F Functionalism

Question 1

Murdock

Answer 1

Nuclear Family = practical 
The family performs 4 basic and essential functions:
- Sexual
- Reproductive
- Economic 
- Social
These functions are Universal 
The family work for wages, hence the family is a ‘Unit of Production’. The family also remains an important ‘Unit of Consumption’ of goods and services.

Question 2

Bell and Vogel

Answer 2

Dysfunctional aspects of the family.
The child is often an Emotional Scapegoat for the tension of unresolved conflicts of the parents. However it helps stabilise the family and therefore society.
Functionalism is a macro sociological theory that looks at the whole of society.

Question 3

Parsons

Answer 3

Primary Socialisation of children, ensuring they learn norms and values.
Stabilisation of adult personalities - the marriage relationship and the emotional security that the couple provide each other.
Geographic Mobility - move about to new jobs without causing disruption to the family.
Social Mobility - Freedom in the career you pick, not influenced by parents.
Loss of functions thesis
Specialisation and Differentiation has occurred.
Expressive and Instrumental Roles within
the family.
Warm Bath Theory