Answer to Question 1
b
Answer to Question 2
Conflict and feminist analysts view functionalist perspectives on the role of the family
in society as idealized and inadequate. From the conflict and feminist perspectives,
families do not operate harmoniously and for the benefit of all members, but rather are
the source of social inequality and conflict over values, goals, and access to resources
and power. According to some conflict theorists, families in capitalistic economies are
similar to workers in a factory. Women are dominated by men in the home in the same
manner that workers are dominated by capitalists and managers in factories. Although
childbearing and care for family members in the home contribute to capitalism, these
activities also reinforce the subordination of women through unpaid (and often
devalued) labor. Some feminist perspectives on inequality in families focus on
patriarchy rather than class. Women's activities in the home have been undervalued at
the same time as their labor has been controlled by men. In addition, men have
benefited from the privileges they derive from their status as family breadwinners.
Conflict and feminist perspectives on families focus primarily on the problems inherent
in relationships of dominance and subordination. Specifically, feminist theorists have
developed explanations that take into account the unequal political relationship between
women and men in families and outside of families. Some feminist analysts explain
family violence as a conscious strategy used by men to control women and perpetuate
gender inequality.