Which perspective argues that traditional gender roles contribute to the stability of the family?

Functionalism is a perspective in sociology that emphasizes the role of social institutions and phenomena in maintaining the stability and equilibrium of society. According to this view, traditional gender roles are seen as beneficial because they help to define the expectations and responsibilities of individuals within the family unit. These roles can lead to a smoother functioning of the family as each member knows their expected duties, which can reduce conflict and promote cooperation.

For instance, functionalists argue that by having distinct roles—often where men are seen as breadwinners and women as caregivers—families can efficiently fulfill essential functions such as socialization of children, emotional support, and economic stability. This stability is crucial for the larger societal structure, as strong family units are thought to lead to a well-functioning society.

On the other hand, feminism often critiques traditional gender roles for contributing to inequality rather than stability, suggesting that such roles maintain systems of oppression. The concept of the gender wage gap highlights economic disparities between genders, which does not inherently relate to family stability but rather to workplace inequalities. Hegemonic masculinity refers to the societal norms that elevate certain male behaviors and attributes, but it does not directly address family stability in the same way functionalism does.