P.F.D.-McCann

Roles and Functions of the Family

Each member of the family has special roles to play in the family such as parent, sibling, spouse.

The behaviors of people in these roles vary from family to family.

Roles can be…Inherited –some roles are inherited-

like daughter because you are a girl, sibling because you are 2nd born

Assigned –parents can assign a role like babysitter to the oldest child

Chosen-some roles are chosen-like family cook

The family functions as an interactive unit.

This unit provides for the physical, mental, emotional, social and spiritual well-being of its members.

Procreation - the bearing of children

Parents have kids as an expression of their love for each other

They want to have someone carry on their heritage and traditions

The birth of children assure the continuation of society

Society and procreationChildren grow up and become

adult that join the workforce These young adults work and

keep the economy goingThey also have kids and the

cycle repeats itself

Physical CareFamilies provide food, clothing,

shelter, medical care and a safe environment for its members.

Society helps the family with physical needs

Examples of help from society to the family are food stamps, public housing, Medicare/Medicaid, and charitable programs like the YMCA or local missions like HAAM

Socialization The family teaches its children to

conform to social standards. As parents socialize their children, they act as authority figures in the home teaching limits and appropriate behavior.

Education is also a part of socialization. Both moral and intellectual education are important for children.

Society helps the familyAs children grow and age, society

provides educational resources: K-12 schools, colleges and universities, vocational and technical schools, and apprenticeships.

Emotional SupportThe most critical function of

families in today’s society is the emotional support of family members.

Parents provide and teach love, guidance, comfort, reassurance and forgiveness.

Society and Emotional SupportThere are many agencies and

individuals that provide information, care and support for family members.

Churches often provide counseling, Engagement and Marriage Encounter seminars, parenting classes

Therapist, Counselors, and Mental Health specialists also provide emotional assistance