A Level Sociology OCR Practice Exam

What are some criticisms of Murdock's beliefs about family?

1. Too modern and innovative

2. Fails to recognize diverse family structures

3. Overemphasis on child roles

4. Exclusively historical in nature

The correct answer is: Fails to recognize diverse family structures

Murdock's beliefs about family are critiqued for failing to recognize the diversity of family structures that exist in contemporary society. He proposed a universal nuclear family model, which emphasizes a two-parent household with children. However, this perspective overlooks the validity and significance of various family forms, such as single-parent families, extended families, cohabitating couples without children, same-sex families, and families formed through alternative arrangements. In a modern sociological context, the traditional notion of the nuclear family is seen as limiting and not fully representative of the variations and complexities in family life today. Scholars highlight how societal changes, such as evolving gender roles, increasing acceptance of different relationships, and the impact of cultural diversity, challenge the idea that the nuclear family should be considered the norm. By not accounting for these different structures and experiences, Murdock's theory could be seen as outdated, failing to reflect the reality of contemporary family dynamics and the societal factors influencing them.