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1
Q

In the 1940s and 1950s, the dominant perspective in sociology was functionalism.
Functionalists argued that there was a fit between the needs of industrial societies like the US and the UK and the institution of the nuclear family.
For example, what did the American sociologist who (what year) argue?

A

For example, the American sociologist William Goode (1963) argued that as societies went through a process of industrialisation, they tended to adopt the nuclear family pattern

2
Q

While functionalists portrayed the nuclear family in favourable terms, much more critical approaches based on Marxism and feminism began to influence the way sociologists looked at the nuclear family from when?

A

While functionalists portrayed the nuclear family in favourable terms, much more critical approaches based on Marxism and feminism began to influence the way sociologists looked at the nuclear family from the 1970s onwards

3
Q

Functionalists always ask about the what of an institution?

A

Functionalists always ask about the:
1. Purpose
2. Function
of an institution

4
Q

Functionalists always ask about the purpose and the function of an institution.
Example

A

For example:

  1. What good does it do for society?
  2. How does it help to maintain order and value consensus (agreement or harmony)
5
Q

Functionalists always ask about the purpose and the function of an institution.
For example, what good does it do for society and how does it help to maintain order and value consensus (agreement or harmony)?
How can institutions help prevent anomie?

A

Institutions can help prevent anomie through primary socialisation

6
Q

Functionalists always ask about the purpose and the function of an institution.
For example, what good does it do for society and how does it help to maintain order and value consensus (agreement or harmony)?
Institutions can help prevent anomie through primary socialisation.
How can institutions help to maintain order and value consensus (agreement or harmony)?

A

Institutions can help to maintain:
1. Order
2. Value consensus (agreement or harmony)
by informal social control

7
Q

Functionalists always ask about the purpose and the function of an institution.
For example, what good does it do for society and how does it help to maintain order and value consensus (agreement or harmony)?
Institutions can help prevent anomie through primary socialisation.
Institutions can help to maintain order and value consensus (agreement or harmony) by informal social control.
Functionalists are interested in the what functions of society?

A

Functionalists are interested in the positive functions of society

8
Q

Functionalists always ask about the purpose and the function of an institution.
For example, what good does it do for society and how does it help to maintain order and value consensus (agreement or harmony)?
Institutions can help prevent anomie through primary socialisation.
Institutions can help to maintain order and value consensus (agreement or harmony) by informal social control.
Functionalists are interested in the positive functions of society.
Example

A

For example, how does it contribute to a healthy society?

9
Q

Who are 2 key functionalists?

A

2 key functionalists are:

  1. George Murdock
  2. Talcott Parsons
10
Q
George Murdock (1949) carried out a survey of 250 societies from which he concluded that some kind of family was found in every human society.
Murdock argued that this was based on 2 opposite-sex parents and their own or adopted children - a nuclear family.
However, Murdock acknowledged that in many societies, family units included other kin, such as what?
A

Murdock acknowledged that in many societies, family units included other kin, such as:

  1. Vertically extended families
  2. Horizontally extended families
11
Q
George Murdock (1949) carried out a survey of 250 societies from which he concluded that some kind of family was found in every human society.
Murdock argued that this was based on 2 opposite-sex parents and their own or adopted children - a nuclear family.
However, Murdock acknowledged that in many societies, family units included other kin, such as vertically extended families, including who, and horizontally extended families?
A

Murdock acknowledged that in many societies, family units included other kin, such as:

  1. Vertically extended families, including grandparents
  2. Horizontally extended families
12
Q
George Murdock (1949) carried out a survey of 250 societies from which he concluded that some kind of family was found in every human society.
Murdock argued that this was based on 2 opposite-sex parents and their own or adopted children - a nuclear family.
However, Murdock acknowledged that in many societies, family units included other kin, such as vertically extended families, including grandparents, and horizontally extended families, where brothers (or less frequently sisters) did what?
A

Murdock acknowledged that in many societies, family units included other kin, such as:

  1. Vertically extended families, including grandparents
  2. Horizontally extended families, where brothers (or less frequently sisters) formed households with their partners and children
13
Q

Murdock suggested that the universal nature of the nuclear family (or units based on it) was for good reasons.
Murdock argued that the family performs what in all societies and that what is best equipped to carry these out?

A

Murdock argued that:

  1. The family performs 4 essential functions in all societies
  2. The nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out
14
Q

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
What are Murdock’s 4 functions?

A

Murdock’s 4 functions are:

  1. Sexual function
  2. Reproduction of the next generation
  3. Education of the young
  4. Economic function
15
Q

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Sexual function:
This reinforces the idea of monogamy.
What is this?

A

This is stable satisfaction of the sex drive with the same partner

16
Q

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Sexual function:
This reinforces the idea of monogamy.
This is stable satisfaction of the sex drive with the same partner.
There shouldn’t be what, only monogamy?

A

There shouldn’t be polygamy, only monogamy

17
Q

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Sexual function:
This reinforces the idea of monogamy.
This is stable satisfaction of the sex drive with the same partner.
There shouldn’t be polygamy, only monogamy and no what?

A

There shouldn’t be polygamy, only monogamy and no ‘sleeping around’

18
Q

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Sexual function:
This reinforces the idea of monogamy.
This is stable satisfaction of the sex drive with the same partner.
There shouldn’t be polygamy, only monogamy and no ‘sleeping around.’
What do most societies encourage people to do?

A

Most societies encourage people to channel their sex drives into socially acceptable relationships such as marriage

19
Q

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Sexual function:
This reinforces the idea of monogamy.
This is stable satisfaction of the sex drive with the same partner.
There shouldn’t be polygamy, only monogamy and no ‘sleeping around.’
Most societies encourage people to channel their sex drives into socially acceptable relationships such as marriage.
How does this help society?

A

This helps society by preventing social disruption caused by sexual ‘free for alls’

20
Q

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Sexual function:
This reinforces the idea of monogamy.
This is stable satisfaction of the sex drive with the same partner.
There shouldn’t be polygamy, only monogamy and no ‘sleeping around.’
Most societies encourage people to channel their sex drives into socially acceptable relationships such as marriage.
This helps society by preventing social disruption caused by sexual ‘free for alls.’
This prevents what and ensures that children are raised by who?

