The Functionalist View of Family Life

Functionalism is a consensus theory.

This means they see society in a state of harmony and agreement.

Socialisation into common norms and values is the source of this harmony and order.

Society is a system. It is made of different parts that are interdependent and linked to each other.

Each part of society plays a positive role in helping to keep order and harmony in society.

The functionalist theory sees the family in a very positive light. It is good for society and the individuals in it.

Functionalists argue that the family performs 5 key functions. 

Primary socialisation occurs in the early years of life in the family.

The family is a 'factory' that produces human personalities. Without the family you may become feral.

In the family children learn basic norms and values of their culture e.g. walking and talking. 

This helps social order because we learn common culture.

Modern life is very stressful and pressurised.

People have worries about issues like jobs, money and unemployement. 

The family is said to be a place where people can relax, unwind and destress,

It's a haven where they can gain emotional security and warmth.

It stabilises adult personalities and acts as a warm bath.

The family helps distribute resources so that all members are cared for.

Food and shelter are provided for everyone by parent's wages.

The sick and elderly may also be cared for if they are dependent on wage earners.

In the family people have children and this produces new members of society to go to school and work.

Sexual Function

Sexual relations based on monogamous marriage stops the tension and conflict that could occur with complete sexual freedom.

Social Control

The family is an agency of informal control. The family uses sanctions to encourage children to conform. This is functional to society.

Primary socialisation

Emotional support

Economic support

Reproduction

Sexual function & Social control