Foundations
Define sociology
Study of human society, social behavior, and patterns of interaction.
Define the Looking-Glass Self.
Self-image shaped by how we think others see us.
Define Conflict Theory.
Society is shaped by inequality and competition for resources and power.
What is the nature vs. nurture debate?
Whether human behavior is driven more by biology (nature) or environment (nurture).
Who developed the stages of psychosocial development?
Erik Erikson.
What is a social FACT?
A pattern of behavior existing outside the individual that influences them (laws & traditions).
Give an example of the Looking-Glass Self.
A student thinking they’re “smart” because teachers praise them, or “awkward” because peers react negatively.
Define Structural Functionalism.
Society is a system of interdependent parts working together to maintain stability.
What does the Nativist perspective argue?
Traits and abilities are primarily inborn/biological.
What is Erikson’s first stage of psychosocial development?
Trust vs. Mistrust (infancy).
What is a social institution?
Organized patterns of beliefs and behavior centered on basic needs (family, education, religion, economy, government).
List two agents of socialization and what they teach us.
Family (values, language), School (discipline, knowledge), Peers (norms, identity), Media (roles, culture).
Define Symbolic Interactionism.
Society is built through shared meanings and symbols in everyday interactions.
What does the Empiricist perspective argue?
Behavior and traits are learned through experience/environment.
Which stage is young adulthood, and what is the conflict?
Intimacy vs. Isolation – building close relationships or feeling alone.
What is the difference between a personal trouble and a public issue?
Trouble = individual problem; Issue = societal-level problem that affects many.
Name three different types of family structure.
Nuclear family, extended family, single-parent family, blended family, child-free family.
Give an example of Conflict Theory in society.
Wage gaps between classes, power struggles between groups.
What does the Interactionist perspective argue?
Human behavior results from the interplay of biology and environment.
What is Erikson’s stage for middle adulthood?
Generativity vs. Stagnation – contributing to society or feeling unproductive.
Describe the Sociological Perspective.
Viewing society and behavior through social contexts, connections, and patterns rather than isolated individuals.
Which stage of Erikson’s theory covers adolescence, and what is the main conflict?
Identity vs. Role Confusion (teen years – developing sense of self).
Give an example of Symbolic Interactionism.
A wedding ring symbolizing commitment; a flag symbolizing patriotism.
Give an example of nature vs. nurture in human development.
Intelligence (genes may provide potential, but environment shapes outcome).
Apply Erikson’s final stage (Integrity vs. Despair). What does it mean?
Looking back on life with satisfaction or regret in old age.