A

This:

  1. Prevents affairs
  2. Ensures that children are raised by their natural parents
21
Q

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Sexual function:
This reinforces the idea of monogamy.
This is stable satisfaction of the sex drive with the same partner.
There shouldn’t be polygamy, only monogamy and no ‘sleeping around.’
Most societies encourage people to channel their sex drives into socially acceptable relationships such as marriage.
This helps society by preventing social disruption caused by sexual ‘free for alls.’
This prevents affairs and ensures that children are raised by their natural parents.

AO3:
In Islamic culture, men can have up to 4 wives.
Another example is that in the Nayar culture, what did Mead find?

A

Another example is that in the Nayar culture, Mead found that polygamous relationships were also the norm

22
Q

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Reproduction of the next generation:
The family is the main unit within which what happens?

A

The family is the main unit within which children are reproduced

23
Q

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Reproduction of the next generation:
The family is the main unit within which children are reproduced.
Without this, what would happen?

A

Without this, society would cease to exist

24
Q

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Reproduction of the next generation:
The family is the main unit within which children are reproduced.
Without this, society would cease to exist.
Mothers and babies are more likely to survive, if fathers are what?

A

Mothers and babies are more likely to survive, if fathers are on hand to:
1. Protect
2. Provide
for them

25
Q

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Education of the young:
What does Murdock see the family as responsible for?

A

Murdock sees the family as responsible for primary socialisation

26
Q

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Education of the young:
Murdock sees the family as responsible for primary socialisation.
What does the family teach children?

A

The family teaches children:

  1. Norms
  2. Values
27
Q

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Education of the young:
Murdock sees the family as responsible for primary socialisation.
The family teaches children norms and values to prevent what?

A

The family teaches children:
1. Norms
2. Values
to prevent anomie (Durkheim, another functionalist)

28
Q

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Education of the young:
Murdock sees the family as responsible for primary socialisation.
The family teaches children norms and values to prevent anomie (Durkheim, another functionalist).
How do individuals benefit?

A

Individuals benefit by growing up to be well-balanced individuals who can fit into society

29
Q

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Education of the young:
Murdock sees the family as responsible for primary socialisation.
The family teaches children norms and values to prevent anomie (Durkheim, another functionalist).
Individuals benefit by growing up to be well-balanced individuals who can fit into society, which helps to ensure a society where there is what?

A

Individuals benefit by growing up to be well-balanced individuals who can fit into society, which helps to ensure a society where there is consensus about social norms

30
Q

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Education of the young:
Murdock sees the family as responsible for primary socialisation.
The family teaches children norms and values to prevent anomie (Durkheim, another functionalist).
Individuals benefit by growing up to be well-balanced individuals who can fit into society, which helps to ensure a society where there is consensus about social norms, creating what?

A

Individuals benefit by growing up to be well-balanced individuals who can fit into society, which helps to ensure a society where there is consensus about social norms, creating a stable social system

31
Q

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Education of the young:
Murdock sees the family as responsible for primary socialisation.
The family teaches children norms and values to prevent anomie (Durkheim, another functionalist).
Individuals benefit by growing up to be well-balanced individuals who can fit into society, which helps to ensure a society where there is consensus about social norms, creating a stable social system.

AO3:
Now what are grandparents doing?

A

Now grandparents are socialisation their grandchildren

32
Q

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Education of the young:
Murdock sees the family as responsible for primary socialisation.
The family teaches children norms and values to prevent anomie (Durkheim, another functionalist).
Individuals benefit by growing up to be well-balanced individuals who can fit into society, which helps to ensure a society where there is consensus about social norms, creating a stable social system.

AO3:
Now grandparents are socialisation their grandchildren, instead of who?

A

Now grandparents are socialisation their grandchildren, instead of their parents

33
Q

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Economic function:
This is meeting what?

A

This is meeting its members’ economic needs

34
Q

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Economic function:
This is meeting its members’ economic needs, such as what?

A

This is meeting its members’ economic needs, such as:

  1. Food
  2. Shelter
35
Q

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Economic function:
This is meeting its members’ economic needs, such as food and shelter.
In Western societies such as Britain, how do most families act as units of consumption?

A

In Western societies such as Britain, most families act as units of consumption, buying:
1. Goods
2. Services
for their members

36
Q

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Economic function:
This is meeting its members’ economic needs, such as food and shelter.
In Western societies such as Britain, most families act as units of consumption, buying goods and services for their members.
Individuals benefit by having their needs looked after and how does society benefit?

A

Individuals benefit by having their needs looked after and society benefits from the economic contribution made by families

37
Q

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Economic function:
This is meeting its members’ economic needs, such as food and shelter.
In Western societies such as Britain, most families act as units of consumption, buying goods and services for their members.
Individuals benefit by having their needs looked after and society benefits from the economic contribution made by families.
What will the man of the family do?

A

The man of the family will go out to work

38
Q

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Economic function:
This is meeting its members’ economic needs, such as food and shelter.
In Western societies such as Britain, most families act as units of consumption, buying goods and services for their members.
Individuals benefit by having their needs looked after and society benefits from the economic contribution made by families.
The man of the family will go out to work and what will the woman do?

A

The man of the family will go out to work and the woman will look after the home

39
Q

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Economic function:
This is meeting its members’ economic needs, such as food and shelter.
In Western societies such as Britain, most families act as units of consumption, buying goods and services for their members.
Individuals benefit by having their needs looked after and society benefits from the economic contribution made by families.
The man of the family will go out to work and the woman will look after the home.
The father will be the breadwinner and what will the mother be?

A

The father will be the breadwinner and the mother will be the nurturer

40
Q

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Economic function:
This is meeting its members’ economic needs, such as food and shelter.
In Western societies such as Britain, most families act as units of consumption, buying goods and services for their members.
Individuals benefit by having their needs looked after and society benefits from the economic contribution made by families.
The man of the family will go out to work and the woman will look after the home.
The father will be the breadwinner and the mother will be the nurturer.

