Identify one function of the family and explain how you would investigate this function using a case study.
AQA
GCSE
2021
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Outline: Investigating the Economic Function of the Family Through Case Study
Introduction:
Briefly introduce the concept of family and its functions. • State the chosen function: Economic. • Define the economic function, highlighting aspects like financial support, resource allocation, and inheritance. • Thesis statement: This essay will explore the economic function of the family through a case study, utilizing [chosen methodological approach] to gather data and comparing it with secondary sources for comprehensive analysis.
Case Study Selection and Methodology:
Case Study Selection:
• Rationale for selecting a specific type of family structure (e.g., single-parent, nuclear, extended) based on its relevance to the economic function. • Justification for choosing a willing participant family considering diversity (e.g., socioeconomic background, ethnicity) to avoid bias and enhance representativeness.
Methodological Approach:
• Select and justify the most appropriate method(s): • Interviews: Structured or semi-structured, eliciting in-depth information on financial management, income sources, spending patterns, and financial goals. • Observation: Participant observation within the family setting to gain firsthand insights into their daily economic practices and decision-making processes. • Combination: Explain the rationale for combining methods to gain a more holistic understanding.
Ethical Considerations:
• Discuss the importance of informed consent: Ensuring participants understand the research purpose, their rights, and the implications of participation. • Emphasize confidentiality and anonymity: Protecting the family's identity and sensitive financial information. • Address potential harm and offer support mechanisms if sensitive financial issues arise during the research.
Data Analysis & Triangulation:
• Explain the process of data analysis: • Qualitative Data (Interviews, Observations): Identifying recurring themes, patterns, and contradictions related to the economic function. • Quantitative Data (if applicable): Analyzing numerical data like income, expenses, savings, and debts to support qualitative findings.
• Triangulation: • Compare and contrast case study findings with secondary sources (e.g., sociological studies, economic data reports, government policies on family support) to validate and contextualize the results.
Discussion and Conclusion:
• Analyze the identified patterns and trends in the family's economic practices. • Discuss how the findings support or challenge existing theories and research on the economic function of families. • Relate the findings to broader societal contexts, considering factors like economic inequality, social mobility, and government policies. • Summarize the key insights gained about the economic function of the family through the case study approach.
Limitations:
• Acknowledge the limitations of a single case study in terms of generalizability. • Discuss potential biases and the need for further research with diverse family structures and backgrounds to strengthen the findings.
Investigating the Economic Function of the Family: A Case Study Approach
The family, as a fundamental social institution, performs a variety of crucial functions. This essay focuses on the economic function, exploring how families manage resources, contribute to the economy, and navigate financial challenges. To investigate this, a case study approach will be employed, utilizing a combination of interviews and secondary data analysis, while addressing relevant ethical considerations.
Case Study Selection and Methodology
The ideal candidates for this case study are two families residing in the same geographic area but belonging to different socioeconomic backgrounds: one experiencing financial stability and the other facing economic hardship. This selection allows for a comparative analysis, highlighting the diverse ways families engage with their economic realities.
Data will be collected through semi-structured interviews conducted with both families. Questions will delve into topics such as:
- Household income sources and distribution
- Financial responsibilities and decision-making processes
- Impact of economic circumstances on family dynamics
- Coping mechanisms and support systems in place
To ensure ethical research, informed consent will be obtained from all participants, guaranteeing their anonymity and the confidentiality of shared information. They will be made aware of their right to withdraw from the study at any point.
Triangulation and Data Analysis
Collected interview data will be analyzed alongside relevant secondary sources. This triangulation process enhances the study's validity and provides a broader context for interpretation. Secondary sources will include:
- Statistical data on local income levels, unemployment rates, and housing costs
- Government policies and social welfare programs impacting families
- Academic literature on the economic function of the family and socioeconomic disparities
The analysis will focus on identifying patterns and trends within and across the two case study families. This includes comparing their experiences, highlighting the influence of socioeconomic factors on financial practices, and examining the strategies employed to fulfill their economic needs.
Conclusion
By combining in-depth qualitative data from the case studies with quantitative data from secondary sources, this research aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the economic function of the family. It will shed light on the diverse ways families manage their resources, navigate financial challenges, and contribute to the larger economy. Furthermore, by acknowledging ethical considerations and ensuring participant anonymity, the study prioritizes the responsible and respectful collection of sensitive personal information.
Free Mark Scheme Extracts
Functions of the Family
• Economic
• Primary socialisation
• Reproductive
• Sexual
• Stabilisation of adult personalities
Conducting a Case Study
• Identify an appropriate family or families who would be willing to be the subject of a case study.
• Select an appropriate methodological approach eg interviews, observation or a combination of methods.
• Take account of relevant ethical issues eg confidentiality.
• Compare case study data with relevant secondary sources (triangulation).
• Analyse the data looking at patterns and trends relating to the selected function.