Question- What are the important functions or responsibilities of Family?

Answer -

Family performs a number of functions in society. An individual and society at large and highly dependent upon the family for the fulfilment of their basic requirements. If these needs of the individual and society are not met properly, the very survival of both would be at risk. Therefore, the functions carried out by the family acquire immense significance. The important functions of family are being discussed here :

(1) Biological Functions : Biological functions of the family are of varied types :

(a) The first and foremost biological function of family is the gratification of sexual desires of husband and wife in an orderly and socially approved manner.

(b) The next important biological function is giving birth to children. In the form of a child, the family gets a new generation which inherits the family legacy. The human race is perpetuated in this manner by continuous addition of new members born in families all over the world.

(c) Providing physical protection to its members in all circumstances is yet another biological function of the family. Physical care and protection of every member right from the new-born baby to the old and sick member is an essential function of family. In short, the family takes upon itself the responsibility to keep its members physically fit and mentally alert.

(2) Economic Function : Family fulfills the economic needs of its members to a certain extent by providing them food, clothing and shelter till they become self-reliant. The head of the family takes up a job, business or occupation and meets the requirement of other members out of his earning. Sometimes, the family members collectively pursue a family occupation such as family business, cultivation, cattle rearing, cottage industry etc. This collective effort provides employment as well as income to all members of the family.

The other economic function is that the family provides successors, of the assets and liabilities of family, in the form of children.

(3) Socialization of Children : It is one of the most important functions of the family to look after children and bring them up according to the culture of society. Family ensures that in the process of socialization i.e., social learning, the child becomes aware of the material as well as non-material aspects of culture. The child learns language, customs, etiquette, norms and values, beliefs and social roles. All these aspects are part of non-material culture. The knowledge about material culture which includes techniques of food-production, house-building, musical instruments and so on are also imparted to the younger generation in the process of socialization.

For the proper socialization of children, the conduct of the socializing agent, i.e., mother, father and other relatives must be proper and affectionate. Only then does the child learn the norms of society willingly and completely.

(4) Psychological Function : Human beings want love and affection of their fellow humans right from infancy to old age. Attention and care of the family members provides emotional support, stability and security to a person. He feels assured that at least his family members are there to take care of him in goods as well as bad circumstances.

The individual, in turn, devotes his time, energy and money to his family members. He toils hard for his family and dies one day leaving everything to them.

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