Final answer:
Structural-functional theorists argue that gender roles established historically to ensure a balanced division of labor in families contribute to a stable society. They acknowledge that when societal changes occur, roles may need to be recalibrated to maintain family stability and balance of power between men and women.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to structural-functional theorists, the balance of power between men and women is achieved through the division of labor, where gender roles are established to maintain a stable and functioning family unit. These roles, historically rooted in pre-industrial times, were functional with men handling work outside the home and women taking care of domestic responsibilities. In structural functionalism, each family member playing their part, according to their gender role, ensures family balance and coordination.
However, functionalists also recognize that society must recalibrate roles to maintain family stability when social changes occur, like the inclusion of women in the workforce during and after World War II. This recalibration may include men taking on more responsibilities at home or women becoming wage earners, which can lead to better marital satisfaction and reduced conflict, as both genders contribute to the family's economic function and emotional support. Functionalists argue that strict focus on the family unit and promoting social arrangements that support family preservation are crucial.