A Level Sociology OCR Practice Exam

Which statement reflects an aspect of New Right ideology about family?

1. Families are becoming more collectivist

2. Fatherless families are beneficial for children

3. Stability in family structures is crucial

4. All family types offer the same benefits

The correct answer is: Stability in family structures is crucial

The statement that stability in family structures is crucial is a core aspect of New Right ideology regarding the family. New Right thinkers emphasize the importance of traditional family structures, particularly the nuclear family consisting of a married mother and father, as the ideal environment for raising children. They argue that such stability provides a strong foundation for socialization and ensures the well-being of children. New Right proponents often critique variations in family structures, such as single-parent families or cohabiting partnerships, asserting that they can lead to social problems and instability. Therefore, this emphasis on stability directly aligns with their beliefs about the ideal family unit's role in fostering personal and societal values. In contrast to this, other statements reflect perspectives that would not align with New Right views. For example, the idea that families are becoming more collectivist contradicts the New Right's focus on individualism and personal responsibility. Similarly, the beliefs that fatherless families are beneficial for children and that all family types offer the same benefits challenge the New Right's emphasis on traditional family setups and its views on the importance of a two-parent household.