Final answer:
Talcott Parsons, a functionalist, viewed families as socially important institutions that help stabilize society. He emphasized the family's role in regulating sexual activity, strengthening spousal relationships, and ensuring the proper socialization of children. He also noted the shift of certain familial functions, like sexuality education, to educational institutions.
Step-by-step explanation:
What does functionalist Talcott Parsons argue about the family? Talcott Parsons, a renowned functionalist sociologist, provides a comprehensive understanding of the family's role within society. According to Parsons, families are pivotal social institutions that contribute to the stabilization and ongoing prosperity of society. He accentuates that family members undertake status roles within the family unit while performing essential functions for both the internal dynamics of the family and society at large.
Parsons argued that families are crucial for the regulation of sexual activity, maintaining the norm that sexual relations should occur within the confines of marriage. This encourages a strong bond between spouses and ensures that children are born into stable, supportive environments, which is essential for their appropriate socialization and access to resources. The family unit thus plays a central role in maintaining social order and providing both physical and emotional support to its members.
Furthermore, functionalists note that in modern times, schools have begun to take on some functions traditionally served by the family, such as offering education about human sexuality and life skills like budgeting and preparing for job applications. This shift reflects the evolving nature of how societies fulfill various functions that support individual development and societal well-being.