Functions of the family

♤ Primary function- Some of the functions of family are basic to its continued existence.

o Production and rearing of the child

o Provision of home

o Instrument of culture transmission

o Agent of socialization

o Status ascribing function

o Agency of social control

♤ Secondary function

o Economic functions: With economic advancements, family has become more consuming unit than a producing one. Members are engaged in earning wages for ensuring socio-economic well-being of the family.

o Educational functions: Family provides the basis for the child’s formal learning. In spite of great changes, the family still gives the child his basic training in the social attitudes and habits important to adult participation in social life

o Religious functions: Family is a center for the religious training of the children. The children learn from their parents various religious virtues.

o Recreational functions: Family provides the opportunities to parents and children for engaging in various recreational activities such as playing indoor games, dancing, singing, reading etc.