1 What is the primary socialisation function of the family according to functionalists?
The primary socialisation function refers to the family’s role in teaching children societal norms and values.
2 Which functionalist sociologist emphasized the role of the family in stabilising adult personalities?
Talcott Parsons.
3 What is the “warm bath” theory in functionalism?
Parsons’ theory that the family provides emotional support and relieves stress for adults.
4 According to George Peter Murdock, what is one universal function of the family?
Reproduction.
5 How do functionalists view the economic support function of the family?
Families provide for the economic needs of their members, such as food, shelter, and clothing.
6 What does the sexual regulation function of the family entail?
Families help to regulate sexual behaviour and provide a stable structure for sexual relations and procreation.
7 Who emphasized the importance of social integration within the family?
Émile Durkheim.
8 What did Talcott Parsons argue about the nuclear family in industrial societies?
Parsons argued that the isolated nuclear family was best suited for modern industrial society due to its geographical mobility and clear division of labor.
9 How did Michael Young and Peter Willmott describe the changing roles within families in their study “The Symmetrical Family”?
They described a movement towards more symmetrical family roles with a more equal division of labour.
10 Which functionalist concept explains the economic role of the family in cooperating for mutual benefit?
The economic support function, as highlighted by George Peter Murdock.
11 How have functionalists adapted their theories to address changes such as rising divorce rates and changing gender roles?
Functionalists have acknowledged and adapted to more egalitarian family structures and recognized the importance of shared responsibilities.
12 What is the role of families in social integration according to functionalists?
Families transmit cultural norms and values across generations, promoting social integration.
13 Which sociologist highlighted the importance of families in internalising society’s culture?
Talcott Parsons.
14 How do functionalists view the role of technology and communication in modern family dynamics?
Functionalists explore how technology impacts family interactions, socialisation, and the provision of emotional support.
15 What criticism do Marxists have regarding the functionalist view of families?
Marxists argue that the family serves the interests of capitalism by reproducing labour power and maintaining class inequality.
16 How do feminists critique the traditional functionalist perspective on families?
Feminists argue that functionalism reinforces patriarchal norms and values, neglecting the experiences of women and other marginalised groups.
17 What is the deterministic view in functionalism?
The deterministic view suggests that individuals are simply products of social structures and institutions without considering human agency and individuality.
18 What do postmodernists argue about the functionalist focus on traditional gender roles?
Postmodernists argue that the focus on traditional gender roles is outdated in a society characterised by diversity and fluidity.
19 How do interactionists critique the functionalist perspective on families?
Interactionists emphasise the importance of individual agency and the subjective experiences of family members, arguing that functionalism fails to consider the dynamic and negotiated nature of family life.
20 How do functionalists view the rise of diverse family forms in contemporary society?
While functionalists traditionally focused on the nuclear family, modern functionalist perspectives acknowledge the rise of diverse family forms and their ability to fulfil essential functions.