Symmetry in the Contemporary British Family: A Sociological Debate

The concept of the symmetrical family, characterized by equal division of labor and shared decision-making between partners, has sparked intense debate within sociology. This essay critically evaluates the extent to which sociologists would agree that families in Britain today are truly symmetrical, examining perspectives from functionalism, feminism, and the influential work of Willmott and Young.

Functionalist and Feminist Perspectives on Family Symmetry

Functionalists, like Parsons (1955), argue that the family operates most effectively with clear-cut divisions of labor. They view the husband as the instrumental leader, focusing on economic provision, while the wife assumes the expressive role, nurturing children and providing emotional support. This perspective suggests an inherent asymmetry within the family structure, essential for societal stability.

Conversely, feminists challenge this notion of naturalized roles. They highlight the persistence of patriarchy within family life, arguing that traditional divisions of labor benefit men while perpetuating female subordination. Ann Oakley (1974) criticizes the concept of the symmetrical family as a myth, arguing that women still bear the brunt of domestic labor and childcare despite increasing participation in paid employment. The "dual burden" or even "triple shift," encompassing paid work, housework, and emotional labor, highlights the unequal distribution of responsibilities within many families.

Willmott and Young's Theory of Stratified Diffusion

Willmott and Young (1973) offer a more optimistic view of family life. Their theory of "stratified diffusion" suggests that social changes, like increased gender equality, filter down through social classes. They argue that the symmetrical family, characterized by shared leisure time and joint conjugal roles, is becoming increasingly common, starting with higher social classes and gradually diffusing downwards.

Evaluating the Evidence: Persistence and Change in Family Dynamics

While Willmott and Young's work provided valuable insights, it has been criticized for methodological limitations and potentially romanticized views of family life. Critics argue that their research relied heavily on subjective accounts of housework allocation, potentially masking underlying inequalities.

Furthermore, contemporary evidence suggests that despite some shifts towards greater equality, traditional role relationships persist. Women continue to undertake a disproportionate share of domestic labor, even when employed full-time. The "new man," actively involved in housework and childcare, remains somewhat elusive. While some men are undoubtedly taking on more domestic responsibilities, cultural expectations and ingrained gender norms continue to shape family dynamics.

Conclusion: A Complex Reality of Symmetry and Asymmetry

In conclusion, sociologists are far from reaching a consensus on the extent to which families in Britain today are symmetrical. While functionalist perspectives emphasize the importance of distinct roles for societal stability, feminists highlight the enduring impact of patriarchy and unequal divisions of labor within the home. Willmott and Young's theory of stratified diffusion offers a more optimistic outlook, suggesting a gradual shift towards symmetry, but this view is tempered by evidence of persistent inequalities.

Ultimately, contemporary families exist on a spectrum of symmetry and asymmetry. While progress has been made towards greater equality in some aspects of family life, traditional gender roles continue to exert a powerful influence, shaping the distribution of power and responsibilities within many British households. Further research is needed to fully understand the complex interplay of social, economic, and cultural factors shaping the evolving dynamics of family life in the 21st century.