AO3:
There is a increase in what, where males are not the breadwinners and more women are working?

A

There is a increase in house husbands, where:

  1. Males are not the breadwinners
  2. More women are working
41
Q

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Criticisms of Murdock:
1. What do Marxists and feminists (conflict theories) reject?

A
  1. Marxists
  2. Feminists
    (conflict theories)
    reject his ‘rose-tinted,’ harmonious consensus view
42
Q

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Criticisms of Murdock:
1. Marxists and feminists (conflict theories) reject his ‘rose-tinted,’ harmonious consensus view.
2. What do feminists see the family as doing?

A

Feminists see the family as:

  1. Serving the needs of men
  2. Oppressing women
43
Q

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Criticisms of Murdock:
1. Marxists and feminists (conflict theories) reject his ‘rose-tinted,’ harmonious consensus view.
2. Feminists see the family as serving the needs of men and oppressing women.
Example

A

For example:

  1. There is domestic violence and abuse within families
  2. Rich talks about compulsory heterosexuality
44
Q

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Criticisms of Murdock:
1. Marxists and feminists (conflict theories) reject his ‘rose-tinted,’ harmonious consensus view.
2. Feminists see the family as serving the needs of men and oppressing women.
For example, there is domestic violence and abuse within families and Rich talks about compulsory heterosexuality.
Functionalists suggest that the family is what and fail to acknowledge the dark side of the family?

A

Functionalists:

  1. Suggest that the family is ‘perfect’
  2. Fail to acknowledge the dark side of the family
45
Q

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Criticisms of Murdock:
1. Marxists and feminists (conflict theories) reject his ‘rose-tinted,’ harmonious consensus view.
2. Feminists see the family as serving the needs of men and oppressing women.
For example, there is domestic violence and abuse within families and Rich talks about compulsory heterosexuality.
Functionalists suggest that the family is ‘perfect’ and fail to acknowledge the dark side of the family.
3. Who re-examined Murdock’s data and found that he ignored societies where the gender roles were reversed (the woman was the breadwinner)?

A

Ann Oakley:

  1. Re-examined Murdock’s data
  2. Found that he ignored societies where the gender roles were reversed (the woman was the breadwinner)?
46
Q

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Criticisms of Murdock:
1. Marxists and feminists (conflict theories) reject his ‘rose-tinted,’ harmonious consensus view.
2. Feminists see the family as serving the needs of men and oppressing women.
For example, there is domestic violence and abuse within families and Rich talks about compulsory heterosexuality.
Functionalists suggest that the family is ‘perfect’ and fail to acknowledge the dark side of the family.
3. Ann Oakley re-examined Murdock’s data and found that he ignored societies where the gender roles were reversed (the woman was the breadwinner).
What supports this?

A

Mead’s findings of tribal societies supports this

47
Q

Murdock argued that the family performs 4 essential functions in all societies and that the nuclear family is best equipped to carry these out.
Murdock’s 4 functions are sexual function, reproduction of the next generation, education of the young and economic function.
Criticisms of Murdock:
1. Marxists and feminists (conflict theories) reject his ‘rose-tinted,’ harmonious consensus view.
2. Feminists see the family as serving the needs of men and oppressing women.
For example, there is domestic violence and abuse within families and Rich talks about compulsory heterosexuality.
Functionalists suggest that the family is ‘perfect’ and fail to acknowledge the dark side of the family.
3. Ann Oakley re-examined Murdock’s data and found that he ignored societies where the gender roles were reversed (the woman was the breadwinner).
Mead’s findings of tribal societies supports this.
4. What do Marxists argue about Murdock’s 4 functions?

A

Marxists argue that Murdock’s 4 functions meets:

  1. The needs of capitalism
  2. Not the needs of family members or society as a whole
48
Q

What have modern day families done due to industrialisation?

A
Modern day families have lost their old functions from:
1. Murdock's 4 functions
to
2. 2
due to industrialisation
49
Q

Modern day families have lost their old functions from Murdock’s 4 functions to 2 due to industrialisation.
Who argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform?

A

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform

50
Q

Modern day families have lost their old functions from Murdock’s 4 functions to 2 due to industrialisation.
Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
What are Parsons’ 2 functions?

A

Parsons’ 2 functions are:

  1. The primary socialisation of children (social control)
  2. The stabilisation of adult personalities
51
Q

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
The primary socialisation of children (social control):
It remains essential that children receive their primary socialisation from who?

A

It remains essential that children receive their primary socialisation from their parents

52
Q

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
The primary socialisation of children (social control):
It remains essential that children receive their primary socialisation from their parents.
Parsons (1955) argued that families are what?

A

Parsons (1955) argued that families are personality factories

53
Q

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
The primary socialisation of children (social control):
It remains essential that children receive their primary socialisation from their parents.
Parsons (1955) argued that families are personality factories, producing children who what?

A

Parsons (1955) argued that families are personality factories, producing children who:

  1. Are committed to shared norms and values
  2. Have a strong sense of belonging to the society
54
Q

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
The primary socialisation of children (social control):
It remains essential that children receive their primary socialisation from their parents.
Parsons (1955) argued that families are personality factories, producing children who are committed to shared norms and values and who have a strong sense of belonging to the society.
What is the family therefore central to?

A

The family is therefore central to the creation of:

  1. Value consensus
  2. Social integration
  3. Social order
55
Q

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
The primary socialisation of children (social control):
It remains essential that children receive their primary socialisation from their parents.
Parsons (1955) argued that families are personality factories, producing children who are committed to shared norms and values and who have a strong sense of belonging to the society.
The family is therefore central to the creation of value consensus, social integration and social order.
Parsons believed that only the family as a social institution was capable of the what required for successful socialisation into society’s norms and values?

