Which statement is a criticism of the functionalist view of the family?

Which statement is a criticism of the functionalist view of the family?

• A. It is too radical and utopian
• B. It ignores exploitation of women and gender inequality
• C. It overemphasizes conflict
• D. It is too focused on economic class

Answer: (B)

Focusing on how functionalist views of the family handle gender relations, the main idea tested is that the family is seen as a stable unit contributing to social order. A key criticism is that this perspective ignores how power and gender inequality operate inside the home. By portraying domestic life as natural and harmonious, it downplays the exploitation of women and the unequal division of labour and decision-making power. Feminist thinkers argue that this blind spot allows patriarchy to be reproduced within the family. The other criticisms don’t fit as well because being “too radical,” “overemphasizing conflict,” or being “too focused on class” are more associated with other theories; the strongest point against functionalism here is its neglect of gender inequality.

Focusing on how functionalist views of the family handle gender relations, the main idea tested is that the family is seen as a stable unit contributing to social order. A key criticism is that this perspective ignores how power and gender inequality operate inside the home. By portraying domestic life as natural and harmonious, it downplays the exploitation of women and the unequal division of labour and decision-making power. Feminist thinkers argue that this blind spot allows patriarchy to be reproduced within the family. The other criticisms don’t fit as well because being “too radical,” “overemphasizing conflict,” or being “too focused on class” are more associated with other theories; the strongest point against functionalism here is its neglect of gender inequality.