functionalism

• What perspective do functionalists have on society's institutions?

  They see them as essential for smooth functioning
• How many societies did Murdock study?

  250 societies
• What did Murdock argue about the family in society?

  It is inevitable and universal across cultures
• What are the four functions of the family according to Murdock?

  • Sexual: stable relationships and control
  • Reproductive: provides new members
  • Economic: pools resources for members
  • Educational: teaches norms and values
• What is one strength of Murdock's view on the family?

  It recognizes the role in primary socialization
• What is a weakness of Murdock's perspective according to Morgan?

  It ignores alternative households and family issues
• Why might functionalism be less relevant today according to critics?

  It does not account for modern family dynamics
• What do feminists argue about the functionalist view of the family?

  It overlooks the exploitation of women
• What are the traditional roles in Parsons' view of the family?

  Instrumental role for fathers, expressive for mothers
• What are the two functions of the family according to Parsons?

  1. Primary socialization: teaching societal values
  2. Stabilization of adult personalities: emotional support
• How did Parsons describe the family in terms of socialization?

  As a factory producing the next generation
• What is the 'warm bath theory' in Parsons' perspective?

  Family provides emotional support and security
• Why does Parsons believe the nuclear family fits modern society?

  It allows for a geographically mobile workforce
• What did Young and Wilmott argue about the nuclear family?

  It emerged due to social changes since 1900
• What are some social changes that made the nuclear family more important?

  Higher living standards and women working
• What is a weakness of Parsons' warm bath theory?

  It assumes all families are safe havens
• What challenge does the theory of the fit face in modern society?

  Women’s careers complicate family mobility