outline four functions of the nuclear family

Murdock argues that the nuclear family performs four essential functions for society and for its members , he argues that the family satisfies members economic needs, is essential for primary socialisation of the young which enables them to share society's norms and values. The family is also stable satisfaction of the sex drive which prevents social disruption, finally Murdock argues the family is responsible for reproduction of the next generation, allowing society to exist. By performing these functions, the nuclear family helps to maintain social stability.