Key Studies: Family Diversity

Question 1

Fletcher (1966)

Answer 1

Fletcher (1966): The introduction of the welfare state has helped the family to perform its functions more effectively, in particular education, housing and health care.

Question 2

Murray (1984)

Answer 2

Murray (1984): The welfare state offers perverse incentives for families not to work, they then become a drain on society.

Question 3

Leonard (1978)

Answer 3

Leonard (1978): Social policies reinforce the gender stereotypes and act as a form of control over women. For example maternity benefits are structured in a way that makes it easier for the woman to carry out the care for the infant therefor reinforcing this role