1. Structural Functionalism Kingsbury, N., & Scanzoni, J. (1993). Structural-functionalism. In P. G. Boss, W. J. Doherty, R. LaRossa, W. R. Schumm, & S. K. Steinmetz (Eds.), Sourcebook of family theories and methods: A contextual approach (pp. 195-217). New York: Plenum Press.

2. Dr. Ronald J. Werner-Wilson Why Should We Study a Theory Which Has Become Obsolete?  It has been historically significant in family studies.  Functionalist assumptions continue to influence family studies, although some dispute the influence.

3. Dr. Ronald J. Werner-Wilson Terms  Definition of function: contribution that a part of a system makes to the maintenance of the whole.  Definition of structure: arrangement of roles in a system.  Properties of a social system, such as family:  Specialized or differentiated roles.  Roles are organized around shared vales and norms which establish rights and responsibilities.  Systems maintain their boundaries.  Systems tend toward homeostasis or equilibrium.

4. Dr. Ronald J. Werner-Wilson Functionalism and the Family  The family was conceived of as the structure best able to satisfy the physical and psychological needs of its members.  The family also contributes to maintenance of the society because it instills children with social values and norms.  Roles in the family:  Two roles: è Instrumental: task-oriented duties such as breadwinner role. è Expressive: person-oriented duties such as nurturing.  Deviance from roles, according to Parsons, contributed to family disorganization.

5. Dr. Ronald J. Werner-Wilson Main Contemporary Problems Addressed  Alternative life-styles:  This research compares diverse family forms or experiences to traditional versions of “the family.”  If the structure is outside the mainstream, it is often described in pejorative terms.  Family stress perspectives: response to structural changes is associated with disorganization and reorganization.  Remaking relationships: Evolution versus choice and control  Functionalist theorists suggest that social changes are the result of social evolution, suggesting that social forces dominate individuals.  Alternatively, other theorists suggest that social change occurs because individuals make personal decisions to challenge social norms which lead to acceptance of different structures.

6. Dr. Ronald J. Werner-Wilson Limitations of Structural- Functionalism  Scientific  Research continues to demonstrate that there are not “natural “ family structures.  Research demonstrates that families regularly experience conflict rather than equilibrium (e.g., Olson and McCubbin, 1988, noted that husbands and wives disagree about major variables, as do parents and adolescents).  It is difficult to clearly distinguish between instrumental and expressive roles.  Public policies/Political implications: functionalist theories supported existing structures.