Sociol 2pp3: Theoretical Perspectives

This set of flashcards focuses on key vocabulary terms and concepts related to the theoretical perspectives on the functions of families as discussed in the lecture.

Structural Functionalism

A sociological perspective that views society as a system of interconnected parts that work together to promote stability and consensus over shared values.

Nuclear Family

A family unit consisting of two parents and their children, considered by functionalists to be the ideal family structure.

Emile Durkheim

A sociologist known for his contributions to structural functionalism, emphasizing the importance of social cohesion.

Talcott Parsons

A sociologist who advocated for the functionalist perspective on family, believing that traditional family roles contribute to social stability.

Household Production

Historically, families operated as units of production, but industrialization shifted many of these functions to external institutions.

Economic Inequality

Disparities in wealth and resources within families, often examined in the context of gender roles and economic dependence.

Symbolic Interactionism

A sociological approach that focuses on the day-to-day interactions and meanings individuals assign to family relationships and symbols.

Micro-Level Interactions

Small-scale, interpersonal interactions that shape societal norms and personal relationships.

Worker Alienation

A condition in which workers become estranged from their labor, as described by Marxist theory.

Feminist Theory

A framework that examines gender inequalities in both private and public spheres, emphasizing the importance of unpaid labor.

Life Course Theory

A perspective that studies how individual experiences and timing of life events affect one’s life trajectory.

Postmodernism

A theoretical approach that critiques grand narratives and emphasizes the fluidity of discourses about identity, family, and society.

Discourse

A system of knowledge and beliefs that shapes how individuals perceive their place in the world and informs decisions.

Socialization

The process through which individuals learn and internalize the values, beliefs, and norms of their culture.

Capitalist Class Conflict

Marxist concept highlighting the struggle between the working class and the capitalists who own the means of production.

Critique of Nuclear Family

A critical examination of the nuclear family that questions its predominance in societal norms and highlights diversity in family structures.

Special Monies

The idea that not all money has the same value; for example, money earned versus money gifted carries different social meanings.