Solution
David answered on
Dec 23 2021
Introduction – What is family?
According to Charles B. Nam, Family is the key concept of social science and is regarded as
a major social institution. Family refers to a form of social unit that is formed by ma
iage,
lood or adoption, and traditionally it can either be regarded as extended or nuclear. Over the
years, there has been significant amount of transformation in the traditional structure of the
families. Classical families have witnessed a sharp reduction, and have taken a back seat.
While the modern families i.e. one-parent family, childless family, and other various family
configurations have emerged prominently (Charles, 2004).
However, traditional families remain the backbone of the society, and still guide the cultural
traditions for the newer generations. According to G.P Murdock, family can be defined as a
social entity or group that is characterized by reproduction, economic cooperation and
common residences. He further adds that a family consists of at least two adults of opposite
sexes along with one or more children who are either adopted or result of their socially
approved sexual behaviour (Sociology Guide, 2011).
History of the family?
According to various social statistics and historians, family can be regarded as an institution
and not a biological fact. The foundation of family is based on the natural relationship of
lood relation or consanguinity. Friedrich Engels in his book “The Origin of the Family,
Private Property and the State” stated that various economical factors contributed to the
transformation of primitive community into society divided by class.
Functions of family
According to Friedman, family helps an individual by providing him with the necessary
environment that helps in their development and interactions. Following are the four major
functions of a family (Nursing crib, 2009):
a. Physical function: It provides a comfortable and safe environment to its members
which is very much essential for their development, growth and well being
. Economic function: Besides providing the monetary support to the members, family
also provides monetary support and financial aid to its members
c. Reproductive function: It also socializes the birth of children
d. Socialization function: This is amongst the major and most important functions of
family which relates to the overall development of the members of the family i.e.
transmission of values, belief, helping in resolution of problems etc
Characteristics – Main characteristics of family
Following are the key characteristics of family (Sociology Guide, 2011):
a. Universality: According to Malinowski, no human society exists without appearance
of family. A typical family compromises of father, mother and their children, which is
common across all communities, religions and...