Perspectives on the role of the family — common mistakes

In essays, do not just describe each perspective. You must actively compare and contrast them. For example, explain how both Marxists and Feminists see the family as serving the powerful (capitalism/men), which directly critiques the Functionalist view of the family benefiting everyone. Use phrases like 'In contrast to the functionalist view...' or 'Feminists would criticise the Marxist focus on class, arguing that patriarchy is the more fundamental source of inequality...'

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.

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.

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.