functionalist perspectives on the family Flashcards
what are the four main functions of the family?
1) sexual regulations
2) reproduction
3) economic cooperation
4) socialisation
how does sexual regulations benefit society?
it reduces sexual disorder
how does reproduction benefit society?
1) it grows the population
2) families help to create the next generation of society
how does socialisation benefit society?
families carry out primary socialisation, so norms and values, social consensus and social order can be passed on
how does sexual regulations benefit individuals?
it can stabilise sexual relationships
how can reproduction benefit individuals?
it allows them to have and grow a family of their own
how does socialisation benefit individuals?
individuals will know norms and values and fit into society
how does economic regulations benefit individuals?
needs, such as food and housing, are met
how does economic cooperation benefit society?
creates social order
what family types are excluded from Murdock’s definition of a family?
1) same sex couples
2) extended families
3) co parents
4) co habitation
5) single parents
what is a household?
a group of people who share a common residence and who may or may not be related
why do people criticise Murdock for his definition on family?
1) its outdated
2) people can live in communes
3) traditional structures disadvantage women
4) he fails to explore alternatives to the nuclear family
