Theoretical Foundations
What is the functionalist view on social order?
stems from shared values and norms, which are transmitted through socialization and reinforced by social control mechanisms
Name three primary agents of socialization.
family, school, peers
What is social pressure and how does it work?
influence from people and societal expectations that encourages individuals to behave, think, or feel in a particular way to fit in with norms or avoid negative consequences
How do sociologists define deviance?
behavior, belief, or appearance that violates the accepted social norms, rules, or expectations of a society
How do social identities evolve over time?
individuals acquire, change, or shed identities through life events, new social roles, interactions within different groups, and experiences into their worldview
Define the structuralist perspective in sociology.
complex system of interconnected social structures (like institutions, rules, and norms) that exist independently of individual people and shape human behavior
What are the main stages of socialization throughout an individual’s life?
primary and secondary socialization
How does self-interest influence conformity?
motivating people to behave in ways that serve their own needs, primarily through the desire for social approval and belonging, or by seeking to maintain a positive self-concept
What is social resistance?
action taken by an individual or group to oppose and challenge established or dominant systems of power, oppression, or inequality within society
What are hybrid identities and how do they emerge?
individuals blend cultural elements from different backgrounds, resulting in a unique sense of self that integrates multiple influences, often due to migration, globalization, or intercultural interaction
What is the role of ideology in the social construction of reality?
providing a framework of beliefs, values, and norms that legitimize existing social arrangements and inequalities, influencing how individuals perceive and act within society
Identify key agencies of socialization and their influences.
family (primary caregiver and initial socializer), schools (teaching formal and informal norms), peer groups (offering alternative norms and identity formation), media (transmitting cultural messages and norms), and religion and the workplace (instilling specific values and behavioral expectations)
How do sanctions affect conformity?
encouraging behavior that aligns with social norms and discouraging nonconformity through rewards and punishments (sanctions)
What is under socialization and its implications?
when an individual experiences a lack of adequate social interaction and learning
increased risk of anxiety, depression, loneliness, and poor physical health outcomes, such as a shorter lifespan
How does gender and ethnicity play into social identity.
shaping their experiences, self-perception, and how they are viewed by society
Describe the three main sociological paradigms and provide examples of each
structural functionalism- building block
conflict theory- power struggle
symbolic interactionism- one on one interactions & meanings
Discuss the nature versus nurture debate in socialization.
nature- you're born with it
nurture- environment
What are some examples of formal and informal social control?
formal control includes paying a fine for littering, informal control is feeling ashamed after being glared at for littering
What is the concept of cultural deprivation?
the lack of culturally enriching experiences, resources, and skills that negatively impact an individual's development and opportunities
Explain how age influences social identity in modern society.
shaping life experiences, roles, and societal perceptions
Which sociologists believe in free will? Who believes we are puppets on a string?
Structuralist- puppets
interactionists- free will
How does socialization influence individual identity formation?
provides the cultural frameworks, social roles, and norms that individuals internalize to understand themselves and their place in society
What role does media play in social control?
reinforcing and challenging the status quo. tells you what is trending but also shows you how to fit in the trend.
How do subcultures resist mainstream norms?
creating their own distinct practices, styles, and languages
How has globalization impacted social class identities?
widened existing class divides and created new class identities by altering economies, increasing inequality, and promoting both cultural homogenization and hybridity