1.

Structural Functionalism
- society is made up of various institutions that work together in cooperation. Institutions are viewed as
Action Systems. Talcott Parsons’ Structural Functionalism includes 4 Functional Imperatives for all
action systems. Those imperatives are:
1. Adaptation.
- A system must cope with external situational exigencies. It must adapt to its environment
and adapt environment to its needs.
2. Goal Attainment.
- A system must define and achieve its primary goals.
3. Integration.
- A system must regulate the interrelationship of its component parts. It must also manage
the relationship among the other 3 functional imperatives (adaptation, goal attainment, and
latency).
4. Latency or Pattern Maintenance.
- A system must furnish, maintain and renew both the motivation of individuals and the
cultural patterns that create and sustain the motivation.