Sociological Perspectives on Family

A collection of vocabulary flashcards summarizing key concepts from sociological perspectives on family.

Universal nuclear family

A family consisting of two generations: parents and children, believed by Murdock to be the best family type.

Functions of the Family (Murdock)

Includes sexual control, reproduction, socialization, and economic support.

Stabilisation of adult personalities

A function of the family (Parsons) providing emotional security within a marital relationship.

Cushioning effect

A Marxist theory suggesting the family acts as a comfort from capitalist oppression and exploitation.

Ideological state apparatus

Social institutions that transmit state values, such as education and family, according to Marxist theory.

Triple Shift

The expectation that women fulfill emotional support, domestic labor, and paid work roles.

Patriarchy

A social system where men dominate women in various societal aspects.

Malestream Sociology

A perspective that applies male-centered research to females and overlooks women's different experiences.

Cohabitation

The arrangement where two individuals live together in a romantic relationship without being legally married.

Child Centeredness

The concept prioritizing children's needs and opinions in family decision-making and dynamics.

Toxic Childhood

The impact of rapid social and technological changes on children's health and emotional development.

Beanpole family

A family structure characterized by fewer members in each generation but with longer life spans.

Pure Relationships

Relationships based on choice and personal fulfillment rather than societal expectations.

Domestic Division of Labour

The allocation of household tasks and responsibilities between family members.

March of Progress View on Children

A perspective asserting that the status of children has improved over time, benefitting them.

Cohabitation as Test Marriage

The trend where couples cohabit before entering into marriage to assess compatibility.

Cultural Diversity in Families

The recognition that family structures and functions can vary significantly among different cultural groups.

Functional Fit Theory

The idea that family structures evolve to meet societal needs.

Marxist View on Family Roles

Belief that families exist to maintain capitalism and reinforce class inequalities.

Feminist Critique of Family

The argument that family structures often serve the needs of men and perpetuate female oppression.