Warm bath theory
13 Questions
0 Views

Choose a study mode

Play Quiz
Study Flashcards
Spaced Repetition
Chat to Lesson

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

According to Parsons, what is the main role of the female in a family?

  • To be equal partners with the male in all aspects of family life.
  • To be the head of the household.
  • To be the primary breadwinner.
  • To be the emotional caretaker and socialize children. (correct)

    • Parsons suggests that the division of labor between husband and wife is "natural." What is the basis for this claim?

  • He believed that men are naturally better suited for leadership roles.
  • He believed that traditional gender roles are essential for social stability.
  • He believed that women are inherently more nurturing and caring.
  • He believed that women are biologically predisposed to emotional caregiving. (correct)

    • How does Parsons view the relationship between husband and wife in a nuclear family?

  • He believes they should be strictly separated in their roles and responsibilities.
  • He believes they are complementary partners, each contributing differently to the family. (correct)
  • He believes they should be able to switch roles whenever necessary.
  • He believes they are equal partners with shared responsibilities.

    • What did Parsons believe was the primary obstacle to modernity and progress?

    <p>The extended family structure and its emphasis on tradition. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why did Parsons believe the nuclear family was superior for modern industrial societies?

    <p>It allowed for greater adaptability to the needs of modern industrial economies. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    According to Parsons, what role does the family play in modern society?

    <p>The family provides a space for individuals to relax and unwind from the stresses of work and society. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary function of the 'instrumental leader' in the nuclear family, according to Parsons?

    <p>Ensure the financial security and well-being of the family. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the nuclear family, according to Parsons, help stabilize the adult personality?

    <p>Serving as a safety valve for the release of pent-up emotions and stress, allowing individuals to act out childish behaviors. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Parsons argues that the nuclear family is a 'retreat' for adults. What does this mean?

    <p>A place for individuals to escape from the demands of work and society, finding peace and emotional security. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    According to Parsons, what is the primary reason why the nuclear family is essential for the health and happiness of adults in modern society?

    <p>It offers emotional support and stability, relieving stress and promoting well-being. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of the nuclear family that Parsons emphasizes?

    <p>A strong emphasis on shared responsibility and decision-making between spouses. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In Parsons' view, what is the relationship between the nuclear family and wider society?

    <p>The nuclear family is a stabilizing force in society, contributing to social order and stability. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    According to Parsons, how does the family's role in relieving stress benefit both individuals and society as a whole?

    <p>By contributing to individual happiness and well-being, the family strengthens social bonds and promotes overall societal stability. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Flashcards

    Expressive Leader

    Role of female as primary caregiver and emotional support in the family.

    Sexual Division of Labour

    The differentiation of tasks based on gender roles in the family.

    Complementary Roles

    Husbands and wives contribute differently yet equally to family maintenance.

    Nuclear Family

    A family unit consisting of parents and their children, seen as more adaptable.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Modern Industrial Societies

    Societies that rely on the nuclear family to function effectively in the economy.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Parsons’ family function

    The family relieves adult stress from modern living.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Nuclear family as a 'warm bath'

    The nuclear family provides comfort like a warm bath.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Retreat concept

    Family seen as a retreat from workplace competitiveness.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Emotional security

    Family offers emotional support and safety for adults.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Instrumental roles

    Men are the 'instrumental leaders' of families.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Expressive roles

    Women often take on nurturing and emotional roles.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Playful interaction in families

    Families allow adults to engage in childlike behavior.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Stabilization of adult personality

    Family life helps stabilize and de-stress adults.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Study Notes

    Parsons' View of the Family and Adult Stability

    • Parsons argued that the family's primary function is to reduce stress for adults.
    • Modern workplaces are demanding, competitive, and stressful.
    • Extended family support is less readily available in nuclear families.
    • This creates an opportunity for stronger nuclear family ties.
    • Parsons saw the nuclear family as a 'warm bath', a refuge from outside pressures.
    • It provides a 'retreat' relieving work-related stress and creating emotional security.
    • It allows for expression of childlike emotions without external judgment.
    • The family acts as a safety valve managing stress, stabilising personal and social bonds.

    Instrumental and Expressive Roles

    • Parsons viewed marriage as crucial for adult well-being.
    • Family life is a positive space, providing emotional support.
    • He considered the family as 'home sweet home', a haven in a demanding world.
    • The nuclear family provides clear roles for spouses.
    • The male is the "instrumental leader," responsible for financial support and protection.
    • The female is the "expressive leader," focusing primarily on childcare and emotional support.
    • He argued this division is 'natural' due to biological differences.
    • These roles are complementary, contributing equally although differently to the family unit.

    Nuclear Family vs. Extended Family

    • Parsons believed extended families hinder progress and modernity.
    • He saw the nuclear family as superior, better suited to modern industrial societies.
    • He argued it fosters civic duty, adaptable workforce skills, and geographical mobility.

    Studying That Suits You

    Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

    Quiz Team

    Description

    Explore Parsons' perspective on the family as a vital support system for adults facing modern stressors. This quiz covers the functions of the nuclear family, the importance of emotional security, and the roles within marriage. Delve into the dynamics that create stability in adult lives through family ties.

    More Like This

    Use Quizgecko on...
    Browser
    Open
    Browser
    Browser