FUNCTIONS of the Family

What is the PURPOSE of family…. Families serve many different

purposes or functions in our lives. Families provide the following

purposes/functions for the younger generations:

How to Socialize How to Meet Physical Needs How to Meet Emotional Needs Influence Roles in Society

How to Socialize? Families are initially responsible for

teaching their children how to socialize.

Families should teach their children the “standards of society”, meaning what is acceptable verses unacceptable behavior.

Families should teach, train, and provide examples of good social behavior.

How to Meet Physical Needs? Families are responsible for providing

care and protection for family members.

Families should provide food, clothing, shelter, and protection from injury, harm, and disease.

Families provide this need but also need to PRODUCE—like show how to cook, clean, eat healthy, take care of clothes, etc.

How to meet Emotional Needs? Families provide companionship for one

another. Remember, family is our first intimate relationship.

Families help a person develop close relationships and learn how to talk, listen, resolve conflict, and be part of a group.

Families show a person how to LOVE—what it looks like to be loved and love another in return.

Influence Roles in Society Families influence the path a person takes

in society. Your future role in society is influenced

by your family’s values, meaning how much VALUE is placed on education, career satisfaction, and financial stability.

Your family also gives you a cultural identity. The “group” you identify your language, religion, dress, food, and celebrations with is often your family.

Questions to Ponder….. What is the benefit to society if children

are taught the “standards of society”? What other “needs” might a family fulfill

for its members? Do all families share the same success

in meeting physical needs? Why or why not?

How might your family influence the goals you want to reach in the future?