Functionalist Perspective

Question 1

Overview

Answer 1

Vital organ in maintaining society (biological analogy)
Performs functions- positive impact

Question 2

Murdock

4 Functions

Answer 2

Sexual
Reproduction
Socialisation
Economic

Question 3

4 Functions

Sexual

Answer 3

Family allows expression of sexuality in socially accepted context
Stabilises society through committed monogamy

Question 4

4 Functions

Reproduction

Answer 4

Family provides stability for reproduction + rearing children

Question 5

4 Functions

Socialisation

Answer 5

Family important for primary socialisation of children
Learn socially acceptable behaviour + culture- build value consensus

Question 6

4 Functions

Economic

Answer 6

Family unit of production + consumption
Provides food + shelter for family members

Question 7

Parsons

2 Functions

Answer 7

Primary socialisation
Stabilisation of adult personalities

Question 8

2 Functions

Primary Socialisation

Answer 8

Learning + internalising societal culture
Society would cease to exist without this
Society’s culture part of an individual’s personality- moulded in terms of societal values, families provide requisite warmth + support

Question 9

2 Functions

Stabilisation of Adult Personalities

Answer 9

Industrial society- expressive and instrumental roles
Wife’s expressive role reduces tension/stress caused by work
Sexual division of labour stabilises personalities

Question 10

Alternate Name for Parson’s Theory

Answer 10

Warm bath theory