Abstract
Let me begin by briefly explaining the term ‘structural functionalism’ by taking each word in turn. ‘Structuralist’ sociological approaches are those which assert that the behaviour of people in society is structured according to a set of rules or laws. Evidence for this assertion is based on the observation that people do not act randomly; instead, their behaviour, including their social interactions, is patterned. Thus the aim of the sociologist is to identify the laws that structure our behaviour.
This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution.
Preview
Unable to display preview. Download preview PDF.
Copyright information
© 1998 Sam Porter
About this chapter
Cite this chapter
Porter, S. (1998). Structural functionalism and role theory. In: Social Theory and Nursing Practice. Sociology and Nursing Practice Series. Palgrave, London. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-349-14441-9_2
Download citation
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-349-14441-9_2
Publisher Name: Palgrave, London
Print ISBN: 978-0-333-69197-7
Online ISBN: 978-1-349-14441-9
eBook Packages: MedicineMedicine (R0)