FAML 400 Family Theories & Dynamics, Exam 2
(1) A common criticism of Structural Functionalism. - ANSWER-Its terms, beliefs, and
basic assumptions were never fully developed into what we would consider a formalized
theory.
(1) A critique of Family Systems Theory - ANSWER-This theory is more of a model or
flowchart for conceptualizing and does not qualify as a true theory. The concepts are
too vague for testing and do not use propositions.
(1) A critique of Social Interactionism - ANSWER-The key concepts are confusing,
difficult to define, and difficult to test with research. (Not as relevant today as it was in
the 80s)
(1) A critique of Structural Functionalism - ANSWER-This theory was developed in a
conservative time and reflects the value traits that were popular at the time
(1) An assumption of Family Systems Theory. - ANSWER-The whole is greater than the
sum of its parts and members cannot be examined in isolation.
(1) An assumption of Structural Functionalism - ANSWER-The function of families is to
procreate and socialize children.
(1) An assumption of Symbolic Interactionism - ANSWER-People will react to something
according to the meaning the thing has for them.
(2) A critique of Family Systems Theory - ANSWER-The theory is too global and
abstract.
(2) A critique of Structural Functionalism - ANSWER-This theory confuses "function"
with "cause." It is possible to demonstrate that families perform certain functions that
are necessary for society, it does not necessarily serve as a causal explanation for why
families exist.
(2) A critique of Symbolic Interactionism - ANSWER-The ideas and concepts have not
been combined into one central theory. It is difficult to describe the theory to others and
test its central tenets because they are so diverse.
(2) An assumption of Family Systems Theory. - ANSWER-Individual and family
behavior must be understood in context.
(2) An assumption of Structural Functionalism. - ANSWER-All systems have functions
and the main function of any social system such as the family is to maintain its basic
structure.
, (2) An assumption of Symbolic Interactionism - ANSWER-We learn about meaning
through interactions with others.
(3) A critique of Family Systems Theory - ANSWER-Instead of remembering that this
theory is just a model for understanding, supporters slip into considering it a reality.
(3) A critique of Structural Functionalism - ANSWER-This theory does not adequately
account for change and dysfunction is not dealt with in a helpful way.
(3) A critique of Symbolic Interactionism - ANSWER-This theory does not give enoiugh
attention to either the importance of emotions or the role of the unconscious.
(3) An assumption of Family Systems Theory. - ANSWER-A family is a goal-seeking
system. Goals may be explicit or implicit and family priorities may shift as their
circumstances in the life cycle change.
(3) An assumption of Symbolic Interactionism - ANSWER-As people come into contact
with different things and experiences, they interpret what is being learned.
(4) A critique of Structural Functionalism - ANSWER-Theorists have made the mistake
of assuming that just because something is functioning it deserves to be maintained
(not allowing family structure diversity)
(4) A critique of Symbolic Interactionism - ANSWER-This theory places too much
emphasis on the ability of individuals to create their own realities and does not pay
enough attention to the fact that we live in a world that we do not create by ourselves.
(4) An assumption of Family Systems Theory. - ANSWER-A family is a self-reflexive
and self-regulating system, continually influenced by feedback.
(4) An assumption of Symbolic Interactionism. - ANSWER-A human infant is asocial.
(5) A critique of Symbolic Interactionism - ANSWER-The role of power is often
neglected in this theory.
(5) An assumption of Family Systems Theory. - ANSWER-Family systems are defined
by their communication.
(5) An assumption of Symbolic Interactionism - ANSWER-Once individuals develop a
sense of self, this will provide motivation for future behavior.
(6) A critique of Symbolic Interactionism - ANSWER-This theory lacks attention to the
role of biology.
(6) An assumption of Family Systems Theory - ANSWER-The locus of pathology is not
within the person but is a system dysfunction.
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