Question 1

Do functionalists believe the family is always a happy and safe place?

Accepted Answer

Not necessarily. Functionalists focus on the positive functions the family is *supposed* to perform for society's maintenance. Their analysis is often criticised for being overly optimistic and for ignoring the 'dark side' of family life, such as domestic violence and child abuse. They see such instances as 'dysfunctions' rather than as fundamental features of the family institution itself.

Question 2

Are the New Right and Functionalist views the same?

Accepted Answer

They are similar but not identical. Both favour the traditional nuclear family. However, Functionalism is a sociological theory explaining the family's role in maintaining social order. The New Right is a more political perspective that is concerned with the *decline* of the family and its perceived negative consequences, such as crime and welfare dependency. The New Right actively advocates for policy changes to support the nuclear family, whereas functionalism is more descriptive.

Question 3

Do all feminists blame men for inequality in the family?

Accepted Answer

No, this is a common oversimplification. While Radical feminists do see men as the direct beneficiaries of patriarchy, other strands have different focuses. Marxist feminists argue that capitalism is the primary source of women's oppression, not men themselves. Liberal feminists focus on unequal laws and socialisation patterns, which can be changed, rather than blaming an entire gender. It is crucial to distinguish between the different feminist perspectives.

Perspectives on the role of the family

What you need to know

Perspectives on the role of the family