Theories of the family

• What are the main sociological perspectives on the family?

  Functionalism, New Right, Marxism, Feminism, personal life perspective
• What is the main focus of the functionalist perspective on the family?

  It views the family as vital for social stability
• How do functionalists view society in relation to the family?

  As a biological organism with interdependent parts
• What are the functions of the family according to functionalists?

  • Stable satisfaction of the sex drive
  • Reproduction of the next generation
  • Socialisation of the young
  • Satisfaction of economic needs
• What do functionalists ignore about the family?

  Conflict and exploitation within family structures
• What are Murdock's four functions of the family?

  Sex drive, reproduction, socialisation, economic needs
• Why does Murdock argue the nuclear family is universal?

  It meets essential social needs practically
• What does Parsons' 'functional fit' theory suggest about family structure?

  It depends on the type of society present
• What are the two types of family structure identified by Parsons?

  • Three generational extended family
  • Two-generational nuclear family
• What are the two irreducible functions of the nuclear family according to Parsons?

  Primary socialisation and stabilisation of adult personalities
• What roles does Parsons distinguish in the family?

  Instrumental (breadwinner) and expressive (nurturing)
• What is the New Right perspective on the family?

  It advocates for traditional family structures
• What do New Right theorists believe about state welfare?

  It creates a dependency culture and family breakdown
• What are the two classes in Marxist theory?

  Capitalist class (bourgeoisie) and working class (proletariat)
• How do Marxists view the family in relation to capitalism?

  As an institution that maintains exploitation
• What functions does the family perform according to Marxists?

  • Passing on wealth
  • Ideological functions
  • Unit of consumption
• What do liberal feminists believe about gender inequality?

  It is gradually being overcome through reforms
• What do Marxist feminists argue about women's oppression?

  It is linked to capitalism and family roles
• What do radical feminists argue is the main cause of women's oppression?

  Patriarchy and male domination
• What does difference feminism highlight?

  • Varied experiences of oppression among women
  • Importance of ethnicity and class in family dynamics
• What is the personal life perspective (PLP) approach to family?

  A bottom-up approach focusing on individual meanings
• What does PLP ignore about traditional family ties?

  What makes blood or marriage ties special
• How can PLP be applied to family diversity?

  • It highlights various relationships defined as family
  • It emphasizes personal meanings in family dynamics
• What does Parsons argue about the family in functionalism?

  It performs positive functions for society and individuals