Functionalist and new right theory Flashcards
What does Domestic Division of labour mean
refers to the roles that women and men perform in the home – housework and childcare
What does the functionalist theory say about gender roles
in a traditional nuclear family, these roles are segregated conjugal roles – the couple have separate and distinct responsibilities.
Parson’s View on gender roles (functionalist)
he argues that the Husband’s role is the instrumental role- he is the breadwinner, working to financially support the family.
Wife= Expressive- Housewife, responsible for childcare,housework and emotional well being of the family
Why does Parson say that the division of labour is natural and normal?
it is based on biological differences between women and men as women are biologically more suited to the caring role. Therefore, as long as the man and woman are carrying out their natural roles they are both fulfilled.
Thus, segregated division of labour benefits everyone – women, men, children and the society.
Evaluation for Functionalist theory- Symmetrical family
Willmott and Young take a march of progress view of the family – they claim that gradually, over time, family life has become more egalitarian (equal) for all family members.
They argue that there has been a trend from segregated conjugal roles to joint conjugal roles whereby women and men share all responsibilities equally.
What are some examples of the roles both couples play in a symmetrical family
- Work outside the home
- Share housework tasks
- Share childcare tasks
- Spend their leisure time together
- Make decisions jointly
Factors leading to the symmetrical family-Influence of the feminist movement
Changed women’s position in society, gave them aspirations – education and work
Factors leading to the symmetrical family-Increasing employment opportunities for women
Financial independence
gives women greater equality with men. Importance of women’s
earnings encouraged men to do the housework.
Factors leading to the symmetrical family-Increased geographical
Younger couples moving away from their extended kin in search of employment.
Factors leading to the symmetrical family-Contraception
Gave women power over their bodies – they can limit the number of children they have and have the freedom to obtain employment.
Factors leading to the symmetrical family-development of home based entertainment
Moved the leisure pursuits from the pub to the home. Families chose to stay in and watch TV. As men spent more time at home, they became more involved in household tasks.
Factors leading to the symmetrical family-Decline of the extended family
Women can no longer rely on their female kin for support so turn to husbands.
