3. Functionalism and the Family

• How do functionalists view the family?

  As the cornerstone of society
• What needs does the family meet according to functionalists?

  Emotional satisfaction, social support, identity, security
• Why is the family considered extremely functional?

  It is beneficial and necessary for society
• What type of family do functionalists focus on?

  Nuclear Family
• Who is a key functionalist theorist mentioned?

  George Peter Murdock
• What does Murdock claim about the nuclear family?

  It is a universal institution
• What are the necessary functions of the family according to Murdock?

  Reproductive, sexual, educational, economic
• Why is reproduction considered vital for society?

  It ensures society's survival
• How does Murdock view sexual behavior within marriage?

  It contributes to social order and stability
• What is the educational function of the family?

  Transmitting culture to the next generation
• How do adult family members contribute economically?

  By becoming productive workers
• What is a critique of Murdock's view on family diversity?

  It ignores cultural variations in family forms
• What does Murdock's definition of family imply about parenting styles?

  Some parenting styles are less beneficial
• Who is another key functionalist theorist mentioned?

  Talcott Parsons
• What is primary socialization according to Parsons?

  Teaching children societal norms and values
• What role do mothers play in Parsons' view of the family?

  They are expressive leaders
• How does Parsons describe nuclear families?

  As "personality factories"
• What is the Warm Bath Theory?

  Family life stabilizes adult personalities
• What is a critique of Parsons' view on gender roles?

  It assumes separate roles have equal status
• How does Parsons view the process of socialization?

  As a top-down process
• What are the additional functions of the family according to functionalists?

  1. Gender Role Socialization

  • Cultural patterns of behavior for genders

  1. Social Control

  • Sets moral standards and boundaries

  1. Social Status

  • Influences opportunities and identity

  1. Protective and Welfare Function

  • Care for vulnerable family members
• What is ascribed status?

  Status allocated by age, gender, or birth
• How does socio-economic status affect family welfare?

  It influences the support children receive
• What is the moral center of society according to Murdock?

  The family sets behavioral rules
• What is the dark side of the family?

  Internal issues like domestic violence
• What does Oliver James argue about childhood problems?

  They trace back to early socialization
• How does functionalism view family diversity?

  It is seen as outdated by many sociologists
• What changes in family roles have occurred since the 1950s?

  Women now contribute significantly to families
• What do critics argue about the essential functions of the family?

  Other relationships can also fulfill these functions