Studied by 3 people
What are Talcott Parson’s view on the family?
Parsons’s view of the nuclear family being universal is similar to that of Murdock although he differs in suggesting that the nuclear family is more isolated- a ‘privatised nuclear family’
The nuclear family has two basic and irreducible functions in comparison with extended kinship networks of the early and pre-industrial era
Domestic division of labour- With males and females taking on specific roles based on biological characteristics
What are the functions of the family?
Based ideas upon the typical American family of the 1950s- an era of increasing consumption where families looked to other institutions to replace some of the functions of family
Two functions that other institutions could not perform
Primary socialisation
Stabilisation of adult personalities
What is primary socialisation?
Early socialisation of children into norms and values of society
Appropriate behaviours in social situations, core values of society, pro-social behaviours
Parents reinforce behaviours that are positive and sanction socially undesirable behaviours so that children will ‘fit into’ wider society
What is the stabilisation of adult personalities?
Often referred to as ‘warm bath theory’
Family life provides emotional security for adult members
Adults are also able to indulge in childish tendencies by interacting with their children
Actions stabilise personalities and provide a sense of fulfilment
What is the functional fit theory?
Parsons suggested the nuclear family formed as an adaption to industrialisation
Functions of the extended family needed to be replaced as the nuclear family became socially and geographically mobile
The nuclear family is a better fit for modern society as people move for work and are rewarded for their efforts with promotions, leading to movement up the class system
What is the sex role theory?
Parsons suggested that roles in the family were divided based on biological characteristics and gendered socialisation
The instrumental role is taken on by males- Economic support through going to work and providing discipline
Expressive role- Emotional support and nurturing role taken on by female
What are the evaluations of Parsons’ view on the family?
Feminists criticise Parsons for stereotypical views of female roles and expectations of females towards males
The nuclear family argued not to have evolved due to industrialisation
Outdated view- Criticise by more contemporary research that states a decline in the functions of the family
Ethnocentric view based on American ideals and theoretical in nature rather than based on research
