A Level Sociology OCR Practice Exam

What critique do feminists have regarding Murdock's view on family structure?

1. It promotes patriarchal norms

2. It ignores single parenthood

3. It overlooks the mother's role

4. It emphasizes traditional roles

The correct answer is: It overlooks the mother's role

The critique that feminists often articulate regarding Murdock's view on family structure is centered around the notion that his framework significantly minimizes or overlooks the role of mothers within the family. Feminists argue that Murdock's emphasis on traditional family roles tends to reinforce a patriarchal perspective that prioritizes male authority and dominance in family dynamics. By failing to adequately address the complexities and diversities in women's roles, particularly the nurturing and socialization functions that mothers fulfill, Murdock's view may inadvertently support a narrow and biased understanding of family. This perspective highlights that mothers are not merely supportive figures but are essential in shaping both familial relationships and children's development. Feminists advocate for a broader recognition of the diverse experiences and contributions of women within the family, countering the limited view often presented in traditional structural analyses like Murdock's. While other critiques, such as concerns about the promotion of patriarchal norms, the acknowledgment of single parenthood, and the emphasis on traditional roles, are valid, the key feminist response focuses on the undervaluation of the mother's role in family life. Understanding this critique allows for a more nuanced exploration of family structures that includes a richer appreciation of women's contributions beyond traditional expectations.