Comprehensive Guide to Sociological Research Methods and Processes

Science

A series of methods used to test knowledge claims about the natural world

Research Problem

Research problems may be suggested by gaps in the existing literature, theoretical debates, or practical issues in the social world.

Correlation

The existence of a regular relationship between two sets of occurrences or variables.

Causation

A relationship in which one event or situation brings about the other.

Independent Variable

The variable that produces an effect upon another.

Dependent Variable

The variable that is affected by the independent variable.

Ethnography

A way of studying people firsthand using participant observation, which entails hanging out with them and participating in their daily lives.

Survey

A method that is useful for gathering less detailed information from a larger group.

Experiments

Method that involves testing a hypothesis in a highly controlled environment.

Life Histories

Biographical material assembled about particular individuals-usually as recalled by the individuals themselves.

Comparative Research

Research in which one social context within a society is related to another society or contrasting examples from different societies.

Historical Analysis

Analysis that is essential when a study is either wholly historical or has a defined historical dimension.

Documentary Research

A method to study something with a historical basis, such as the Russian Revolution.

Triangulation

Using several methods in a single piece of research to supplement and check on the others.

Ethical Dilemmas

Dilemmas that may arise where deception is practiced against those who are the subjects of research or where the publication of research findings might adversely affect the feelings of lives of those studied.

Reflexive Nature of Sociology

Sociological research provides us with our knowledge of the state of social behavior, and this knowledge shapes how we behave.