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Structural Functionalism

Structural functionalism views society as a system of interconnected structures and institutions that work together to maintain social equilibrium. It focuses on how these structures contribute positively to the functioning of society as a whole. Individuals and groups are constrained by social structures and norms. When all structures work interdependently, it leads to social stability, progress, and the integration of society. Change is seen as gradual and evolutionary to maintain equilibrium.

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85 views

Structural Functionalism

Structural functionalism views society as a system of interconnected structures and institutions that work together to maintain social equilibrium. It focuses on how these structures contribute positively to the functioning of society as a whole. Individuals and groups are constrained by social structures and norms. When all structures work interdependently, it leads to social stability, progress, and the integration of society. Change is seen as gradual and evolutionary to maintain equilibrium.

Uploaded by

james coloquit
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© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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STRUCTURAL

FUNCTIONALISM
(SF)
SF AS MACRO-SOCIAL
PERSPECTIVE
Focuses on the institutions and
structures that exist in society as a whole
Functionalist analysis looks at society as
composed of structures with their own
functions
SF AS MACRO-SOCIAL
PERSPECTIVE
Interconnections among these
structures exist
Individuals or groups are constrained
by the structures
Society is likened to organism
FUNCTION
Different parts of society contribute
positively to the operation and
maintenance of the entire system
Agency carry out their tasks in the context
of society that is align or consistent with
norms, values and structure
FUNCTION
Goods and services are
produced/manufactured in order to satisfy
the needs of the consumers; the institution
of family plays the role of procreation;
political system exist to maintain peace
and order among others
INTERDEPENDENCE AND
SOCIAL EQUILIBRIUM
Every social structure is interdependent with one
another
Different parts of society work together work
together in an orderly fashion to attain social
stability, progress, development, integration
There is social equilibrium, consensus and not
conflict among the social structures.
EVOLUTIONARY CHANGE
 Change is gradual and evolutionary (not revolutionary, not
cataclysmic, not abrupt)
 Conflicts and other external forces could prime social
change but these are just adjustments to attain further
equilibrium and stability.
 As development or change happens, the different parts of
society tend to be more differentiated in terms of their
functions.
A.G.I.L. (PARSONS)
A complex of activities
directed towards meeting
a need or needs of the
system- Rocher, 1975:40
AGIL (PARSONS)
 Adaptation – a system must cope with external situational exigencies. It must
adapt to its environment and adapt the environment to its needs.
 Goal Attainment – a system must define and achieve its primary goals
 Integration – a system must regulate the interrelationship of its component
parts. It also must manage the relationship among other three functional
imperatives.
 Latency – a system must furnish, maintain, and renew both the motivation of
individuals and the cultural patterns that create and sustain the motivation.
FUNCTIONS: MERTON
“those observed consequences which
make for the adaptation or adjustment
of a given system.
MANIFEST – intended function
LATENT – unintended function

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