Feb March 2023 Paper 22

AS Level Sociology 9699/22 February/March 2023

Question 1: Describe two features of a nuclear family. [4]

One feature of a nuclear family is that it consists of two parents and their children living together in the same household. This typically involves a heterosexual couple with one or more biological or adopted children, forming a two-generation unit that is relatively independent from extended relatives.

Another feature is that the nuclear family is traditionally isolated from the extended family. This means that it operates as a self-contained unit, with limited involvement from grandparents or other relatives, focusing on privacy and independence within the household.

Question 2(a): Explain two ways social policies may influence family life. [8]

One way social policies influence family life is by regulating divorce. Laws that make divorce easier, such as reducing the legal requirements or costs involved, can increase divorce rates by allowing individuals to leave unhappy marriages more easily. Conversely, policies that make divorce more difficult can discourage separation and promote family stability.

Another way is through welfare policies that provide financial support to families. These policies can help individuals, particularly single parents, to support themselves without relying on a partner. This can lead to an increase in family diversity, as people are more able to form and maintain alternative family structures such as lone-parent households.

Written and Compiled By Sir Hunain Zia (AYLOTI), World Record Holder With 154 Total A Grades, 7 Distinctions and 11 World Records For Educate A Change AS Level Sociology Full Scale Course

Question 2(b): Explain one strength and one limitation of New Right views of the family. [6]

One strength of New Right views is that they highlight the importance of the nuclear family in providing effective socialisation for children. They argue that a stable family with both parents, particularly a male role model, helps children develop discipline and appropriate social behaviour, which contributes to social stability.

One limitation is that New Right perspectives fail to recognise the value of family diversity. They tend to idealise the nuclear family and overlook the fact that other family types, such as single-parent or same-sex families, can also provide supportive and stable environments for children.

Question 3(a): ‘Men continue to dominate family life.’ Explain this view. [10]

The view that men continue to dominate family life suggests that power and authority within the family remain largely in the hands of men.

One way this is evident is through decision-making power. Research suggests that men often make the most important decisions, particularly regarding finances, while women are more involved in minor household decisions. This indicates an unequal distribution of power within the family.

Another way is through the division of labour. Women typically perform the majority of unpaid domestic work and childcare, even when they are employed. This reinforces male dominance by limiting women’s opportunities and maintaining traditional gender roles.

Written and Compiled By Sir Hunain Zia (AYLOTI), World Record Holder With 154 Total A Grades, 7 Distinctions and 11 World Records For Educate A Change AS Level Sociology Full Scale Course

Additionally, domestic violence can be seen as an extreme form of male dominance. Feminist sociologists argue that such violence is used to maintain control and power over women, highlighting the persistence of patriarchal structures within the family.

Question 3(b): ‘Men continue to dominate family life.’ Using sociological material, give one argument against this view. [6]

One argument against this view is that there has been an increase in symmetrical families, where roles are more equally shared between men and women. Sociological research suggests that men are becoming more involved in childcare and housework, leading to a more balanced distribution of responsibilities and reducing male dominance within the family.

Question 4: Evaluate the view that motherhood is different today than in the past. [26]

The view that motherhood is different today than in the past suggests that the role, expectations and experiences of mothers have significantly changed over time.

One argument supporting this view is the increasing participation of women in the workforce. In modern societies, many mothers are employed and may also act as breadwinners, which contrasts with the traditional role of full-time homemakers. This shift reflects changing social norms and greater gender equality.

Another supporting point is that motherhood is now seen as a choice rather than an obligation. Women have greater control over reproduction and career decisions, allowing them to delay or avoid motherhood altogether. This reflects the influence of individualisation, where personal fulfilment is prioritised over traditional roles.

The role of fathers has also changed, with more men participating in childcare. This reduces the exclusivity of motherhood and indicates a move towards shared parenting responsibilities.

Written and Compiled By Sir Hunain Zia (AYLOTI), World Record Holder With 154 Total A Grades, 7 Distinctions and 11 World Records For Educate A Change AS Level Sociology Full Scale Course

Additionally, childcare is increasingly outsourced to institutions such as nurseries and childminders, allowing mothers to pursue careers. This further transforms the traditional role of motherhood.

However, there are arguments against this view. In many societies, traditional expectations of motherhood remain strong, with women expected to prioritise childcare over their careers. This suggests that the role of motherhood has not changed as much as some claim.

Even when mothers are employed, they often take on a ‘dual burden’ of paid work and domestic responsibilities. This indicates that traditional gender roles still influence family life.

Cultural differences also show that motherhood is not universally changing. In some societies, the role remains highly traditional, with clear expectations for women to focus on family and childcare.

Written and Compiled By Sir Hunain Zia (AYLOTI), World Record Holder With 154 Total A Grades, 7 Distinctions and 11 World Records For Educate A Change AS Level Sociology Full Scale Course

Furthermore, social policies such as maternity leave can reinforce traditional roles by positioning women as primary caregivers.

In evaluation, while motherhood has undergone significant changes in many modern societies, these changes are not universal. Traditional expectations and inequalities persist, meaning that motherhood is both changing and remaining the same depending on context.

Question 5: Evaluate the view that the main role of the family is to promote social stability. [26]

The view that the main role of the family is to promote social stability is strongly associated with functionalist sociology, which sees the family as essential for maintaining order in society.

One argument supporting this view is that the family socialises children into shared norms and values. Through primary socialisation, children learn acceptable behaviour, ensuring they grow into responsible members of society. This helps maintain social cohesion and stability.

Another supporting point is the stabilisation of adult personalities. The family provides emotional support to adults, helping them cope with stress and remain productive. This contributes to the smooth functioning of society.

The family also plays a role in maintaining the workforce by reproducing and raising the next generation. This ensures economic stability and continuity within society.

Written and Compiled By Sir Hunain Zia (AYLOTI), World Record Holder With 154 Total A Grades, 7 Distinctions and 11 World Records For Educate A Change AS Level Sociology Full Scale Course

Additionally, Marxist perspectives argue that the family contributes to social stability by maintaining capitalism. It socialises individuals into accepting inequality and supports consumerism, which benefits the economic system.

However, there are arguments against this view. Feminist sociologists argue that the family promotes inequality and oppression, particularly for women. This creates conflict rather than stability, challenging the functionalist perspective.

Marxists also argue that the family can be a site of exploitation, where the ruling class benefits at the expense of the working class. This suggests that the family may contribute to social inequality rather than stability.

Postmodernists challenge the idea of a single main role, arguing that family life is too diverse to be explained by one function. Different families serve different purposes depending on individual needs.

Written and Compiled By Sir Hunain Zia (AYLOTI), World Record Holder With 154 Total A Grades, 7 Distinctions and 11 World Records For Educate A Change AS Level Sociology Full Scale Course

Furthermore, conflict within families, such as domestic violence or disagreements, shows that the family does not always promote stability.

In evaluation, while the family plays an important role in maintaining social stability, it is not its only function and may also contribute to conflict and inequality. Therefore, the view is only partially valid.