According to the text, functionalist theorists contend that one purpose social institutions serve is to

A) ensure the stability and continuance of society.
B) provide for some segments of society at the expense of others.
C) distribute power to the various segments of society unequally.
D) shape individual identity and personality.

Functionalists believe that social institutions serve the purpose of maintaining the stability and continuity of society. They view society as a system in which each part works together to maintain the overall functioning of society. Therefore, the main purpose of institutions is to ensure that society operates smoothly and continues to exist over time.