Sociological Errors

Selective Observation

Choosing to only look at or listen to things that are in line with our preferences or existing beliefs, leading to a biased understanding of reality.

Inaccurate Observations

An observation made based on faulty perceptions of empirical reality (based on observation rather than theory)

Overgeneralization

Using your sample and applying it broadly to a larger population, often leading to inaccurate conclusions.

Illogical Reasoning

Conclusions do not logically follow from the evidence

Resistance to Change

don’t want to admit you’re wrong and maintaining traditional values

Social Scientific Research Questions

fact questions, not subjected or opinionated values

Criteria for “good” social research questions

1. Feasibility

2. Social Importance

3. Scientific Relevance

Feasibility

is it possible to study and track? can it be easily or conventionally done?

Social Importance

How is it affecting society?

Scientific Relevance

Do we already know the answer? Has research already been done?

Major purposes of Social Research

1. Exploration

2. Description

3. Explanation

4. Evaluation

Exploratory Research

trying to study something that people don’t understand well, or in a new/fresh manner; research that seeks to find out how people get along in the setting

Descriptive Research

1. clearly defining and describing some social phenomenon 

Explanatory Research

1.  seeks to identify the causes and effects of social phenomena and predict how one will change or vary in response (WHY IS THIS HAPPENING)

Evaluation Research

1. assessing the effectiveness, worth, and impact of programs, policies, and other social patterns