George Peter Murdock

• Murdock said the nuclear family performed four essential functions to meet the needs of society and individuals.
• Sexual

  Conflict is reduced through monogamy (having one partner at one time).
• Education / socialisation

  Primary socialisation - children are taught the norms, values, language, etc. of their culture.
• Economic

  The family provides resources and financial stability for its members.
• Reproductive

  Ensures that new members of society are born and that the culture can continue and be passed down.