Murdock

What did Murdock define family as?

“The family is a social group characterised by common residence, economic cooperation and reproduction. It includes adults of both sexes, at least two of whom maintain a socially approved relationship, and one or more children, own or adopted of the sexually cohabiting adults”

How many societies did Murdock survey in 1949?

250

What did Murdock conclude from his surveys from different societies?

Nuclear families are universal

What did Murdock suggest the nuclear family performs?

Four essential functions that benefit family and ensure a smooth running society

What is the first essential function that Murdock says nuclear families perform?

Reproduction

What does reproduction provide?

New members of a society, children showing symbolism of couples emotional commitment and stabilising of family life

What is the second essential function that Murdock says nuclear families perform?

Education/Socialisation

What does education provide for the family?

Transmission of culture and values, social order and help children become well-integrated citizens

What is the third essential function that Murdock says nuclear families perform?

Economic

What does the economic function provide for the family?

It encourages children to become productive workers, allows families to contribute to the economy and may crate sexual division of labour

What is the fourth essential function that Murdock says nuclear families perform?

Sexual

AO3 - interactionists

Claims Murdock disregards that family is a product of culture and not biology

AO3 - conservative

Murdocks definition of the family is conservative and condemns other family types are inferior

AO3 - feminism

Feminists argue Murdocks view of family is patriarchal

AO3 - dark side

Murdock ignores the dark side of the family

AO3 - sexual division of labour

Sexual division of labour is outdated