Functionalism Flashcards
What is the functional fit theory?
Parsons argues that the role of family depends on the kind of society which it is found and the functions that the family performs will affect its structure
Why do the nuclear family fit an industrial economy?
They are geographically mobile
They are socially mobile
What does geographically mobile mean?
Easier to move around nuclear family rather than extended family
What does socially mobile mean?
People gained their status through their own effort and ability, not their background
What is the role of family?
Primary socialisation
Economic
Reproduction
Sexual regulation
Ao1 for primary socialisation
Parsons states primary socialisation is that the family teaches the basic norms and values of society which enables children to cooperate into society
An example of this is parent teaching children manners, which helps them communicate with others
In the traditional nuclear family, the mother performs the expressive role and is responsible for carrying out this function as they are naturally suited towards it
Ao3 primary socialisation
Feminist argue that we are socialised into the norms and values of patriarchy
For example, children are taught that Dad is the head of the family this prepares them for the male dominated society
From an interpretivist point of view, functionalist tend to neglect the meanings families have for individuals and how family members Interpret family relationships meaning it is too deterministic
Ao1 economic
Murdock states the family works as a unit in order to meet the basic economic needs of all its members
In the traditional nuclear, the man would act as the breadwinner playing the instrumental role and this involves paid work in order to provide family, food and shelter.
Parsons also argues that the family is responsible for the stabilisation of adult personalities this is the idea that the family is a place where adults can relax, and that the family gives the individual, a safety valve, a place where they can relax, escape the strain of the world, and feel emotionally secure
A03 economic
Marxists criticise this as rose tinted they argue that the family serves capitalism through this function. For example, when the family makes purchases like the family car capitalism makes profits.
Feminists argued that functionalist ignore the dark side of the family this is conflict between the husband and wife, child abuse and so on
Ao1 reproduction
Murdock argues that the family has a key role in reproducing the next generation
In order for society to continue, it needs more members. Therefore the family is important because through marriage and child bearing it creates new members.
Ao3 reproduction
Post-modernists argue that this view of the traditional nuclear families is outdated
Childbearing is now a matter of choice for example sperm donor babies
No longer requires traditional nuclear family as functionalists suggests
Ao1 sexual regulation
Murdock argues that the role of the family is to satisfy the adult sex drive in a stable manner
This means that in monogamous marriage each partner has access to sex
This prevents the social destruction that would be caused if there was a sexual ‘free for all’
Ao3 sexual regulation
Marxist argued that this function serves capitalism
Monogamy developed as capitalism did, so that capitalist should ensure that their properties stayed within the family
