Functionalism

• Functionalists argue that society is made of different institutions that function together, and society shapes the individual
• Organic analogy

  If one institution breaks down, all other institutions break down like organs working together in a body

  It's the basic building block of society as it preforms crucial functions of socializing and meeting emotional needs
• Meritocracy

  Being rewarded based on talent and achievement rather than social status
• Murdock = all families preform 4 functions

  • sexual = stable sexual relationships need to be controlled for satisfaction and in monogamous relationships, prevent sexual jealousy
  • reproductive = new members of society, without which society can't continue
  • economic = family provides resources
  • education = teaching norms and values, providing food and shelter
• Strength of Murdock

  Recognizes family role in primary socialisation
• Weaknesses of Murdock

  • Feminists = fail to acknowledge most universal unit is the mother and children, ignore exploitation of women
  • Marxists = ignores influence of capitalism in reproducing and controlling workers
  • Outdated = fail to acknowledge changing gender roles
• Parsons - family serves two functions

  • Primary socialization = early socialisation of children into norms and values of society
  • Stabalisation of adult personalities = 'warm bath theory' where men come home from work, women take care to prepare him for next day of work
• Parson's functional fit theory

  Nuclear family is best for geographically mobile work, people move and earn promotions
• Parson's sex role theory


  Instrumental, breadwinner role = male provides for family through work

  Expressive, caregiving role = female provides nurtures and provides emotional support
• Strengths of Parson's theories

  Wilmott and Young = nuclear family emerged due to social change, extended family less important
• Weaknesses of Parson's theories

  Feminists = stereotypical views on women

  Outdated = decline in traditional functions
• Overall criticisms of Functionalism

  Downplay conflicts = ignores darker side of family

  Outdated = roles can be played by both genders

  Ignored exploitation of women and socially constructed gender roles