Social Policies - Effect On The Family (sociologists)

Question 1

What did Fletcher argue?

Answer 1

Policies like child benefit, the welfare state, and free healthcare (e.g., NHS) were seen as beneficial, as they helped families meet their needs.
(Functionalist)

Question 2

What did Dozelot argue?

Answer 2

Child protection policies (e.g., Children Act 1989) and parenting support programs were seen as tools of social control, regulating family life.
(conflict theory)

Question 3

What did Leonard argue?

Answer 3

Maternity leave and childcare policies reinforced traditional gender roles by encouraging women to stay home or take responsibility for childcare.
(feminist)

Question 4

What did Drew and Murray argue?

Answer 4

Welfare-to-work policies and cuts to welfare benefits could place stress on families, particularly lower-income ones, exacerbating hardship.
(poststructuralism)

Question 5

What did Murray argue?

Answer 5

Welfare benefits for single parents were viewed as encouraging dependency and family breakdown, contributing to the rise of the “underclass.”
(New Right)