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.

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.

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.

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:

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

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

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.