Talcott Parsons and other functionalists argued that the nuclear family was necessary in modern industrial society.Problems with the functionalist argument are highlighted in which of the research findings below?
A) A majority of single mothers on welfare get off of it in two years.
B) Cohabitants who eventually marry have increased divorce rates compared to non-cohabitants who marry.
C) Mundurucu mothers and fathers live in separate homes, eat separate meals, and sleep apart, yet this arrangement is functional for this culture.
D) Research shows that married parents provide better homes for their children than divorced ones.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The Mundurucu culture demonstrates that the nuclear family is not necessary in all societies and that alternate family arrangements can also be functional. This challenges the functionalist argument that the nuclear family is universally necessary. The other options do not directly challenge the functionalist argument.

Talcott Parsons and Other Functionalists Argued That the Nuclear Family