Functionalist Theory of the Family
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Questions and Answers

What are the two main functions of the family according to Talcott Parsons?

  • Raising children and providing social status
  • Stabilization of adult personalities and economic support
  • Primary socialization of children and emotional support
  • Primary socialization of children and stabilization of adult personalities (correct)
  • What does Parsons refer to as the 'Warm Bath' Theory?

  • The idea that families provide basic needs
  • The emotional fulfilment from family dynamics
  • The developmental stages of family life
  • The role of family in relieving societal stress (correct)
  • Which family structure did Parsons argue became dominant after the Industrial Revolution?

  • Blended families
  • Extended families
  • Nuclear families (correct)
  • Single-parent families
  • Which aspect of modern living is NOT considered a factor contributing to stress in family life according to Parsons?

    <p>Technological advancement (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does Parsons suggest about the emotional needs of adults in a family?

    <p>They are fulfilled through family relationships (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In Parsons' view, which of the following best describes the role of the family in society?

    <p>A necessary social structure for emotional support and child upbringing (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement reflects a limitation of Parsons' perspective on the nuclear family?

    <p>It does not account for the benefits of single-parent families (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What did Parsons believe was a consequence of the transition from extended to nuclear families?

    <p>A decrease in social cohesion (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Flashcards

    Talcott Parsons

    A very influential 20th-century American sociologist, considered a key figure in functionalist theory.

    Functionalist Theory of Family

    This theory suggests that families serve vital roles in society, like raising children and supporting adults.

    Nuclear Family

    A family structure consisting of parents and children, often seen as the dominant family type in modern society.

    Primary Socialization

    The process where children learn basic values, norms, and behaviours from their family

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    Stabilization of Adult Personalities

    The way families help adults cope with stress and maintain emotional balance, offering a sense of security and support.

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    Warm Bath Theory

    Parson's concept that family life helps relieve stress for adults in modern society.

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    Industrial Revolution

    A major historical change that significantly impacted society and family structures.

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    Extended Family

    A large family structure that includes multiple generations and relatives living together.

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    Study Notes

    Functionalist Theory of the Family

    • Talcott Parsons is a highly influential 20th-century sociologist, laying a foundation for modern functionalist thought.
    • Parsons viewed the family's core functions as:
      • Primary socialization of children.
      • Stabilization of adult personalities.
    • Families were seen as vital for child-rearing and providing emotional support for adults.
    • Parsons asserted that extended families were superseded by nuclear families post-industrial revolution, becoming the dominant model.
    • The "warm bath" theory describes family as a source of stress relief in modern society, counteracting daily pressures.

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    Description

    Explore the fundamental concepts of functionalism in the context of family as proposed by sociologist Talcott Parsons. This quiz covers key functions of the family, the transition from extended to nuclear forms, and the role of families in providing emotional support and socialization for children. Test your understanding of how the family serves as a stabilizing force in society.

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