functionalist family theory - definitions

the nuclear family

a heterosexual married couple with children (usually two)

the extended family

extensions of the nuclear family (cousins, grandparents, aunts)

socialisation

the process through which a person learns the culture of their society

norms

societal guides to appropriate behaviour

values

societal beliefs about what is important and worthwhile

female carer-core

mothers and children are the most basic unit of family

the dark side of the family

negative aspects of family life - abuse, neglect, violence

capitalism

private ownership of the means of production

primary socialisation of children

the earliest stage of children learning the norms and values of society

the warm bath theory

the nuclear family takes away from the stress of work life

instrumental leader

the man is responsible for the economic welfare of the family

expressive leader

the woman is responsible for raising the children and the emotional welfare of the family

unit of consumption

the family has to buy products that enable them to survive

unit of production

the family provides the things necessary for survival

industrial society

society dependant on science and technology within industry

pre-industrial society

society based on agricultural industry