Functionalist Views of Families
Sociology: AQA GCSE, topic 2.5.1
Functionalist Views of Families
Functionalists argue that everything in society has a function.
Nature
- Functionalists argue that it is normal for men to be the breadwinners and for women to be the caregivers as it’s part of their nature.
Parsons
- According to the functionalist Parsons, one of the responsibilities of parents is gender role socialisation (teaching children what the norms and values are).
- If this primary socialisation is accomplished, then boys will know what is needed to take up the instrumental role, and girls the expressive role.
Warm bath theory
- The functionalist Parsons also argues that home is a place where a family can be relieved from daily stressors and where one feels secure. This is known as the warm bath theory.
Evaluating functionalist ideas
- Parsons' ideas can be seen as outdated since nowadays both spouses work.
- Functionalists ignore the fact that there might be abusive families.
- Functionalists ignore the fact that women might experience a dual burden.
Test yourself on Functionalist Views of Families
What does the warm bath theory describe?
What is the argument functionalists make for men being breadwinners and for women being caregivers?