families and households Flashcards
to memorise (31 cards)
What are Murdock’s four functions of the family?
Sexual, reproductive, economic, educational (socialisation).
What is Parsons’ “functional fit” theory?
The idea that the type of family structure fits the needs of society (nuclear for industrial, extended for pre-industrial).
What are the two functions of the nuclear family according to Parsons?
Primary socialisation of children and stabilisation of adult personalities.
According to Engels, what does the family ensure in capitalist societies?
Inheritance of private property.
How does Zaretsky view the family?
As a unit of consumption that supports capitalism.
What does Ansley say about women in the family?
“Women are takers of shit” – they absorb male anger caused by capitalism.
What do radical feminists argue about the family?
It is a patriarchal institution that oppresses women.
What is Carol Smart’s “Personal Life Perspective”?
A view that sees families as defined by personal choice and emotional connections (not just blood/marriage).
What are the Rapoports’ five types of family diversity?
Organisational, cultural, class, life-stage, generational.
What is Chester’s “Neo-Conventional Family”?
A dual-earner version of the nuclear family; still dominant.
What does Stacey mean by “divorce-extended family”?
Families formed through divorce and remarriage, e.g., ex-in-laws helping raise children.
What is Giddens’ idea of the “pure relationship”?
Relationships based on individual choice and emotional satisfaction.
What is Beck’s “negotiated family”?
A family structure based on negotiation, not tradition, to suit members’ needs.
What are reasons for the decline in marriage?
Secularisation, feminism, changing attitudes, economic factors.
What law made divorce easier in 1969?
Divorce Reform Act.
Why has cohabitation increased?
Seen as a trial before marriage; changing social norms.
What does LAT stand for in family structures?
Living Apart Together.
Why has the birth rate declined?
Improved women’s position, children as economic liability, child-centredness.
Why has the death rate declined?
Better healthcare, nutrition, and sanitation.
What is one effect of an ageing population?
Increased pressure on healthcare and pensions.
What are “push” and “pull” factors in migration?
Push: war, poverty. Pull: jobs, education.
What is the New Right view on family policy?
The state undermines the traditional nuclear family and self-reliance.
How do feminists view social policy?
As reinforcing patriarchy (e.g., maternity leave vs. paternity).
Give an example of a pro-natalist policy.
Nazi Germany’s incentives for Aryan families.
