The unintended consequences of an action or social pattern are referred to by functionalist theorists,such as Merton,as

A) manifest functions.
B) latent functions.
C) hidden functions.
D) invisible functions.

Unintended Consequences

Outcomes that are not foreseen or intended by a purposeful action, often discussed in economics, social policy, and other fields.

Functionalist Theorists

Focus on how society maintains stability and order, viewing each part of society as functioning to maintain the whole.

Latent Functions

The unintended consequences of an action or social pattern.