Study "sociology family", a flashcard deck on FORKSAI.
How did industrialisation impact the structure and functions of the family, according to Parsons' 'functional fit' theory?
Parsons argued that industrialisation necessitated a shift from the extended family to the nuclear family. Pre-industrial families were self-sufficient and extended, but industrialisation required a geographically and socially mobile workforce, making the smaller nuclear family more practical. This change also led the family to lose some functions, retaining only primary socialisation and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
Define George Murdock's concept of the nuclear family's 'stabilisation of the sex drive' function.
Murdock argued that the nuclear family performs the function of stabilising the sex drive by providing a monogamous relationship. This satisfies sexual urges within a socially approved framework, thereby preventing sexual promiscuity and potential chaos in society.
Why do Marxists believe the family serves an 'ideological function' in a capitalist society?
Marxists argue that the family socialises children into accepting capitalist society and its inherent inequalities. This ideological function ensures that future generations are prepared to accept their place within the capitalist system, thus maintaining the existing social hierarchy and economic structure.
According to the source, what is 'secularisation' and how has it contributed to the increase in divorce rates?
Secularisation refers to the decline of religious influence on society. As marriage was traditionally a religious ceremony, a decrease in religious belief means people are less fearful of religious repercussions (like going to hell) associated with divorce, making them more likely to seek a legal termination of their marriage.
How do Functionalists view the increase in divorce rates, despite acknowledging greater family diversity?
Functionalists remain optimistic about the family, believing that despite increased divorce rates, the nuclear family is still desired and aspired to. They point to high re-marriage statistics as evidence that people still value marriage and the nuclear family, suggesting that individuals are likely to be part of a nuclear family at some point in their lives.
Distinguish between Murdock's and Parsons' views on the number of functions the family performs.
Murdock identified four universal functions of the nuclear family: reproduction, socialisation, economic needs, and stabilisation of the sex drive. Parsons, however, argued that due to industrialisation, the family lost some functions and now primarily performs only two: primary socialisation and the stabilisation of adult personalities.
Why do Feminists view the changes in divorce rates as a positive development?
Feminists see the increase in divorce rates as positive because it allows women to escape from what they perceive as the oppression of men within marriage. Divorce provides women with the opportunity to live more fair, equal, and independent lives, free from potentially patriarchal structures.
Explain the Marxist concept of the family as a 'unit of consumption' in a capitalist society.
Marxists argue that the family functions as a unit of consumption within capitalism. Families are encouraged to purchase consumer goods, which drives demand and profits for capitalist enterprises, thereby sustaining the economic system.
What is the 'functional fit' theory proposed by Parsons, and what does it explain?
The 'functional fit' theory, proposed by Parsons, explains how the family structure adapts to fit the needs of society. Specifically, it discusses the impact of industrialisation, arguing that the extended family transformed into the nuclear family to meet the demands for a socially and geographically mobile workforce.
According to the source, what specific legal change contributed to the increase in divorce rates in the UK?
The Divorce Reform Act (1969) significantly contributed to the increase in divorce rates. This act made divorce cheaper and easier to obtain by equalising and widening the grounds for divorce, thereby simplifying the legal process.