FamiliesFamiliesGender RolesFeminismSymmetrical Family
AQA GCSE · Question 11 · Families
Discuss how far sociologists would agree that gender roles are equal in families in Britain today.
How to approach this question
Structure your answer as a debate.
1. **Introduction:** State that there is a debate between the 'march of progress' view and the feminist view.
2. **Arguments FOR equality (March of Progress):** Explain the concept of the 'symmetrical family' (Young and Willmott). Mention the 'new man' and changes in attitudes and female employment.
3. **Arguments AGAINST equality (Feminism):** Explain the feminist critique. Use concepts like the 'double shift' or 'dual burden' (Ann Oakley). Mention that women still do more housework and emotional work. Discuss power and decision-making.
4. **Conclusion:** Summarise the arguments and decide 'how far' roles are equal. A good conclusion will state that while there has been progress, significant inequalities remain, so full equality has not been reached.
Full Answer
This question centres on the 'march of progress' versus the feminist perspective on the family. The 'march of progress' view, associated with functionalists and sociologists like Young and Willmott, sees the modern family as evolving towards greater equality and symmetry. They argue that industrialisation and changing social norms have led to more democratic and companionate relationships. In contrast, feminists argue that the family remains a patriarchal institution. They provide evidence that women continue to bear the primary responsibility for domestic and emotional labour, and that power imbalances persist, often manifesting in areas like finance and domestic abuse.
Common mistakes
A common mistake is to only describe one side of the argument. The question requires a discussion, so both the 'march of progress' and feminist views must be presented and evaluated. Another error is making assertions without supporting them with sociological evidence or concepts.
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