Functionalism and the family

What is the functionalist view on society?

• macro

• consensus

• structural

• organic analogy

• functional, all parts of society positively benefit the whole society

What is the functionalist view on the family?

Social institutions such as family perform positive functions both for society and for individuals, through socialisation

What does murdock say about family?

Argues that the family is a basic building block and performs four essential functions to meet the needs of society

What four functions does the family perform?

• sexual regulation, prevents social disruption

• reproduction

• socialisation of children, learning norms and values

• economic, providing necessities e.g. food

Evaluation of murdock

Many examples of families in UK that do not conform to such a narrow concept of family, his views may no longer be relevant

What does parsons say about the family?

Argues that the role of the family ‘adapts’ to the society in which it’s found

What four ways does the family adapt to society according to parsons?

• functional fit theory, if economy changes than family must adapt

• effects of industrialisation, used to be generations living together but not just parents and kids

• achieved status, social mobility

• structural differentiation and loss of functions, families used to perform many roles but now services do that e.g. schools

What are the two essential functions of the nuclear family according to parsons?

• primary socialisation of children, equip them with basic skills

• stabilisation of adult personalities (warm bath theory), family is the place where adults can relax

What two roles did parsons identify which are required for efficiency of the economy?

• instrumental, breadwinner, male

• expressive, housewife and caregiver

What did willmott and young say about the family?

Argue that the family has become privatised (smaller and working for a wage), represents a march of progress as they refer to this as the symmetrical family