Question

Use the functionalist theory to explain why gender roles are functional for society. After explaining the functions of gender roles, explain how they can be problematic.

Answer 1

Functionalist theory proposes that society is a complex system with various parts and that all the parts function and work together to maintain solidarity and stability. These roles are already fixed and thus creating a conflict between the members. For example a traditional functional view is that men should work and women should take care of the family. As the society progressed, women also started working but they are still not treated equally in terms of pay, in terms respect and in terms of promotion. Men take over most of the powerful roles in society and politics and suggested that women may not be able to do certain types of jobs. They are still discriminated and struggle against all the odds. The functionalist view thus poses problems in terms of gender roles.