what effect has social policy had on the family?

Question 1

social policy

Answer 1

• aims to address problems within society
• includes: health, education, housing, protection of children, childcare

Question 2

1969 Divorce Act (&1984)

Answer 2

• previously, one partner had to prove the other was at fault
• after, there could be a divorce if the relationship reached the stage of ‘irretrievable breakdown’, however, if only one partner wanted a divorce, they required a 5 year waiting period after marriage
• in 1984 this was changed so that divorce could be granted within 1 year of marriage

Question 3

Theoretical views on social policy: functionalist

Answer 3

• creates a stable family
• policy should benefit whole society
• families fulfil functions

Question 4

Theoretical views on social policy: new right

Answer 4

• dislike state intervention in private matters
• benefits for ‘deviant’ families are too generous
• benefits create a ‘culture of dependency’

Question 5

Theoretical views on social policy: marxist

Answer 5

• social policy serves the interests of capitalism
• policy can make it easy/hard on women depending on workforce requirements
• policies promote obediance and respect

Question 6

Theoretical views on social policy: feminist

Answer 6

• policy promotes particular structures
• against policies that uphold patriarchy
• supportive of policies which support women

Question 7

positive impacts of the NHS on the family (1948)

Answer 7

• takes pressure off of the family unit- no additional cost
• people can easily get the help they need
• children in poorer families become more healthy- however there may be hidden costs like transport

Question 8

positive impacts of the NHS on society (1948)

Answer 8

• more accessible and generally better healthcare
• brings people together as it is popular
• healthy body, healthy mind, people function better as members of society

Question 9

how might the creation of the NHS support functionalist views?

Answer 9

• assume everyone benefits equally
• supports the nuclear family by removing pressure, having healthier children
• increases social solidarity because society becomes healthier as a whole and they are brought together through shared positivie experience

Question 10

Child support Act 1991 aim

Answer 10

• tries to ensure that fathers take personal responsibility for their children in order for them to have a better life
• new right