Functionalist Perspective

Question 1

Functionalism is a _________ and ______________ type of theory

Answer 1

• Functionalism is a consensus theory
• Functionalism is a structural theory

Question 2

Functionalist theorist George Murdock states the family performs four functions. What are they?

Answer 2

o stable satisfaction of the sex drive
o Socialisation of the young
o Reproduction of the next generation
o Meeting its members’ economic needs.

Question 3

Stable satisfaction of the sex drive …with the same partner, preventing the social disruption caused by a sexual ‘free-for-all’. Why is this?

Answer 3

o Marriage provides the best opportunity for the socially controlled expression of the sex-drive
o Open/non-monogamous could have disruptive effects on social order
o Sex between husband and wife strengthens the family bond

Question 4

Reproduction of the next generation – without which society would not continue. How does the family achieve this?

Answer 4

o Marriage and the family provide the necessary stability for the reproduction and bringing up of children

Question 5

Socialisation of the young …into society’s shared NORMS & VALUES. Why is this important, and what is the impact of this

Answer 5

o Within the family, children learn the important NORMS AND VALUES of society, so the value consensus is reinforced and passed down from generation to generation.
o Socialisation within the family ensures that children will be prepared for their adult roles

Question 6

Meeting its members’ economic needs …such as food and shelter. How does the family do this?

Answer 6

o The family provides economically for its members by, for instance, providing food and shelter.
o For example, the husband goes out to work, receives a wage and so can provide for his family.

Question 7

What is the definition of Functionalism?

Answer 7

Functionalism is a structural consensus theory that views society as a system made up of interrelated parts, each serving a function to maintain stability and social order.

Question 8

Who is known as the founding father of Functionalism?

Answer 8

Emile Durkheim

Question 9

What analogy did Emile Durkheim develop to explain society?

Answer 9

The Organic Analogy

Question 10

In the Organic Analogy, what does society compare to?

Answer 10

A living organism, like the human body.

Question 11

What happens if there is dysfunction in one organ/institution according to the Organic Analogy?

Answer 11

It can affect the whole system.

Question 12

What are social institutions?

Answer 12

Structures like family, education, religion, media, economy, and government that shape behaviour.

Question 13

What is socialisation?

Answer 13

The process through which individuals learn norms and values of their society.

Question 14

Define norms in the context of society.

Answer 14

Expected patterns of behaviour in society.

Question 15

What are values?

Answer 15

Shared beliefs about what is right and wrong.

Question 16

What does consensus theory propose?

Answer 16

Society works because people agree on norms and values.

Question 17

What is social cohesion?

Answer 17

The degree to which people in society are united in common purpose.

Question 18

What is social control?

Answer 18

Mechanisms that regulate behaviour and prevent deviance.

Question 19

How does the Organic Analogy describe society?

Answer 19

Society is like a body; institutions are organs that must function together.

Question 20

What does it mean when an institution is described as indispensable?

Answer 20

Each institution is essential for society to function.

Question 21

What does interdependent mean in the context of social institutions?

Answer 21

Institutions rely on each other to maintain social order.

Question 22

What is the function of an institution?

Answer 22

The role each institution plays in maintaining society.

Question 23

What is one function of the family as a social institution?

Answer 23

Primary socialisation, emotional support, identity formation.

Question 24

What is the function of education in society?

Answer 24

Secondary socialisation, preparing individuals for the workforce, promoting meritocracy.

Question 25

What role does religion play in society?

Answer 25

Reinforces shared beliefs, provides moral guidance, promotes social solidarity.

Question 26

What is the function of media in society?

Answer 26

Informs, entertains, persuades, and reinforces dominant cultural values.

Question 27

What does the economy do in society?

Answer 27

Organises production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services.

Question 28

What is the primary function of government?

Answer 28

Maintains order, enforces laws, provides public services and national security.

Question 29

True or False: Functionalists believe social change occurs rapidly.

Answer 29

False

Question 30

List one example of a consensus shift in society.

Answer 30

* 1928 – Equal voting rights for women * 1970 – Equal Pay Act * 1987 – Corporal punishment banned in schools * 2014 – Legalisation of gay marriage * 2022 – Smacking ban in Wales & Scotland

Question 31

What is one criticism of Functionalism?

Answer 31

Overlooks conflict and inequality in society.

Question 32

What assumption does Functionalism make about social institutions?

Answer 32

Assumes all institutions are beneficial and necessary.

Question 33

What does Functionalism ignore according to its critics?

Answer 33

Individual agency and free will.

Question 34

What is an exam tip related to Functionalism?

Answer 34

Be prepared to outline benefits and problems in relation to Education and Crime.