The Functions of the Family

Functionalist Theory of the Family ¨They believe society has certain basic needs for it to continue into the future successfully. ¨They believe a successful society is underpinned by social order and economic stability. ¨ ¨Social institutions makes sure this continues by:

       -   transmitting values, norms, etc., to the next generation in order to reproduce consensus and therefore the culture of society

       - teaching particular skills in order that economy – the engine of society – operates effectively

       - allocating people to family and occupational roles which make best use of their  talents and abilities.

•  They believe the family play a major role in achieving these goals. •  The family is the cornerstone of society by making its members feel apart of society as a whole. •  The family meets the needs of emotional stratification, social support, identity and security. •  They see the family as extremely functional – its existence is paramount to the smooth running of society and the personal development of its individuals. Criticisms of Functionalism’s Theory ¨They believe society…