A Level Sociology OCR Practice Exam

In Parsons' view, what is the primary function of the male role in the family?

1. Emotional nurturing

2. Providing economic support and discipline

3. Maintaining household duties

4. Creating a warm family environment

The correct answer is: Providing economic support and discipline

The view that the primary function of the male role in the family is providing economic support and discipline aligns with Parsons' perspective on family dynamics. He argued that in traditional nuclear families, the male role is instrumental, focusing primarily on being the breadwinner and ensuring financial stability for the family unit. This role also encompasses maintaining order and providing a sense of discipline, which is crucial for the functioning of the family unit. Parsons believed that this division of labor, where the male is responsible for economic provision and the female is typically associated with more nurturing roles, reflects a broader social structure where each member contributes to the stability and efficiency of the family. This understanding of gender roles reinforces traditional perspectives on familial function, where the male role is seen not only in terms of economic contributions but also in guiding discipline within the household. Other roles, like emotional nurturing or maintaining household duties, are typically associated with the female role in Parsons' framework. The focus on creating a warm family environment is also more aligned with the responsibilities that Parsons attributes to women within the family structure.