functionalism in family

murdocks function of family - reproductive

• biological reproduction of next generation

• families create the next generations

murdocks function of family - economic

• meets economic need of family members

• providing food, clothes, housing

murdocks function of family - sexual

• adult sexual relationships are controlled and socially acceptable

• only having one partner - no cheating

murdock’s function of family - educational

• teach norms and values so children know how to behave/act in society

parson’s function of family - warm bath theory

comforts members from harsh reality of outside world

mainly provided by females

parson’s function of family - socialisation of children

• pass on norms and values

• mothers nurture and socialise children

parson’s function of family - stabilisation of adult personalities

• relieve the stress of modern-day life

• provide loving and relaxing haven where they can be themselves

evaluation - out of date

woman now work and biological roles set by parsons dont apply

evaluation - down plays role of conflict

• oppression of woman and domestic violence

• family isnt always safe and warm

evaluation - ignores family diversity

families are best when nuclear

ignores other family types who still fulfil some functions

evaluation - not always functional

some families are dysfunctional

agency of socialisation

social group responsible for socialisation