The difference between a functionalist and a substantive definition of family is the same as the difference between what a family does and what a family is.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A functionalist definition of family focuses on the roles and functions that family members fulfill (what a family does), while a substantive definition focuses on the form or structure of the family (what a family is).

The Difference Between a Functionalist and a Substantive Definition of Family