Functionalist approach

 Functionalists are interested in the way society works or how it functions.  They make comparisons between the way the human body works to how society works  Every organ in the body has a role in keeping the body healthy and functioning well  They claim that different institutions or groups in society all play a part in keeping society healthy and functioning well.  These institutions include schools, police force, religion and the family

How do Functionalists view the Family?  At the heart of a healthy society is a well functioning family  A stable family unit is key to a stable society  This family is an agent of PRIMARY SOCIALISATION, teaching children the norms and values of society  Functionalists believe the NUCLEAR family is the ideal family  Look at the handout on George Murdock’s theory

The 4 main functions of the nuclear Family  REPRODUCTION  Society needs new members if it is to survive over time.  The nuclear family has an important role in this through procreation and child rearing.  The family reproduces the human race and the future workforce

4 functions of the Nuclear Family  PRIMARY SOCIALISATION  This is the process whereby children become familiar with the culture and way of life that we are born into  Through this we learn how to “fit in” and conform to rules  By ensuring that children behave according to the rules, the family acts as an AGENT OF SOCIAL CONTROL  If children do not receive adequate primary socialisation then this can be a problem for society

4 functions of the Nuclear Family  EMOTIONAL SUPPORT & ECONOMIC PROVISION  The nuclear family provides emotional support and comfort for its children  It also provides financial support, food and shelter  Children are emotionally and economically dependent on their parents

Warm Bath Theory  Functionalists believe that the nuclear family provides support for all its members.  All are provided for with food, shelter and emotional security  Functionalists believe the family and home should have the same comforting effect as slipping into a warm bath.  The home should be a secure place for all family members where daily stresses are eased away 

Evaluation  What do you think of the Functionalist view of the family?  Is the nuclear family the ideal family?  Do all family members benefit as the warm bath theory suggests? 