A

Parsons believed that only the family as a social institution was capable of the:
1. Warmth
2. Security
3. Mutual support
required for successful socialisation into society’s norms and values

56
Q

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
The primary socialisation of children (social control):
It remains essential that children receive their primary socialisation from their parents.
Parsons (1955) argued that families are personality factories, producing children who are committed to shared norms and values and who have a strong sense of belonging to the society.
The family is therefore central to the creation of value consensus, social integration and social order.
Parsons believed that only the family as a social institution was capable of the warmth, security and mutual support required for successful socialisation into society’s norms and values.
While the family is important in primary socialisation, Parsons sees it as having a reduced role where?

A

While the family is important in primary socialisation, Parsons sees it as having a reduced role in secondary socialisation

57
Q

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
The primary socialisation of children (social control):
It remains essential that children receive their primary socialisation from their parents.
Parsons (1955) argued that families are personality factories, producing children who are committed to shared norms and values and who have a strong sense of belonging to the society.
The family is therefore central to the creation of value consensus, social integration and social order.
Parsons believed that only the family as a social institution was capable of the warmth, security and mutual support required for successful socialisation into society’s norms and values.
While the family is important in primary socialisation, Parsons sees it as having a reduced role in secondary socialisation, where other agencies of socialisation such as schools and peer groups have a what?

A

While the family is important in primary socialisation, Parsons sees it as having a reduced role in secondary socialisation, where other agencies of socialisation such as:
1. Schools
2. Peer groups
have a greater responsibility

58
Q

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
The primary socialisation of children (social control):
It remains essential that children receive their primary socialisation from their parents.
Parsons (1955) argued that families are personality factories, producing children who are committed to shared norms and values and who have a strong sense of belonging to the society.
The family is therefore central to the creation of value consensus, social integration and social order.
Parsons believed that only the family as a social institution was capable of the warmth, security and mutual support required for successful socialisation into society’s norms and values.
While the family is important in primary socialisation, Parsons sees it as having a reduced role in secondary socialisation, where other agencies of socialisation such as schools and peer groups have a greater responsibility.
The family is an important agent of social control and constantly polices society’s members to maintain value consensus and social order.
What does primary socialisation cause children to develop that teaches them the difference between ‘right’ and ‘wrong?’

A

Primary socialisation causes children to develop a conscience that teaches them the difference between:

  1. ‘Right’
  2. ‘Wrong’
59
Q

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
The primary socialisation of children (social control):
It remains essential that children receive their primary socialisation from their parents.
Parsons (1955) argued that families are personality factories, producing children who are committed to shared norms and values and who have a strong sense of belonging to the society.
The family is therefore central to the creation of value consensus, social integration and social order.
Parsons believed that only the family as a social institution was capable of the warmth, security and mutual support required for successful socialisation into society’s norms and values.
While the family is important in primary socialisation, Parsons sees it as having a reduced role in secondary socialisation, where other agencies of socialisation such as schools and peer groups have a greater responsibility.
The family is an important agent of social control and constantly polices society’s members to maintain value consensus and social order.
Primary socialisation causes children to develop a conscience that teaches them the difference between ‘right’ and ‘wrong.’
How is this reinforced?

A

This is reinforced through sanctions

60
Q

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
The primary socialisation of children (social control):
It remains essential that children receive their primary socialisation from their parents.
Parsons (1955) argued that families are personality factories, producing children who are committed to shared norms and values and who have a strong sense of belonging to the society.
The family is therefore central to the creation of value consensus, social integration and social order.
Parsons believed that only the family as a social institution was capable of the warmth, security and mutual support required for successful socialisation into society’s norms and values.
While the family is important in primary socialisation, Parsons sees it as having a reduced role in secondary socialisation, where other agencies of socialisation such as schools and peer groups have a greater responsibility.
The family is an important agent of social control and constantly polices society’s members to maintain value consensus and social order.
Primary socialisation causes children to develop a conscience that teaches them the difference between ‘right’ and ‘wrong.’
This is reinforced through sanctions, for example what?

A

This is reinforced through sanctions, for example:

  1. Rewards
  2. Punishments
61
Q

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
The stabilisation of adult personalities:
What does Parsons’ warm bath theory argue?

A

Parsons’ warm bath theory argues that the family functions relieve stress of modern day living

62
Q

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
The stabilisation of adult personalities:
Parsons’ warm bath theory argues that the family functions relieve stress of modern day living.
How does family life and home ‘stabilise’ adult personalities?

A

Family life and home ‘stabilises’ adult personalities by providing workers with:
1. A relaxing environment
2. Unconditional love
as compensation for the stress created by the competitive nature of economic life

63
Q

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
The stabilisation of adult personalities:
Parsons’ warm bath theory argues that the family functions relieve stress of modern day living.
Family and home ‘stabilises’ adult personalities by providing workers with a relaxing environment and unconditional love as compensation for the stress created by the competitive nature of economic life.
The family act as a warm bath, doing what?

A

The family act as a warm bath:

  1. Soothing your worries
  2. Making you feel calm
64
Q

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
The stabilisation of adult personalities:
Parsons’ warm bath theory argues that the family functions relieve stress of modern day living.
Family and home ‘stabilises’ adult personalities by providing workers with a relaxing environment and unconditional love as compensation for the stress created by the competitive nature of economic life.
The family act as a warm bath, soothing your worries and making you feel calm, therefore doing what?

A

The family act as a warm bath:
1. Soothing your worries
2. Making you feel calm
,therefore maintaining a harmonious society

65
Q

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
The stabilisation of adult personalities:
Parsons’ warm bath theory argues that the family functions relieve stress of modern day living.
Family and home ‘stabilises’ adult personalities by providing workers with a relaxing environment and unconditional love as compensation for the stress created by the competitive nature of economic life.
The family act as a warm bath, soothing your worries and making you feel calm, therefore maintaining a harmonious society.
How do parents also benefit from their relationships with their children, for example?

