FAMILIES & HOUSEHOLDS - FUNCTIONALIST VIEW OF THE FAMILY (CRITICISMS)

What is the main criticism from the functionalist perspective?

Teh functionlaist view has bewn seen as "downplaying conflict"

What are the pictures of the family described as from Parsons and Murdock?

They both paint rosy pictures - showing it as a harmonious institution (family is the beating heart of society)

What did feminists accuse them of doing?

Downplaying conflict - particularly in the "dark side of the family"

What is the "dark side of the family" referring to?

The negative aspects of the family that people don't necessarily see

-emotional and physical abuse

-poverty

-divorce

-disabilities

Things that effect everyone in the family

What is the impact of children where there is conflict in the home?

• difficultly to regulate their emotions

• affect mental well-being

• impact school life

• emotionally disturbed

What is an example of Parsons out of date sex roles?

Parsons view of "instrumental" and "expressive" roles of men and women are very old fashioned

Why does this view differs from modern day families?

Men and women now have to choice to decide to work or look after the children. This changes the previous societal expectations and norms

Are expressive and instrumental roles still followed?

No - both partners are likely to play aspects of both roles at different times

What do functionalists tend to ignore?

The exploitation of women and they way they suffer from the sexual division or labour

What does women's responsibility for housework and childcare undermine?

Their position in paid employment

What is the name of the act that protects women's jobs and wages?

The sex discrimination act 1975

What may women do in order to fufil their employment?

Have children later, or not at all

What did Leach say happened to the nuclear family?

Leach said that in modern day society the nuclear family have become isolated from their family and the wider community (privatization)

What did Leach describe he family as becoming?

"Inward looking" institution (leading to emotional stress)

Why is there now conflict in the family?

Family members demand and expect too much from one another

What do Marxists argue that ten family can be?

Exploitative and destructive

What are examples of the family loosing its functions?

• welfare

• education

• recreation

• child neglect

What did Fletcher argue the family has more, not less of?

More responsibilities/functions than previously

What are some examples of functions of the family now?

• education

• primary socialization

• support financially

• duty of care

What has been strengthened by the welfare state?

The health and welfare functions of the family

What agencies can raise safeguarding corcerns?

• social services

• charities (childline)

• education/schools

• police

• health care professionals

• the public

What did Fletcher state the family played an important economic role in?

Unit of consumption

What does Fletcher mean by the unit of consumption?

The family unit requires things to live - they buy things such as food and clothes which then helps businesses run

What are modern day families so concerned about?

Raising livings standards and keeping up with other families

What products are aimed at modern families?

• family car

• family packages (holidays, days out)

• broadband

• tv

• prams

What do Marxist argue about the pressure to purchase consumer goods?

They believe this encourages family to over-consume and forces workers in unfulfilling jobs

What do feminists see the modern family unit as?

A unit of production since women have a dual burden and produces for the family