Structural Functional Approach Flashcards, test questions and answers

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What is Structural Functional Approach?

The Structural Functional Approach is a sociological theory that suggests society is made up of different parts, and each part has a purpose or function. This approach emphasizes the ways in which society works together to meet the needs of its members. It views society as being organized into parts that work together, such as families, groups, organizations, and institutions. Each part has a specific function that contributes to maintaining social order and stability. The Structural Functional Approach emphasizes how all parts of society are interconnected and dependent on each other for survival and progress. For example, families provide stability in the home but also provide economic support through labor or income-producing activities. Groups serve as an intermediary between individuals and larger societies; they help people meet their goals by providing resources or opportunities for collective action. Organizations are established to carry out specific tasks related to production, distribution, regulation etc., while institutions like religion and education provide guidance on moral issues and ensure continuity in beliefs across generations. The Structural Functional Approach was developed by sociologist Talcott Parsons in the 1940s. He argued that all elements of society are interdependent- meaning one element cannot exist without affecting other elements -and must be understood within a holistic framework. Additionally , this perspective emphasizes the importance of shared norms , values , roles , statuses etc. for creating social cohesion. It suggests that change can be beneficial if it does not disrupt existing structures too drastically. In conclusion , The Structural Functional Approach is a powerful tool for understanding how social systems operate. By looking at how different structures interact with each other it can help us understand why certain changes within communities can bring about positive outcomes while others may have negative consequences.