A

Parents also benefit from their relationships with their children by being able to act out childish aspects of their personalities when playing with their children, for example

66
Q

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
The stabilisation of adult personalities:
Parsons’ warm bath theory argues that the family functions relieve stress of modern day living.
Family and home ‘stabilises’ adult personalities by providing workers with a relaxing environment and unconditional love as compensation for the stress created by the competitive nature of economic life.
The family act as a warm bath, soothing your worries and making you feel calm, therefore maintaining a harmonious society.
Parents also benefit from their relationships with their children by being able to act out childish aspects of their personalities when playing with their children, for example.
The nuclear family therefore provides a safe haven for adults and children from what?

A

The nuclear family therefore provides a safe haven for:
1. Adults
2. Children
from the pressures of wider society

67
Q

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
The stabilisation of adult personalities:
Parsons’ warm bath theory argues that the family functions relieve stress of modern day living.
Family and home ‘stabilises’ adult personalities by providing workers with a relaxing environment and unconditional love as compensation for the stress created by the competitive nature of economic life.
The family act as a warm bath, soothing your worries and making you feel calm, therefore maintaining a harmonious society.
Parents also benefit from their relationships with their children by being able to act out childish aspects of their personalities when playing with their children, for example.
The nuclear family therefore provides a safe haven for adults and children from the pressures of wider society.
It is also important for the married couple to rely on each other for emotional support, why?

A

It is also important for the married couple to rely on each other for emotional support, because of the absence of extended kin

68
Q

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
The stabilisation of adult personalities:
Parsons’ warm bath theory argues that the family functions relieve stress of modern day living.
Family and home ‘stabilises’ adult personalities by providing workers with a relaxing environment and unconditional love as compensation for the stress created by the competitive nature of economic life.
The family act as a warm bath, soothing your worries and making you feel calm, therefore maintaining a harmonious society.
Parents also benefit from their relationships with their children by being able to act out childish aspects of their personalities when playing with their children, for example.
The nuclear family therefore provides a safe haven for adults and children from the pressures of wider society.
It is also important for the married couple to rely on each other for emotional support, because of the absence of extended kin.
Why did Parsons believe that the stabilisation function was especially important?

A

Parsons believed that the stabilisation function was especially important, because unstable personalities have a disruptive effect on the effective running of society

69
Q

Does the family always reduce stress for its members?

What would Postmodernists say?

A

Postmodernists would say that the family members are limited in terms of:

  1. Freedom
  2. Choice
70
Q

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
Parsons argues that a lone-parent family cannot adequately perform these 2 functions.
I do not agree with this view, why?

A

I do not agree with this view, because lone-parent families can still provide the same items of comfort

71
Q

Who (what year) takes a more developed approach and a neo-functionalist view?

A

Popenoe (1996) takes:

  1. A more developed approach
  2. A neo-functionalist view
72
Q

Popenoe (1996) takes a more developed approach and a neo-functionalist view.
Popenoe, like Murdock, argues that there are what that underline the way that families are organised?

A

Popenoe, like Murdock, argues that there are biological:
1. Imperatives
Or,
2. Necessities
that underline the way that families are organised

73
Q

Popenoe (1996) takes a more developed approach and a neo-functionalist view.
Popenoe, like Murdock, argues that there are biological imperatives or necessities that underline the way that families are organised.
Example

A

For example, Popenoe suggests that:
1. Men
2. Women
are biologically different so that women are better suited to nurturing children, especially in their early years

74
Q

Popenoe (1996) takes a more developed approach and a neo-functionalist view.
Popenoe, like Murdock, argues that there are biological imperatives or necessities that underline the way that families are organised.
For example, Popenoe suggests that men and women are biologically different so that women are better suited to nurturing children, especially in their early years.
Who is this supported by?

A

This is supported by:

  1. Wilson
  2. Fox
75
Q

Popenoe (1996) takes a more developed approach and a neo-functionalist view.
Popenoe, like Murdock, argues that there are biological imperatives or necessities that underline the way that families are organised.
For example, Popenoe suggests that men and women are biologically different so that women are better suited to nurturing children, especially in their early years.
This is supported by Wilson and Fox.
What does Popenoe argue that we need?

A

Popenoe argues that we need a new cultural script, a set of guidelines for what families should be like

76
Q

Popenoe (1996) takes a more developed approach and a neo-functionalist view.
Popenoe, like Murdock, argues that there are biological imperatives or necessities that underline the way that families are organised.
For example, Popenoe suggests that men and women are biologically different so that women are better suited to nurturing children, especially in their early years.
This is supported by Wilson and Fox.
Popenoe argues that we need a new cultural script, a set of guidelines for what families should be like, based on what?

A

Popenoe argues that we need a new cultural script, a set of guidelines for what families should be like, based on what he calls ‘biosocial reality’

77
Q

Popenoe (1996) takes a more developed approach and a neo-functionalist view.
Popenoe, like Murdock, argues that there are biological imperatives or necessities that underline the way that families are organised.
For example, Popenoe suggests that men and women are biologically different so that women are better suited to nurturing children, especially in their early years.
This is supported by Wilson and Fox.
Popenoe argues that we need a new cultural script, a set of guidelines for what families should be like, based on what he calls ‘biosocial’ reality.
Like other functionalists, what does Popenoe therefore imply?

A

Like other functionalists, Popenoe therefore implies that some types of families are less functional than others

78
Q

Popenoe (1996) takes a more developed approach and a neo-functionalist view.
Popenoe, like Murdock, argues that there are biological imperatives or necessities that underline the way that families are organised.
For example, Popenoe suggests that men and women are biologically different so that women are better suited to nurturing children, especially in their early years.
This is supported by Wilson and Fox.
Popenoe argues that we need a new cultural script, a set of guidelines for what families should be like, based on what he calls ‘biosocial’ reality.
Like other functionalists, Popenoe therefore implies that some types of families are less functional than others, why?

A

Like other functionalists, Popenoe therefore implies that some types of families are less functional than others, because they are not based on the biological:
1. Abilities
2. Needs
of human beings

79
Q

Popenoe (1996) takes a more developed approach and a neo-functionalist view.
Popenoe, like Murdock, argues that there are biological imperatives or necessities that underline the way that families are organised.
For example, Popenoe suggests that men and women are biologically different so that women are better suited to nurturing children, especially in their early years.
This is supported by Wilson and Fox.
Popenoe argues that we need a new cultural script, a set of guidelines for what families should be like, based on what he calls ‘biosocial’ reality.
Like other functionalists, Popenoe therefore implies that some types of families are less functional than others, because they are not based on the biological abilities and needs of human beings.
Therefore, what?

