Functionalist views

• Parsons


  Youth is a transitional stage from childhood to adulthood.

  The rite of passage symbolises this. e.g. sweet 16 birthday
• Eisenstadt


  Youths have a shared set of norms and values. This gives them a sense of belonging.

  Youth culture allows youth to let off steam by testing boundaries and experimenting. This contributes to social order
• Murdoch and McCron 


  youth culture is a generation in itself. It radically changes society and eliminated outdated divisions
• Evaluation


  • It generalises youth culture as a whole.
  • Class, race, and gender isn't considered.
  • Most evidence comes from white middle class american males