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Structural Functionalism

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.

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Structural Functionalism

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  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. 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. Dr. Ronald J. Werner-Wilson

  3. 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. Dr. Ronald J. Werner-Wilson

  4. 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: • Instrumental: task-oriented duties such as breadwinner role. • Expressive: person-oriented duties such as nurturing. • Deviance from roles, according to Parsons, contributed to family disorganization. Dr. Ronald J. Werner-Wilson

  5. 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. Dr. Ronald J. Werner-Wilson

  6. 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. Dr. Ronald J. Werner-Wilson

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