A

Therefore, children brought up in alternative families are more likely to be damaged by their early childhood experiences

80
Q

Popenoe (1996) takes a more developed approach and a neo-functionalist view.
Popenoe, like Murdock, argues that there are biological imperatives or necessities that underline the way that families are organised.
For example, Popenoe suggests that men and women are biologically different so that women are better suited to nurturing children, especially in their early years.
This is supported by Wilson and Fox.
Popenoe argues that we need a new cultural script, a set of guidelines for what families should be like, based on what he calls ‘biosocial’ reality.
Like other functionalists, Popenoe therefore implies that some types of families are less functional than others, because they are not based on the biological abilities and needs of human beings.
Therefore, children brought up in alternative families are more likely to be damaged by their early childhood experiences.

AO3:
Who is an AO3 critique?

A

Guasp is an AO3 critique

81
Q

How many women and how many men have faced or do face domestic violence?

A
1 in 4 women and 1 in 7 men:
1. Have faced
Or,
2. Do face
domestic violence
82
Q

AO3:
Functionalism strengths:
1. This approach shows how a part of society can work at 2 different levels - Both doing what?

A

This approach shows how a part of society can work at 2 different levels - Both:

  1. Fulfilling the needs of each individual
  2. Meeting the needs of the whole society at the same time
83
Q

AO3:
Functionalism strengths:
1. This approach shows how a part of society can work at 2 different levels - Both fulfilling the needs of each individual and meeting the needs of the whole society at the same time.
2. Functionalism provides a very what view of society - It is very, very positive?

A

Functionalism provides a very harmonious view of society - It is very, very positive

84
Q

AO3:
Functionalism strengths:
1. This approach shows how a part of society can work at 2 different levels - Both fulfilling the needs of each individual and meeting the needs of the whole society at the same time.
2. Functionalism provides a very harmonious view of society - It is very, very positive.
3. Functionalists show how each of the parts of society are what?

A

Functionalists show how each of the parts of society are interrelated

85
Q

AO3:
Functionalism strengths:
1. This approach shows how a part of society can work at 2 different levels - Both fulfilling the needs of each individual and meeting the needs of the whole society at the same time.
2. Functionalism provides a very harmonious view of society - It is very, very positive.
3. Functionalists show how each of the parts of society are interrelated, each contributing to what?

A

Functionalists show how each of the parts of society are interrelated, each contributing to the well-being of the whole society - The organic analogy - Durkheim

86
Q

AO3:
Functionalism strengths:
1. This approach shows how a part of society can work at 2 different levels - Both fulfilling the needs of each individual and meeting the needs of the whole society at the same time.
2. Functionalism provides a very harmonious view of society - It is very, very positive.
3. Functionalists show how each of the parts of society are interrelated, each contributing to the well-being of the whole society - The organic analogy - Durkheim.
4. This approach stresses what?

A

This approach stresses the great importance of the family as the basis of society

87
Q

AO3:
Functionalism strengths:
1. This approach shows how a part of society can work at 2 different levels - Both fulfilling the needs of each individual and meeting the needs of the whole society at the same time.
2. Functionalism provides a very harmonious view of society - It is very, very positive.
3. Functionalists show how each of the parts of society are interrelated, each contributing to the well-being of the whole society - The organic analogy - Durkheim.
4. This approach stresses the great importance of the family as the basis of society.
5. The family is seen as very important in passing on the norms and values that are what in society?

A

The family is seen as very important in passing on the:
1. Norms
2. Values
that are universal in society

88
Q

AO3:
Functionalism weaknesses:
1. The approach is too positive - It presents a largely optimistic view of the nuclear family and suggests that family life is always what?

A

The approach is too positive - It:

  1. Presents a largely optimistic view of the nuclear family
  2. Suggests that family life is always good and always happy
89
Q

AO3:
Functionalism weaknesses:
1. The approach is too positive - It presents a largely optimistic view of the nuclear family and suggests that family life is always good and always happy.
2. It therefore tends to ignore what?

A

It therefore tends to ignore the:
1. Conflict
2. Exploitation
stressed by Marxists

90
Q

AO3:
Functionalism weaknesses:
1. The approach is too positive - It presents a largely optimistic view of the nuclear family and suggests that family life is always good and always happy.
2. It therefore tends to ignore the conflict and exploitation stressed by Marxists.
Critics argue that this argues the what of families?

A
Critics argue that this ignores:
1. The dark side
Or,
2. The negative aspects
of families
91
Q

AO3:
Functionalism weaknesses:
1. The approach is too positive - It presents a largely optimistic view of the nuclear family and suggests that family life is always good and always happy.
2. It therefore tends to ignore the conflict and exploitation stressed by Marxists.
Critics argue that this ignores the dark side or the negative aspects of families, such as what?

A

Critics argue that this ignores the dark side or the negative aspects of families, such as:

  1. Child abuse
  2. Conflict between family members
  3. Domestic violence
92
Q

AO3:
Functionalism weaknesses:
1. The approach is too positive - It presents a largely optimistic view of the nuclear family and suggests that family life is always good and always happy.
2. It therefore tends to ignore the conflict and exploitation stressed by Marxists.
Critics argue that this ignores the dark side or the negative aspects of families, such as child abuse, conflict between family members and domestic violence.
What does focusing on the functions of the family ignore?

A

Focusing on the functions of the family ignores the fact that many families are dysfunctional

93
Q

AO3:
Functionalism weaknesses:
1. The approach is too positive - It presents a largely optimistic view of the nuclear family and suggests that family life is always good and always happy.
2. It therefore tends to ignore the conflict and exploitation stressed by Marxists.
Critics argue that this ignores the dark side or the negative aspects of families, such as child abuse, conflict between family members and domestic violence.
Focusing on the functions of the family ignores the fact that many families are dysfunctional.
Who (what year) is this supported by?

