families

Question 1

What does the sexual function do?

Answer 1

Limits sexuality to monogamous relationships, preventing the conflict that might result from sexual desire.

Question 2

What does the reproductive function do?

Answer 2

Ensures reproduction of the new generation

Question 3

What does the economic function do?

Answer 3

Economic unit ensuring survival of members by providing food and shelter.

Question 4

What does the socialisation function do?

Answer 4

Provides stable environment so children can be socialised into the culture of their society.

Question 5

What does Talcott Parsons say are the two irreducible functions of the family?

Answer 5

1. Primary Socialisation

2. Stabilisation of the adult personalities

Question 6

What does Murdock say are the 4 Universal Functions of the family?

Answer 6

1. Sexual Function
2. Reproductive Function
3. Economic
4. Socialisation Function

Question 7

Structural Differentiation: As society changes family looses some of it’s functions. Give one example

Answer 7

Health care for the family used to be the responsibility of the family. Specialist institutions have taken over these.

Question 8

Name 3 criticisms of Functionalism

Answer 8

1. Traditional family has a unique role= Some societies don’t have traditional families.
2. Family is functional for all members= Ignores domestic violence
3. Family unit benefits all members= Feminists argue men benefit more than women

Question 9

What did Peter Laslett say about criticising Parsons theory?

Answer 9

Found from 1564-1821 only 10% of households were extended.

Argues family structure helped produce Ind Rev rather than being a consequence of it.