theories of the family

• What do different sociologists have varying views on?

  The role of the family
• What do sociologists focus on regarding the family?

  Whether it is beneficial for members and society
• What should you do in pairs based on Topics 1 and 2?

  • Make a list
  • Use learned concepts and personal ideas
• What view do functionalists hold about the family?

  It plays a vital role in society
• How do Marxists view the family?

  As a means to maintain class inequalities
• What do feminists believe about the family?

  It is the main source of women's oppression
• What are the main theories of the family discussed?

  • Functionalism
  • Marxism
  • Feminism
  • New Right
  • Personal Life Perspective
• What analogy do functionalists use to describe society?

  The organic analogy of the human body
• What are the interdependent parts of society according to functionalists?

  Education, government, religion, etc.
• What are the four essential functions of the nuclear family according to Murdock?

  Socialisation, economic needs, reproduction, sex drive
• How does Parsons describe the functions of the family in different societies?

  They depend on the type of society
• What type of family was prevalent in pre-industrial society?

  Extended family
• What are the two irreducible functions of the nuclear family according to Parsons?

  Primary socialisation and stabilisation of adult personalities
• According to Engels, why does the family exist?

  To pass private property to offspring
• What is the 'cult of private life' according to Zaretsky?

  Belief that fulfillment comes from family life
• What does Poulantzas argue about nuclear families?

  They are brainwashed to think capitalism is fair
• What is the view of liberal feminists on gender inequality?

  It is gradually being overcome through reform
• What do Marxist feminists believe about capitalism?

  It is the main form of women's oppression
• What functions does the family perform for capitalism according to Marxist feminists?

  Reproducing labor force, absorbing anger, reserve army of labor
• What do radical feminists believe about the family and marriage?

  They are key institutions in a patriarchal society
• What do radical feminists propose to achieve their goals?

  Women need to organize for separatism
• What do difference feminists argue about women's experiences?

  They vary by ethnicity, class, and age
• What is the New Right's view on the division of labor?

  It is natural and biologically determined
• What do the New Right believe about state welfare?

  It leads to a dependency culture
• What does the personal life perspective focus on?

  Relationships individuals see as significant
• What do interactionists believe about family structures?

  They ignore the diversity of families today
• What are the key functions of the family according to different theories?

  • Functionalism: Socialisation, economic support, reproduction
  • Marxism: Maintain class inequalities, pass property
  • Feminism: Source of oppression, challenge stereotypes
  • New Right: Natural division of labor, self-reliance
  • Personal Life Perspective: Significant relationships