A

This is supported by the psychologist James (2003)

94
Q

AO3:
Functionalism weaknesses:
1. The approach is too positive - It presents a largely optimistic view of the nuclear family and suggests that family life is always good and always happy.
2. It therefore tends to ignore the conflict and exploitation stressed by Marxists.
Critics argue that this ignores the dark side or the negative aspects of families, such as child abuse, conflict between family members and domestic violence.
Focusing on the functions of the family ignores the fact that many families are dysfunctional.
This is supported by the psychologist James (2003), who argues what?

A

This is supported by the psychologist James (2003), who argues that many of the problems we face in adult life can be traced back to early childhood

95
Q

AO3:
Functionalism weaknesses:
1. The approach is too positive - It presents a largely optimistic view of the nuclear family and suggests that family life is always good and always happy.
2. It therefore tends to ignore the conflict and exploitation stressed by Marxists.
Critics argue that this ignores the dark side or the negative aspects of families, such as child abuse, conflict between family members and domestic violence.
Focusing on the functions of the family ignores the fact that many families are dysfunctional.
This is supported by the psychologist James (2003), who argues that many of the problems we face in adult life can be traced back to early childhood.
Example

A
For example, if we are:
1. Over-competitive
2. Lacking in confidence
Or,
2. Constantly jealous of other people
,these problems can be traced back to the way we were socialised by our parents in our early years
96
Q

AO3:
Functionalism weaknesses:
1. The approach is too positive - It presents a largely optimistic view of the nuclear family and suggests that family life is always good and always happy.
2. It therefore tends to ignore the conflict and exploitation stressed by Marxists.
Critics argue that this ignores the dark side or the negative aspects of families, such as child abuse, conflict between family members and domestic violence.
Focusing on the functions of the family ignores the fact that many families are dysfunctional.
This is supported by the psychologist James (2003), who argues that many of the problems we face in adult life can be traced back to early childhood.
For example, if we are over-competitive, lacking in confidence or constantly jealous of other people, these problems can be traced back to the way we were socialised by our parents in our early years.
3. By stressing the idea that the nuclear family is universal, what does this approach do?

A

By stressing the idea that the nuclear family is universal, this approach:

  1. Ignores family diversity
  2. Seems to assume that other family types are inadequate
97
Q

AO3:
Functionalism weaknesses:
1. The approach is too positive - It presents a largely optimistic view of the nuclear family and suggests that family life is always good and always happy.
2. It therefore tends to ignore the conflict and exploitation stressed by Marxists.
Critics argue that this ignores the dark side or the negative aspects of families, such as child abuse, conflict between family members and domestic violence.
Focusing on the functions of the family ignores the fact that many families are dysfunctional.
This is supported by the psychologist James (2003), who argues that many of the problems we face in adult life can be traced back to early childhood.
For example, if we are over-competitive, lacking in confidence or constantly jealous of other people, these problems can be traced back to the way we were socialised by our parents in our early years.
3. By stressing the idea that the nuclear family is universal, this approach ignores family diversity and seems to assume that other family types are inadequate.

An AO3 critique for this is Guasp.

The growth in the number of other forms of family, such as cohabiting families, same-sex families and families of choice, means that functionalism is seen as very what by many sociologists today and so isn’t applicable anymore?

A

The growth in the number of other forms of family, such as:
1. Cohabiting families
2. Same-sex families
2. Families of choice
,means that functionalism is seen as very out-of-date by many sociologists today and so isn’t applicable anymore

98
Q

AO3:
Functionalism weaknesses:
1. The approach is too positive - It presents a largely optimistic view of the nuclear family and suggests that family life is always good and always happy.
2. It therefore tends to ignore the conflict and exploitation stressed by Marxists.
Critics argue that this ignores the dark side or the negative aspects of families, such as child abuse, conflict between family members and domestic violence.
Focusing on the functions of the family ignores the fact that many families are dysfunctional.
This is supported by the psychologist James (2003), who argues that many of the problems we face in adult life can be traced back to early childhood.
For example, if we are over-competitive, lacking in confidence or constantly jealous of other people, these problems can be traced back to the way we were socialised by our parents in our early years.
3. By stressing the idea that the nuclear family is universal, this approach ignores family diversity and seems to assume that other family types are inadequate.

An AO3 critique for this is Guasp.

The growth in the number of other forms of family, such as cohabiting families, same-sex families and families of choice, means that functionalism is seen as very out-of-date by many sociologists today and so isn’t applicable anymore.
4. Functionalism does not consider the ways in which functions may be performed by other institutions, rather than by what?

A

Functionalism does not consider the ways in which functions may be performed by:
1. Other institutions
,rather than
2. The family

99
Q

AO3:
Functionalism weaknesses:
1. The approach is too positive - It presents a largely optimistic view of the nuclear family and suggests that family life is always good and always happy.
2. It therefore tends to ignore the conflict and exploitation stressed by Marxists.
Critics argue that this ignores the dark side or the negative aspects of families, such as child abuse, conflict between family members and domestic violence.
Focusing on the functions of the family ignores the fact that many families are dysfunctional.
This is supported by the psychologist James (2003), who argues that many of the problems we face in adult life can be traced back to early childhood.
For example, if we are over-competitive, lacking in confidence or constantly jealous of other people, these problems can be traced back to the way we were socialised by our parents in our early years.
3. By stressing the idea that the nuclear family is universal, this approach ignores family diversity and seems to assume that other family types are inadequate.

An AO3 critique for this is Guasp.

The growth in the number of other forms of family, such as cohabiting families, same-sex families and families of choice, means that functionalism is seen as very out-of-date by many sociologists today and so isn’t applicable anymore.

