Domestic division of labour

• Parsons view

  He came up with the functionalist model of the family arguing that there is a clear division of labour between spouses
• the husband - instrumental role, financially provides for the family (breadwinner)

  The wife - Expressive role, meets the families emotional needs (homemaker)
• Femenists views of the DDOL

  critical of the domestic division of labour because it shows women in a relationship must play their role and only THEIR role
• Parsons argues that the domestic division of labour is based on biological differences. Women are “naturally” suited to their nurturing role and men are providers
• Critics of parsons

  Young and willmott - take the “march of progress” on history of families and the evolving roles as family roles become more equal over the years.

  Feminist sociologists - reject this “March of progress” view. Believe only so little change has been made.