theories of the family

• What do functionalists believe society is based on?

  Value consensus
• How do functionalists compare society to a biological organism?

  Both have parts that perform vital functions
• What role do families play in society according to functionalists?

  They meet some of society's needs
• What is considered the most ideal family type by functionalists?

  Nuclear family
• What are the four essential functions of the family according to Murdock?

  Sex drive, reproduction, socialisation, economic needs
• How does the family stabilize the sex drive according to Murdock?

  By promoting morals to have sex with one person
• Why is reproduction essential for society according to Murdock?

  Without it, society would die out
• What is the role of families in socialising the young?

  They teach shared norms and values
• How do families meet their members' economic needs?

  By providing food and shelter
• What are some criticisms of Murdock's view on the family?

  Other family types can perform these functions
• What do feminists argue about the family?

  It serves the needs of men and oppresses women
• What do Marxists believe about the family?

  It meets the needs of capitalism, not society
• What is Parsons' functional fit theory?

  Family functions depend on the society type
• What are the two kinds of family structures identified by Parsons?

  Nuclear family and extended family
• What was the main family type in pre-industrial society?

  Extended family
• What family type became prevalent during industrialization?

  Nuclear family
• What are the two essential needs of industrial society according to Parsons?

  Geographically mobile workforce and socially mobile workforce
• What is geographical mobility?

  Physical movement of people for work
• How did geographical mobility differ in pre-industrial society?

  People lived in villages on the same farms
• What does Parsons argue about the nuclear family and the workforce?

  Nuclear family fits modern industry's needs
• What is social mobility?

  Movement/change in class status
• How is status achieved in modern society according to Parsons?

  By individual efforts and ability
• What does Parsons say about the loss of functions of the family?

  Industrialization has reduced family functions
• What has taken over many traditional family functions?

  The state has taken over many functions
• What are the two functions of the nuclear family in modern society?

  Primary socialization and stabilization of adult personalities
• What is Marxism considered as in terms of theory?

  Conflict theory
• Who are the main theorists of Marxism?

  Karl Marx, Friedrich Engels, Eli Zaretsky
• What are the key terms associated with Marxism?

  Bourgeoisie, Proletariat, Capitalism
• How does Marxism view capitalist society in relation to class?

  Divided by two opposing and unequal classes
• What role do society's institutions play according to Marxism?

  They maintain class inequality and capitalism
• What functions of the family benefit the capitalist system according to Marxists?

  Functions performed to benefit capitalism
• How does inheritance of property fulfil capitalism?

  The family developed so men could have biological offspring for their property
• Why did Engels argue monogamy is essential?

  To ensure inheritance of private property
• How does this change women's role in the family? (still Engels)

  As instruments for the production of children
• What ideological function does the family serve according to Marxists?

  Justifies inequality through socialization
• What does Zaretsky argue about the family in capitalism?

  It offers a haven from capitalism's harshness
• What is the illusion Zaretsky mentions regarding family needs?

  The family cannot meet its members' needs
• How does the family contribute to capitalism as a unit of consumption?

  Generates profits as an important market
• What does "keeping up with the Joneses" refer to?

  Consuming the latest products to compete
• How do media target children in relation to consumption?

  By exploiting children's 'pester power'