LESSON 3

DOMINANT APPROACHES AND IDEAS IN THE SOCIAL SCIENCES

(STRUCTURAL FUNCTIONALISM)

In the previous lesson, you were introduced to the various disciplines of the social sciences. In this
lesson, you will learn the theories used in those disciplines. A theory is used to provide an analytical
scheme in understanding variables. In the disciplines of social sciences, theories are extremely
important as they provide social scientists an anchor for their interpretation of social phenomena.

In this lesson, you will be able to:

➢ Identify key concepts and approaches in the social sciences.
➢ Interpret personal and social experiences using relevant
approaches in the social sciences.
➢ Determine manifest and latent functions and dysfunctions of
sociocultural phenomena.
➢ Identify the key theorists on structural functionalism.
➢ Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the approach.

• Structural functionalism is a sociological theory that revolves around the notion that a
society is composed of a system of interconnected parts that have their own particular
functions.
• Functionalism views societal living shaped and guided by social structures or the
patterns of social relationships between groups or individual.
• Social structures formed among groups or institutions are referred to as macrostructures,
which include religion, education, tradition, and culture.
• On the other hand, social structures established among individuals or within groups that
result in individual interactions are called microstructures. Education, as an example of a
macrostructure, shapes the minds of students to become productive members of society.
Addressing elders with respect, as an example of a microstructure, motivates and
shapes the younger generation to promote social values.
• The effects of social structure or their purpose are called social functions. Every social
structure has a corresponding social function.
• This theory emphasizes on understanding social reality by the functions that individuals
and institutions perform within a society.
• Society is composed of various parts (institutions and structures) that function under
certain rules (norms). When structures of society do not function as intended, the society
experiences chaos.

Key Concepts in Structural Functionalism

Manifest and Latent Functions

• A manifest function is the predicted, expected, and knowable effect of a social

structure. For example, people go to churches in order to pray and to hear mass.
• A latent function is the unintended outcome of social structure. So, if the manifest
function of going to church is to pray and hear mass, its latent function is to gather
people together in one place to reinforce the sense of community.
• Manifest and latent functions bring about positive effects or outcomes such as
individual well-being and community solidarity.
Manifest and Latent Dysfunctions
• Manifest dysfunction is the predicted, expected, and knowable disruptions of a
social structure. For example, illegal immigration disrupts the economic system of
a host country through the usage of public services of individuals who are not
paying taxes
• A latent dysfunction is the unpredicted and unexpected disruptions of social
structures. For example, in the case of illegal immigrants who are able to get
through the systems of employment in the host country without proper
documentation, these individuals create employment tension and gap as they
offer cheaper labor compared to their documented counterparts.
• Manifest and latent dysfunctions bring about negative effects or outcomes. But for
the sociologist, studying manifest and latent functions is a way to promote the
benefits of such functions and further develop social structures. But because
manifest and latent dysfunctions are contrary to the idea of systems in society,
sociologists focus more on the dysfunctions to promote social stability and
solidarity. Understanding manifest and latent dysfunctions helps sociologists
assess risks and prepare accordingly. Such assessments and preparations can
be useful in different fields and professions.

Activity 1: Student Body

Direction: Think about your Student Council at your school. Your task is to identify at least
three manifest (recognized and intended consequences) and three latent (unrecognized and
unintended consequences) functions of your student government. Once you have identified these
functions, you are required to identify social dysfunctions, anything that you think may disrupt the
organization and processes of your Student Council. These social dysfunctions may be
independent or dependent on the manifest and latent functions identified.
Manifest Functions of the Latent Functions of the Social Dysfunctions to the
Student Council Student Council Student Council

Was it difficult to identify functions and dysfunctions of your

Student Council? Why or why not?
 Based on your answers, do you think that change is needed in
your Student Council? In what aspects, and towards what
Processing Questions
directions?

Activity 2: Responsibilities of Teenager

Direction: Write down five responsibilities of a teenager most especially today as we face the COVID-19
pandemic.

1 Be responsible in practicing or implementing basic safety protocols like wearing

face mask, face shield, and proper washing of hands.

Activity 3: Puzzle
Directions: Fill each box with the correct letter to form the correct answer. Do it in a separate
sheet of paper.
1. An approach in sociology that views society as a complex system whose parts work together
to promote solidarity and stability.

2. A French philosopher noticed and started to think that society was made up of
building blocks that were focused towards a common goal.
3. Occurs when an individual continues to do things as prescribed by society but
forfeits the achievement of the goals.

4. A combination of the rejection of societal goals and means and a substitution of

other goals and means.

5. Involves the rejection of both the culturally prescribed goals as well as the
conventional means of attaining them.

6. Occurs when an individual has the means and desire to achieve the cultural goals
socialized into him.

7. An American sociologist and functionalist who attempted to develop and perfect a

general analytic model suitable for analyzing all types of collectivities.

8. Places an importance on the performance and emphasizes individual achievement.

9. It refers to the innate qualities of individuals.

10. When role obligations are extended outside the