Social Structures Worksheet

Social institutions or structures

Functionalist view of this structure

Conflict view of this structure

Interactionist view of this structure

Discuss the view you think best applies to the structure

Family

This perspective looks at the family as a significant institution since if the fundamental building block of the society that performs significant roles of socializing the members and meeting their emotional needs.

The conflict perspective holds that the family results in inequality within society, reinforcing, and maintaining a detrimental status quo.

This perspective looks at the family as an integral part of the society since it rejuvenates and reinforces bonds through representational mechanism rituals, such as holidays and meals.

The functionalists' view on the family is ideal because it emphasizes society's role in developing a productive and vibrant society.

Religion

This perspective looks at religion as a constructive apparatus since it promotes social solidarity and allows society to operate efficiently.

This perspective looks at religion as an oppressive institution that helps to sustain patterns of social inequality.

This perception highlights the significance of religion because of its impact on an individual's physical and psychological well-being.

The interactionist view is ideal for religion since spirituality and religion play an integral role in individuals' physical and psychological well-being.

U.S. healthcare system

From a functionalist view, the U.S. healthcare system is essential because it ensures effective care among society members. Good health is paramount if society is to run effectively.

The perspective suggests that the U.S. healthcare system plays a role in the inequality within society because of the disparity in the quality of healthcare delivery and care services.

This perception approaches healthcare and illnesses as social constructions. The model proposes that mental and physical illnesses have no or little objective reality but are viewed as ill or healthy only if they are described by society.

The functionalists view on healthcare is ideal because it highlights the healthcare system's role in ensuring good health and wholeness in society.

Marriage

Functionalists look at marriage as an essential institution because it leads to the establishment of families that are the basic unit for any society.

According to conflict theorists, marriage demonstrates discrepancies and inequalities in authority and power, particularly when it comes to household labor, which reflects the larger society.

The perspective argues that marriage is based on negotiated meaning. The theory focuses on role definition, role-making, and role identity within family and marriage.

The functionalists view on healthcare is the best because it highlights the importance of marriage in developing a decent society.