Theories of the Family - Feminist Perspective on the Family Flashcards
What do feminists view the family as serving?
Serving the needs of a patriarchal society
Patriarchal society
Male-dominated society
What does feminist research focus on in the family? (3)
Housework arrangements
Domestic violence
The power relationship
What does feminism examine?
The contribution of women’s role in the family to the economy
Three different branches of feminism
Liberal
Marxist
Radical
What do all the branches of feminism fundamentally agree about the family?
That the family is oppressive towards the exploitation of women
What type of family are feminists critical of?
Nuclear family
What do almost all feminists agree that?
Gender is socially constructed and gender roles are learnt rather than biological
Liberal feminist view of family
Believe in a ‘March of progress’ view
‘March of progress’
Belief that the family is gradually changing for the better over time by coming more democratic and equal
What do liberal feminists argue that evidence shows? (3)
Men are doing greater share of domestic labour
Decision making is coming more equal
Boys and girls are socialised in similar ways
What do liberal feminists see adult relationships as?
Less patriarchal than those in 1950s
What does Somerville (liberal feminist) suggest?
Proposals to improve family life for women that involve modest policy reforms than revolutionary change
What does Somerville (liberal) believe that many feminists have failed to do?
Failed to acknowledge process for women
What does Somerville (liberal) believe has helped to create greater equality within relationships?
Increased choice for women and rose of dual-earner households
What evidence does Somerville (liberal) believe shows heterosexual families will not disappear?
High figures for remarriage suggesting high need for intimacy and compassion
What does Somerville (liberal) believe feminists need to focus on?
Policies which will encourage greater equality within relationships
What is Somerville’s work based on?
Secondary analysis of previous works - not backed up by empirical evidence
How do radical feminists criticise Somerville (liberal)?
Argue she fails to deal with patriarchal structures and culture in modern family life
What do Marxists acknowledge?
Women are exploited in marriage and family life
What do Marxists emphasise?
Relationship between capitalism and the family