Lecture 7: Family, Gender and Sexuality

Question 1

Identify alternate family forms

Answer 1

(1) Single-parent families
(2) Cohabiting couples
(3) Divorced and separated couples

Question 2

Explain and critique the Functionalist Perspective on Families

Answer 2

Functionalists view the family unit as:

(1) a construct that fulfils the important functions and keeps society running smoothly and
(2) it is an important institution that reinforces the norms and values of the society.

CRITIQUE

(1) It does not take into consideration the diversified ways people live together in the modern world.
(2) It fails to acknowledge that families can be extremely dysfunctional - family that is not operating according to society’s expectations and is seen to disrupt social cohesion and the smooth organisation of society.

Question 3

What are the essential functions of family for society?

Answer 3

1. Promotes procreation (regulate sex)
   - Teaches and passes down the norms governing with whom and how often a person should have sex.
2. Physical care/Emotional (kids from 0-3 years)
   - Provides members with food, clothing, shelter and other essentials.
   - Support members with love, comfort, help in times of emotional distress, and other types of intangible support that they need.
3. Socialisation (Kids from 3 onwards)
   - It is not possible for a society to function smoothly without adequate socialisation of its young; the family is the primary unit for socialising children.
4. Identity
   - Social identity is important for one’s life chances.