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Sociology Practice Sheet
Introduction
Sociology is the study of human behavior and the way it is shaped by social and cultural factors. In sociology, we look at how people interact with each other, how they form groups and societies, and how they make decisions.
Section 1: What is Sociology?
- What is the definition of sociology?
Sociology is the scientific study of society, social institutions, and social relationships. It examines how people interact with each other, how they form groups, how societies are organized, and how social changes occur.
- What are some of the topics studied in sociology?
Some of the topics studied in sociology include social stratification (class, race, gender, etc.), social networks, culture, socialization, deviance, crime, and social change.
- What is the difference between sociology and psychology?
The main difference between sociology and psychology is that sociology focuses on the study of groups and societies, while psychology focuses on the study of the individual. Sociology looks at the big picture of how people interact with each other, while psychology looks at the individual's behavior, thoughts, and emotions.
Section 2: Examples of Sociological Concepts
- What is social stratification?
Social stratification is the division of a society into different social classes based on factors such as wealth, power, and status. It is a way of organizing society that creates unequal access to resources, opportunities, and power.
- What is socialization?
Socialization is the process by which we learn the values, beliefs, and norms of our society. It is how we learn to behave and think in a way that is acceptable to our society.
- What is deviance?
Deviance is behavior that violates social norms. It is seen as unacceptable by society and can lead to punishment or social disapproval.
Section 3: Practice Problems
- What are the two main types of social stratification?
The two main types of social stratification are class stratification and caste stratification. Class stratification is based on factors such as wealth, power, and status. Caste stratification is based on an individual’s place in a social hierarchy determined by birth.
- What are the three stages of socialization?
The three stages of socialization are:
1. Primary socialization, which occurs during childhood and involves learning the values, beliefs, and norms of our society.
2. Secondary socialization, which occurs during adolescence and involves learning the values and norms of specific groups or institutions.
3. Resocialization, which occurs when we are exposed to new values, beliefs, and norms.
- What is the difference between formal and informal deviance?
Formal deviance is behavior that violates the law and is punishable by the legal system. Informal deviance is behavior that violates social norms, but is not punishable by the legal system.