Functions Of The Family Functionalism Perspective Flashcards
(8 cards)
What is Murdock four functions model
The family serves four functions to meet their needs of society and members
1. Stable sexual satisfaction-with the same partner preventing social disruption instead of sexual a sexual free for all
2. Reproduction of the next generation
3. Socialisation of the young
4. Meeting its members economic needs-key unit of production family worked together to provide food shelter
Evaluation strength of Murdock theory
Supporting evidence found these four functions in 250 different cultures
Evaluation Murdock weaknesses
Nuclear families have been replaced other institutions could perform these equally as well
Overly positive neglects that conflict and exploitation exists infamilies
Marxist say the families function is to benefit capitalism and feminists say the function is to benefit patriarchy
Parsons warm bath theory
Father gets home from work can soak into his family like a warm bath preparing him for work the next day
Industrial society fits nuclear family best
Family replaced by industrialisation no longer unit of production but unit of consumption
How have traditional functions been replaced
In past nuclear family and marriage key way to reproduce now replaced by other non-nuclear family types sex outside marriage is common
Family key role in socialising now compulsory education and welfare services
Used to look after sick now have NHS and social services and welfare benefits
What is parsons two basic and permanent functions of the family
- Primary socialisation teaching of norms and values to children so there’s an agreed consensus about society without this society would cease to function
2.Stabilization of adult personalities couples provide social support and release stress from working life men play instrumental role where they go to work women perform expressive role providing warmth security and emotional support and primary socialization of children meeting families emotional needs she is homemaker plays central role in stabilizing adult personalities
Evaluation parsons strengths
Has supporting evidence Fletcher says family has not lost its functions functions have been changed make families feel more responsible for caring for children because if they fail children will be taken away by government agencies
Evaluation parsons negatives
Sexist parsons has been criticized as being sexist as he sees that the woman’s role to provide emotional support and to de-stress her worker husband
Overly positive families are full of conflict male dominance and even child abuse
