functionalist perspective on the family Flashcards
What does structural mean?
Society shapes the individual
This implies that societal norms and structures influence personal behavior and identity.
What does consensus mean?
A successful society is based on a value consensus where people agree on a set of shared norms and values
This consensus enables societies to meet basic needs.
What are functional prerequisites?
Basic needs which need to be met in order to survive
These include things like food, shelter, and social stability.
What is the organic analogy?
Parsons argued that society was like the human body, with unique functions that must meet functional prerequisites
If one institution becomes dysfunctional, it impacts the entire system.
What did Murdock study?
Murdock studied 250 societies and found that the nuclear family existed in every one which performed 4 functions
His research highlighted the universality of the nuclear family structure.
What is a nuclear family?
Two generations of a family in one household who perform traditional gender roles
Typically includes parents and their children.
What are the four functions of the family?
- Stable satisfaction of the sex drive
- Reproduction
- Economic needs
- Socialisation
These functions are essential for the stability and continuity of society.
What is Talcott Parsons’ functional fit theory?
As society changes, the type of family changes to fit the needs of society
This theory notes the transition from extended families to nuclear families.
How has the family changed since industrialisation?
- Unit of consumption only
- Loses other functions due to structural differentiation
This reflects a shift in family roles and responsibilities.
What are Parsons’ two functions of the family?
- Primary socialisation
- The stabilisation of adult personalities
These functions help integrate individuals into society.
What is the warm bath theory?
Women have an expressive role and males an instrumental role; the wife’s role relieves the husband’s tension by providing love and understanding
This analogy likens emotional support to a warm bath.
What did Fletcher argue about the family?
The family has not lost its function; it now has to diagnose illness and has increased responsibility due to social services
This perspective asserts that families still play a crucial role in society.
Evaluation of the functionalist perspective:
out of date - most women are also breadwinners
rose tinted glasses
ignores dark side of family - child abuse, domestic abuse etc.
ignores exploitation of women - sexual division of labour
