Sudhir KumarAIR 42 · CSE 2017 · 245 wordsTheir whole copy
Opening
Talcott Parsons gave a functional fit theory of nuclear family. George Peter Murdock suggested four functions of nuclear family -
Body · points
a) satisfaction of sex drive within accepted norms b) Biological reproduction c) socialization of young d) Meeting members' economic needs.
Parsons gave a evolutionary theory of family according to various society type. He gave following reasons - a) Nuclear family provides geographical mobility, which is requirement of industries. b) Less need for extended family as more functions like health, education are being done by state. c) Nuclear family provides a calm place for 'worker' to rest to become ready for next day work as it rids him of familial obligations.
However, his functional fit theory is heavily criticized - i) Only 10% of households contain extended kin even before industrialization.
ii) Young and Wilmott found that extended kin network are still strong in London.
iii) Parsons focussed only on household dimension of family, based on residence; he neglected the relationship aspect of family, based on ties and mutual attachment.
iv) Parsons view neglect exploitation and subjugation of women.
v) Sexual division of labour as existing in nuclear family is different in today's world from Parsons conception.
vi) Parsons and Murdock theory of functional fit is too deterministic. On the contrary, due to increasing cost of living in cities, families are supporting their kins. Also, assumption that nuclear family is best way of socializing children for capitalism is wrong founded as various agents shape child's personality.
Close · no separate close
None written.