Question

multiple choice question
from a functionalist perspective, what function do television crime dramas serve for society?
they desensitize viewers to seeing crime and its aftermath.
they reinforce differences between acceptable and unacceptable behavior
they encourage viewers to view friends and neighbors with suspicion
they teach viewers how to commit crimes.

Explanation:

Functionalism emphasizes how different parts of society contribute to its stability. Television crime dramas, from this perspective, show the consequences of unacceptable behavior (crime) and the upholding of acceptable behavior (justice being served, e.g., criminals being caught). This reinforces the boundaries between what is acceptable and unacceptable in society.

• The first option about desensitization is more related to a potential negative impact (not a functionalist view of a positive societal function).
• The third option about encouraging suspicion is a negative aspect (not a functionalist focus on social order - maintaining functions).
• The fourth option about teaching crime is also a negative (not a functionalist - approved societal function).

Answer:

They reinforce differences between acceptable and unacceptable behavior.