Question 9

Marriage and family are viewed as a source of power struggles between its members according to the conflict perspective.

The conflict perspective emphasizes that marriage and family dynamics are often characterized by power disparities and conflicts among members, highlighting the struggles for resources, authority, and control within familial relationships.

A) The family is universal.

This statement is incorrect in the context of the conflict perspective, which does not focus on the universality of family structures but rather on the inherent conflicts and inequalities that can exist within them. Although the family is a common institution across cultures, this perspective critiques its function rather than simply acknowledging its presence.

B) The family functions to ensure the survival of society.

While this statement may reflect a functionalist view of the family, it is not aligned with the conflict perspective. The conflict perspective critiques the idea that families serve a purely beneficial role for society, instead suggesting that they can perpetuate inequalities and struggles for power among their members.

C) The family is a source of power struggles between its members.

This statement accurately reflects the conflict perspective, which posits that familial relationships are often marked by competition and conflict over resources, roles, and authority. The theory asserts that these power struggles can lead to broader social inequalities and tensions within society.

D) The family fulfills the need for recreation.

This statement is not aligned with the conflict perspective, which does not focus on the recreational aspects of family life. Instead, it critiques the underlying power dynamics and conflicts that can overshadow other functions of the family, such as leisure and recreation.

Conclusion

The correct answer, C, highlights the conflict perspective's focus on the power struggles within family structures, emphasizing that these dynamics can lead to significant social implications. Options A, B, and D either misrepresent the conflict perspective or reflect alternative viewpoints that do not address the inherent conflicts associated with family relationships.