  1. Functionalism does not consider the ways in which functions may be performed by other institutions, rather than by the family.
  2. Feminists are critical of this approach, because it assumes that what are fixed?
A

Feminists are critical of this approach, because it assumes that gender roles are fixed

100
Q

AO3:
Functionalism weaknesses:
1. The approach is too positive - It presents a largely optimistic view of the nuclear family and suggests that family life is always good and always happy.
2. It therefore tends to ignore the conflict and exploitation stressed by Marxists.
Critics argue that this ignores the dark side or the negative aspects of families, such as child abuse, conflict between family members and domestic violence.
Focusing on the functions of the family ignores the fact that many families are dysfunctional.
This is supported by the psychologist James (2003), who argues that many of the problems we face in adult life can be traced back to early childhood.
For example, if we are over-competitive, lacking in confidence or constantly jealous of other people, these problems can be traced back to the way we were socialised by our parents in our early years.
3. By stressing the idea that the nuclear family is universal, this approach ignores family diversity and seems to assume that other family types are inadequate.

An AO3 critique for this is Guasp.

The growth in the number of other forms of family, such as cohabiting families, same-sex families and families of choice, means that functionalism is seen as very out-of-date by many sociologists today and so isn’t applicable anymore.

  1. Functionalism does not consider the ways in which functions may be performed by other institutions, rather than by the family.
  2. Feminists are critical of this approach, because it assumes that gender roles are fixed, ignoring what?
A

Feminists are critical of this approach, because it assumes that gender roles are fixed, ignoring the changes that have taken place

101
Q

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
AO3 of Parsons:
For feminists, Parsons’ view of the family is sexist, why?

A

For feminists, Parsons’ view of the family is sexist, because he assumes that:

  1. Men and women will naturally perform separate roles
  2. These roles have equal status
102
Q

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
AO3 of Parsons:
For feminists, Parsons’ view of the family is sexist, because he assumes that men and women will naturally perform separate roles and that these roles have equal status.
Feminists argue that in reality, what are traditional nuclear families based on?

A

Feminists argue that in reality, traditional nuclear families are based on male:

  1. Power
  2. Dominance
103
Q

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
AO3 of Parsons:
For feminists, Parsons’ view of the family is sexist, because he assumes that men and women will naturally perform separate roles and that these roles have equal status.
Feminists argue that in reality, traditional nuclear families are based on male power and dominance.
Example

A

For example:
1. The responsibilities for emotional support entailed in the stabilisation of adult personalities largely fall on women
,while
2. Women themselves receive little emotional support from their male partners

104
Q

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
AO3 of Parsons:
For feminists, Parsons’ view of the family is sexist, because he assumes that men and women will naturally perform separate roles and that these roles have equal status.
Feminists argue that in reality, traditional nuclear families are based on male power and dominance.
For example, the responsibilities for emotional support entailed in the stabilisation of adult personalities largely fall on women, while women themselves receive little emotional support from their male partners.
Parsons largely dismisses the idea of women doing what?

A

Parsons largely dismisses the idea of women playing a significant instrumental role

105
Q

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
AO3 of Parsons:
For feminists, Parsons’ view of the family is sexist, because he assumes that men and women will naturally perform separate roles and that these roles have equal status.
Feminists argue that in reality, traditional nuclear families are based on male power and dominance.
For example, the responsibilities for emotional support entailed in the stabilisation of adult personalities largely fall on women, while women themselves receive little emotional support from their male partners.
Parsons largely dismisses the idea of women playing a significant instrumental role, arguing what?

A

Parsons largely dismisses the idea of women playing a significant instrumental role, arguing that in the US in the 1950s, most women:
1. Were only in part-time jobs
Or,
2. Were full-time housewives

106
Q

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
AO3 of Parsons:
For feminists, Parsons’ view of the family is sexist, because he assumes that men and women will naturally perform separate roles and that these roles have equal status.
Feminists argue that in reality, traditional nuclear families are based on male power and dominance.
For example, the responsibilities for emotional support entailed in the stabilisation of adult personalities largely fall on women, while women themselves receive little emotional support from their male partners.
Parsons largely dismisses the idea of women playing a significant instrumental role, arguing that in the US in the 1950s, most women were only in part-time jobs or were full-time housewives.
Today, women make up what % of the UK workforce and make a significant what contribution to most families?

A

Today, women:

  1. Make up 47% of the UK workforce
  2. Make a significant economic contribution to most families
107
Q

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
AO3 of Parsons:
For interactionist sociologists, Parsons’ view of socialisation can be seen whereby parents do what?

A

For interactionist sociologists, Parsons’ view of socialisation can be seen whereby parents instil the:
1. Norms
2. Values
of society into children who are waiting to be ‘filled’ with culture

108
Q

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
AO3 of Parsons:
For interactionist sociologists, Parsons’ view of socialisation can be seen whereby parents instil the norms and values of society into children who are waiting to be ‘filled’ with culture.
In reality, how can socialisation be seen?

A

In reality, socialisation can be seen as a two-way process

109
Q

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
AO3 of Parsons:
For interactionist sociologists, Parsons’ view of socialisation can be seen whereby parents instil the norms and values of society into children who are waiting to be ‘filled’ with culture.
In reality, socialisation can be seen as a two-way process, where what?

A

In reality, socialisation can be seen as a two-way process, where children socialise their parents as much as they are socialised by them

110
Q

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
AO3 of Parsons:
Parsons seems to see the nuclear family as an ideal institution that what?

A

Parsons seems to see the nuclear family as an ideal institution that modern industrial societies require

111
Q

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
AO3 of Parsons:
Parsons seems to see the nuclear family as an ideal institution that modern industrial societies require.
What does this ignore?

A

This ignores the degree of choice available in contemporary societies about:

  1. Family structures
  2. Relationships
112
Q

Parsons argues that in industrial societies the nuclear family only has 2 essential functions to perform.
Parsons’ 2 functions are the primary socialisation of children (social control) and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
AO3 of Parsons:
Parsons seems to see the nuclear family as an ideal institution that modern industrial societies require.
This ignores the degree of choice available in contemporary societies about family structures and relationships.
Rather than one dominant form of the family, the nuclear family, we are seeing increasingly what families and households?

A

Rather than one dominant form of the family, the nuclear family, we are seeing increasingly:
1. Diverse
2. Fluid
families and households