Theories Flashcards
What does the functionalist perspective on the family emphasize?
Society is based on value consensus, with family as a sub-system performing essential functions.
According to Murdock, what are the four essential functions of the family?
- Stable satisfaction of the sex drive with the same partner
- Reproduction of the next generation
- Socialisation of the young into value consensus
- Meeting economic needs such as food and shelter
What is Parsons’ ‘functional fit’ theory?
The functions performed by the family depend on the type of society, affecting the family structure.
In which type of society is the nuclear family more prevalent?
Industrial society.
What are the two needs that the nuclear family adapts to in an industrial society?
- A geographically mobile workforce
- A socially mobile workforce
What does the Marxist perspective argue about the family?
The family maintains inequality and fulfills functions for capitalism.
What is one function of the family according to Marxists regarding property?
Inheritance of property, leading to a patriarchal monogamous nuclear family.
What do liberal feminists believe regarding women’s oppression?
Oppression is being gradually overcome through changing laws, moving towards greater equality.
According to radical feminism, what is the view on men and the family?
Men are the enemy, and the family is a key institution of patriarchy that must be abolished.
What does difference feminism emphasize?
The varied experiences of women, acknowledging that the black family can be a source of support against racism.
What is the focus of the personal life perspective on families?
The meanings individuals give to relationships, considering a wider view beyond traditional family ties.
What issue do donor-conceived children face according to Norquist and Smart?
They may experience complex feelings about their genetic and social relationships.
What critique do other sociologists have regarding Murdock’s view of the nuclear family?
Murdock’s approach is seen as ‘rose-tinted’ and neglects conflict and exploitation.
How do Marxists critique Parsons’ view of the family?
They argue it ignores how the family structure benefits capitalism.
What is the postmodernist critique of the family structure?
The nuclear family is not relevant to today’s post-Fordist society.
What does Sue Palmer argue about marketisation and childhood?
Marketisation creates toxic childhoods.
What is one criticism of liberal feminism by other feminists?
It does not challenge existing structures and may overlook similar experiences of women.
True or False: Functionalists believe the family serves only the needs of the family itself.
False
Fill in the blank: The family is often viewed as a _______ institution in radical feminism.
patriarchal
What does the personal life perspective challenge regarding family definitions?
It raises questions about what counts as family beyond traditional definitions.
