Sociology Chapter 1 Key Terms

Theory of Mind

The recognition that other minds exist, followed by the realization that we can try to imagine others' mental states

Looking-Glass self

The self that emerges as a consequence of seeing ourselves as we think other people see us

In-depth Interview

A research method that involves an intimate conversation between a researcher and a research subject

Coding

A process in which segments of text are identified as belonging to relevant categories

Self-Fulfilling Prophecy

A phenomenon in which what people believe is true becomes true, even if it wasn't originally true

Laboratory Experiment

A research method that involves a test of a hypothesis under carefully controlled conditions

Variable

Any measurable phenomenon that varies

Experimental Group

The group in a laboratory experiment that undergoes the experience that researchers believe might influence the dependent variable

Control Group

The group in a laboratory experiment that does not undergo the experience that researchers believe might influence the dependent variable

Casual Claims

Assertions that an independent variable is directly and specifically responsible for producing a change in a dependent variable

Correlational Claims

Assertions that changes in an independent variable correspond to changes in a dependent variable but not in a way that can be proven causal

Self-Narrative

A story we tell about the origin and likely future of our selves