Family

Sociology – The Family
Essay Plan
Describe and evaluate the following views of the family; * Functionalist * Marxist * Feminist * Interactionist
Compare these views making reference to the changing nature of family structures, gender roles and family patterns.
Introduction
Introduce and explain the concept of family in sociology. What is the family? What is the purpose or function of a family? Briefly mention the perspectives which are you going to discuss and the main differences when viewing the family.
Main Body
You need to describe and evaluate all four perspectives. In addition you should make comparisons between the perspectives throughout. Remember to reference any theorists which you may discuss and that you NEED to include criticisms of each perspective.
For each perspective you should give: * A basic overview/ main principles of theory * Any specific examples or theories which provide evidence to support the main principles * A comparison between this perspective and others (where relevant). * Evaluation of perspective – strengths and weaknesses.

General Concepts to cover: * Purpose of the socialisation process * Function of norms and values * Conjugal roles * Changing family patterns – i.e. what is normal now compared to previous times?
Social Stability/ Social order/ Social solidarity
Concepts specific to perspectives:

Macro scale
Functionalism

Consensus theory

Institutions benefit the ruling class
Macro scale
Zaretsky – How the family serves the needs of capitalism
Engels – The development of the nuclear family
Capitalism
Conflict theory
Marxism
Talcott Parsons – Functions of family, complimentary roles.
George Murdock – Universal Family

Conclusion
Summarise the information you have outlined. What are the major themes you have discovered through writing this essay? Is family one specific institution with set roles and boundaries or is it an evolving and developing concept that changes over time? Are any of the theories more relevant or useful than others?

You MUST include a reference list!!

Symbols, meanings, roles and scripts
Culture is reproduced
Culture
Takes all types of families into account
David Clark – different types of marriage
Berger and keller – roles within a marriage
Look at what family life is ACTUALLY like rather what assume.
Micro scale – no generalisation
Interactionism
Domestic violence
Oppressive nature of the roles in the family
Socially constructed gender distinctions
The different types of feminism
Patriarchy
Conflict theory
Feminism