How do Functionalist and Marxist perceptions of the family differ?

Functionalists view the family and its contribution to society as positive, whereas Marxits see it as a negative institution. 

Functionalists see the nuclear family as essential for social order. They view it as providing adequate socialisation and economic support essential for cohesion. The family therefore helps to maintain a harmonious society that functionalists value.

However Marxists argue that the family reproduces oppression. The working class are unable to provide adequate opportunities to their children. This allows the ruling class to maintain power as the family as an institution is like a trap for the working class.

IW
Answered by Isobel W. Sociology tutor

30089 Views

See similar Sociology GCSE tutors

Related Sociology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What is the functionalist perspective in sociology?


What does it mean when we say childhood is a 'social construct'?


What is "The correspondence principle" and how does it work?


What is cultural deprivation in Education?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences