Chapter 3: Sociology Study Guide

Sociology

The study of society, human behavior, and the structures that shape social interactions.

Bobo Doll Experiment

A study conducted by Bandura et al. (1963) to examine the impact of media violence on children's behavior.

Mortification of the self

A process identified by Goffman (1961) where individuals' identities are stripped and replaced by institutional norms in total institutions.

Mechanical Solidarity

A concept by Durkheim describing societies unified by shared traditions and collective conscience.

Organic Solidarity

A concept by Durkheim referring to societies that are unified by interdependence and specialized roles.

Obedience to Authority

A key theme in Milgram's 1963 study revealing participants' willingness to obey authority figures, even when it conflicted with personal conscience.

Hawthorne Effect

The phenomenon where workers improve their performance when they know they are being observed.

Culture Shock

The psychological disorientation individuals experience when adapting to unfamiliar cultural environments, as studied by Oberg (1999).

Content Analysis

A research method that systematically studies media and communication patterns to assess how issues are framed, such as in Page's study of global warming.

Interview Effect

The phenomenon where the presence of an interviewer influences participants' responses.

Qualitative Data

Data that gathers in-depth insights, often through interviews and observations.

Quantitative Data

Numerical data analyzed statistically to provide measurable insights, often through surveys and experiments.

Random Sampling

A sampling method where every individual in the population has an equal chance of being selected.

Stratified Sampling

A sampling technique where the population is divided into subgroups, ensuring all are represented proportionally.

Snowball Sampling

A non-random sampling technique where existing participants recruit new participants, useful for hard-to-reach populations.

Convenience Sampling

A sampling method based on selecting participants who are readily available, which can lead to bias.

Grounded Theory

A qualitative research methodology developed by Glaser and Strauss that generates theories from data.

Independent Variable

The factor manipulated by the researcher in an experiment.

Dependent Variable

The outcome measured in response to the manipulation of the independent variable.

Correlation

A statistical relationship between two variables without asserting a cause-effect link.

Causality

A direct relationship where one variable influences another.

Covert Research

A type of research where the researcher's identity is not revealed to participants.

Overt Research

Research where the researcher is transparent about their identity and purpose.

Primary Sources

Original data generated from firsthand research activities such as interviews and surveys.

Secondary Sources

Pre-existing data sourced from previously published research and reports.

Coding

A stage in qualitative data analysis where data is categorized to identify patterns and themes.

Social Integration

The degree to which individuals bond with one another within a society, which influences social behaviors like suicide rates as studied by Durkheim.

Ethnography

A qualitative research method aimed at understanding cultures through immersive observation and participation.

Semiology

The study of signs and symbols in communication, exploring their denotative and connotative meanings.

Denotative Meaning

The literal, explicit meaning of a word or symbol.

Connotative Meaning

The implied or cultural meanings associated with a word or symbol.

Observation Method

A qualitative research method involving the systematic recording of behavior in a natural setting.

Case Study Method

An in-depth analysis of a single entity (individual, group, organization) to understand complex issues.

Ethical Considerations in Research

The principles guiding researchers to conduct studies responsibly, ensuring the well-being and respect for participants.

Sampling Bias

The potential for a sample to not accurately represent the population, often due to the sampling method used.

Hawthorne Studies

Research conducted by Mayo examining the effects of observation on workers' productivity.

Social Structures

The organized patterns in society that shape relationships and influence behavior.

Stereotypes in Media

Oversimplified and generalized beliefs about groups, as highlighted by Meehan's study on women in soap operas.

Fieldwork

Research conducted in the participant's natural setting, often associated with ethnographic studies.

Research Design

The overall framework or strategy used to conduct research, detailing methods, processes, and analysis plans.

Pilot Study

A small-scale preliminary study conducted to refine research methods before the full-scale study.

Interview Method

A qualitative research technique involving direct questioning to gather detailed participant information.

Social Norms

Unwritten rules and expectations about behavior that guide individuals in society.

Survey Method

A quantitative research technique using structured questionnaires to gather data from a large population.

Statistical Analysis

The application of statistical methods to analyze quantitative data for drawing conclusions and patterns.

Behavioral Observation

The process of systematically watching subjects to gather data on their actions and interactions.