SocialTheories Functionalism Functionalists believe that everything and everybody in society has a ROLE (a function) that makes society to run smoothly.

Example: The HUMAN BODY The organs of a human body work together to keep us alive. Each organ has a FUNCTION. Each organ works interdependently to help us move, think, breath, eat, pump blood, etc. If all of our organs are working properly and doing their ROLE, we function “normally”. Also, all of our natural organs and body parts have a purpose to keep us functioning. Examples?

Key Theorists: . . One of the original and traditional sociologists Dealt heavily with Organic Solidarity – a type of Functionalism . Contemporary sociologist/functionalist

Functionalism: Key Words . Institutions: Functionalist analysis looks on social systems as having certain needs, and society as a system of social structures/institutions (economic, legal, educational). If the needs are being met, then it is the social structures that meet these needs. The structures are thus functional in the sense that they help society to operate. Interconnections exist within and among these structures, and individuals and groups are constrained by these structures.

Interdependence and Equilibrium Since society is composed of different parts, and the proper operation of these parts is necessary to the smooth operation of society as a whole, the interdependence of the parts is an important feature of functional analysis. . So, dysfunctions can occur in a functional society, however all parts of society will have to adjust and adapt to create a new working/functional society once again. Interdependence and Equilibrium . These parts work together in an orderly manner, without great conflict. The different parts are usually in equilibrium, or moving toward equilibrium, with consensus rather than conflict governing the inter-relationships of the various parts.

Macro . Consensus – Norms and Values A consensus exists within the social system. Individual behaviour is governed by social norms(most consistent behaviour in society)or rules that are generally accepted and agreed upon. . There are aspects of these norms that return the society to a normal state of affairs in the case of a disturbance – for example, sanctions, punishment, social approval, and social disapproval.

Functionalism - Example Family as an Institution The family has a number of important functions in society: 1. Provides for physical protection of its members 2. Provides for emotional well being of its members 3. Socialization of new members

Functionalism - Example How does the family ... 1. Provide for the physical protection of its members? • 2. Provide for emotional well-being of its members? 3. Socializes new members?

Functionalism - Example Family Structure The family is organized around three statuses: .

Functionalism - Example What This Means ? The husband/father has an active, doing role and is responsible for economic support of the family members the wife/mother has an expressive (emotional) role and is responsible for physical and emotional support of the family members .

Questions Asked by Structural Functionalists ? Is the number of single parent families increasing? What effect does education have on incomes?

Limitations / Criticisms . interactions within the family are also ignored