Lesson 6 - Functionalism And The Family

Question 1

Murdock functions (4 functions) of the family

Answer 1

-stable sex drive satisfaction
-reproduction of next generation
-socialisation of the young
-economic and physical support

Question 2

Parsons theory - two essential needs that the nuclear family support

Answer 2

-geographically mobile workforce - move home for jobs
-socially mobile workforce - status is achieved

Question 3

Parsons - two essential functions of the family

Answer 3

-primary socialisation of children - basic skills and values
-stabilisation of adult personalities - relieve tensions - “warm bath theory”

Question 4

Criticisms of Murdock

Answer 4

-functions can be done by other institutions
-fails to consider other applicable family types that meet needs
-ignores dark side of family
-feminists - family oppresses women
-Marxists - meet the needs of capitalism not family members

Question 5

Criticisms of parsons

Answer 5

-nuclear family existed before Industrial Revolution
-extended families continues as life was so uncertain and people benefited from ties
-extended families still exists especially in diff cultures
-other social changes lead to nuclear family occurring more