soci 101: exam 2

Broken Windows Theory of Deviance

An explanation of how social cues impact whether individuals act deviantly. Whether local, informal social norms allow deviant acts.

Merton’s strain theory

The theory that deviance occurs when a society doesn’t give all of its members equal ability to achieve socially acceptable goals. Individuals subsequently adapt in 5 distinct ways.

Describe 2 of the 5 adaptations to inequality

Conformity accepts cultural goals and accepts legitimate means, even though odds are stacked against them. Innovation accepts cultural goals but rejects legitimate means. Individuals use deviant methods to achieve material wealth.

Functionalist perspective on deviance, how it promotes social stability

They think deviance is not a breakdown of society, but rather a necessary element that promotes social stability and order. It promotes social stability by drawing a clear line between acceptable and unacceptable behavior, reinforcing a shared sense of right and wrong, and driving adaptation and social change.

The elite mass stratification dichotomy and one criticism

The system in which a small group of “elite” hold most of the power, influence, and decision-making authority while the “masses” have very little of all of that. One major criticism is that the model is overly simplistic and undermines democracy and pluralism.

2 components of prestige

Achieved status and ascribed status, or, status you accomplish and status that you are born with.

Conflict theory: how is social stability maintained

Conflict theorists view social stability as a temporary, forced state maintained through power and control. They believe that social order results from one group dominating another.

What are deceptive distinctions

Behaviors that occur as a result of the different positions men and women occupy, that exaggerate the actual differences between men and women.

What is emotional labor, and what is a job that requires it

The idea that certain kinds of work require us to manage our emotions in a taxing way that exacts costs. An example is any job in the service sector, such as cashier. It requires smiling, and wishing people a nice day.

What is the motherhood penalty

The systematic disadvantages, wage reductions, and slowed career advancement that working mothers face compared to childless women and men.

What is Rubin’s perspective on US society’s sex-role system

Rubin believed that women are treated like valuable property whose trade patterns strengthened relations between familied headed by men..