Functionalism

Organized to perform it's functions effectively

Change is viewed as disruptive and gradual

Emile Durkheim

-A founding father of functionalism

Talcott Parsons

-American Social Theorist

Functionalist families have three main functions within society:

1. Physical protection of its members

2. Emotional well being of its members

3. Socialization of new members

Sociological Theory

William James

-One of the founding fathers of functional psychology

Equilibrium

People fulfill their roles = Society runs smoothly

Each member of a functionalist family has a status that also comes with a role

-(Husband/Father, Wife/Mother, and Child)

Uses macro approach