Social Roles and Role Theory

Vocabulary flashcards defining key concepts related to social roles, statuses, and performance-related stress as described in the lecture notes.

Social Role

A set of behaviors that are expected of someone who holds a particular status.

Status vs. Role

The basic difference is that an individual occupies a status and plays a role.

Role Set

A situation where a single status has more than one role associated with it.

Role Conflict

Stress that occurs when role demands from different statuses conflict with each other.

Role Strain

The conflict or stress experienced when role demands from a single status are difficult to meet.

Role Exit

The process where an individual leaves an important social status and stops playing its attached role, often requiring them to redefine relationships and reestablish their identity.

Parent (Role Example)

A status occupied by a person who is expected to play a role by caring for and loving their children.

Teacher's Role Set (Example)

A single status that includes different roles in relation to students, fellow teachers, and the school board.