Theories of the family sociologists

Murdock

The family peforms 4 essential functions:

• Stable satisfaction of the sex drive (monogamous relationships prevent social disruption).

• Reproduction of the next generation (ensures society's continuation).

• Socialisation of the young (teaches shared norms and values).

• Meeting economic needs (provides food and shelter).

Parsons

Nuclear family adapts to the needs of society - functionally fit theory

Peforms 2 irreducible functions- primary socialisation of children and the stabilisation of adult personalities

Engels

Inheritance of property- the nuclear family developed to ensure wealth was passed to legitimate heirs.

Monogamy arose to control women

Zaretsky

• The family performs an ideological function by creating an illusion of a ‘safe haven’ from capitalism.

• In reality, the family reinforces capitalism by socializing children into accepting hierarchy and inequality.

Smart and Nordqvist

Focuses on the meanings people give to family relationships. Families go beyond blood and marriage(e.g. Pets, close friends)