Sociology Exam Review Flashcards

These flashcards cover key concepts, theories, and terminologies from sociology lecture notes to aid in exam preparation.

What is Sociology?

The systematic study of human behaviour in social context.

What does Sociological Imagination enable a person to do?

See the connection between human agency and social structures.

What is the focus of Functionalism in sociology?

How social structures maintain social stability.

Define Agency in sociology.

The ability of individuals to make decisions and take action within their lives.

What is the definition of Social Structures?

Enduring patterns and institutions that organize social life.

What is the main focus of Conflict Theory?

Social divisions that impede greater harmony and the differences in power among social groups.

What is Power in the context of sociology?

The ability of individuals in social relationships to impose their will on others regardless of resistance.

What is the main principle of Feminist theory?

The gendered dimensions of social life and inequality.

What do the 3 principles of Research Ethics include?

1. Respect for persons 2. Beneficence (“do no harm”) 3. Justice.

What is the difference between Validity and Reliability in research?

Validity refers to how well results reflect reality, while reliability involves consistent results.

What are Independent and Dependent variables?

Independent variable is the presumed cause, and dependent variable is the presumed effect in a cause-and-effect relationship.

What is Participant Observation in qualitative methods?

Researchers take part in the social group being studied and systematically observe what occurs.

What does Socialization refer to?

The process by which people learn to function in social life.

Name the primary Agents of Socialization.

Family, School, Peer Groups, and Social Media.

Define Culture in sociology.

Shared symbols and their definitions that influence behavior and thinking.

What is the role of Norms in society?

Generally accepted ways of doing things.

What is Rationalization in sociological terms?

The application of the most efficient means to achieve given goals and its unintended negative consequences.

What are Ascribed and Achieved statuses?

Ascribed status is imposed at birth, while achieved status is acquired through efforts and choices.

What is Role Strain?

When a person holds a single status with incompatible role demands.

What is the Presentation of Self theory?

The idea that social interaction is likened to a theatrical performance.

What characterizes Primary groups?

Small and personal groups where members know one another well.

What is Bureaucracy?

A large, impersonal organization comprising many clearly defined positions arranged in a hierarchy.

What is Medical Model in the context of disabilities?

A framework for presenting and interpreting disability that is determined by medical practitioners.

What does the Social Constructionist Model argue about disability?

It distinguishes between natural impairment and disability, viewing disability as socially constructed.

What are the critiques of Biomedicine?

1. Reductionist 2. Absolutist 3. Partially to blame for medicalization.

What does the Canada Health Act of 1984 emphasize?

Health care in Canada must be universal, accessible, comprehensive, portable, and publicly administered.

What is the definition of Social Interaction?

The process by which individuals act in relation to others.

What does the term Collective Conscience refer to?

The common sentiments and values that people share as a result of living together.

What is the importance of the Common School Act?

Established the structure of the education system in Canada.

What does Mass Education aim to address?

Inequalities from social class, gender, and minority statuses.

Define Media Imperialism.

The domination of a mass medium by a single national culture and the undermining of other national cultures.

What are Push and Pull factors in migration?

Push factors induce people to move out, while pull factors attract people to move in.

What is the significance of Urbanization?

The formation and growth of cities, mainly driven by colonization.

Define Environmental Justice.

The fair and equitable distribution of environmental resources and harms.