This Document Contains Chapters 1 to 2 Chapter 1: How Sociologists View Social Problems: The Abortion Dilemma MULTIPLE CHOICE 1. Who developed the concept of the sociological imagination? A) Emile Durkheim B) Max Weber C) Karl Marx D) C. Wright Mills Answer: D 2. The sociological imagination is also called __________. A) reinforcement theory B) scientific sociology C) historical and biographical analysis D) the sociological perspective Answer: D 3. When researchers focus on how the relationships we share with family, friends, and co-workers shape our lives, they are examining a(n) __________. A) broad social context B) narrow social context C) intimate social context D) close social context Answer: C 4. When Michael considers how his race, age, marital status, and income compare to that of other Americans, he is considering his __________. A) personal troubles B) common sense C) social problems D) social location Answer: D 5. Professor Fuentes encourages her students to consider how laws, education, religion, and the media influence how people think, feel, and act. As such, Professor Fuentes wants her students to use __________. A) the sociological imagination B) reinforcement theory C) common sense D) historical and biographical analysis Answer: A 6. When did the U.S. Supreme Court legalize abortion? A) 1963 B) 1969 C) 1973 D) 1979 Answer: C 7. What is the ability to get one’s way despite resistance called? A) Values B) Social problem C) Power D) Subjective concern Answer: C 8. A shared belief about whether something is good or bad is a __________. A) value B) document C) social problem D) personal trouble Answer: A 9. What are the aspects of society that can be measured or experienced? A) Objective conditions B) Social problems C) Personal problems D) Subjective concerns Answer: A 10. Which of the following Supreme Court rulings legalized abortion in the United States? A) Webster v. Reproductive Services B) Roe v. Wade C) Casey v. Planned Parenthood D) Brown v. the Board of Education Answer: B 11. The teenagers who participate in a weekly bible-study class believe that abortion is bad. Their shared belief is an example of a(n) __________. A) value B) social problem C) personal trouble D) experiment Answer: A 12. A significant number of people worry about the conditions of public schools in urban areas. Such unease illustrates the __________ associated with a social problem. A) subjective concerns B) objective conditions C) moral decay D) value neutrality Answer: A 13. Whether or not marijuana is legal, who obtains it and under what circumstances it is obtained are examples of the __________ associated with a social problem. A) objective conditions B) subjective concerns C) social solutions D) moral dilemmas Answer: A 14. When Rhonda arrived at the abortion clinic, she was surprised to find dozens of protestors blocking her way. Rhonda pushed her way through the crowd and was able to see a physician at the clinic. Rhonda was able to get what she wanted, despite resistance. This is an example of Rhonda’s __________. A) values B) power C) sociological imagination D) subjective concern Answer: B 15. How many stages are there in the natural history of social problems? A) Two B) Three C) Four D) Five Answer: C 16. Crafting an official response occurs during which stage in the natural history of social problems? A) First B) Second C) Third D) Fourth Answer: B 17. The emergence of leaders occurs during which stage in the natural history of social problems? A) First B) Second C) Third D) Fourth Answer: A 18. Antiabortionists who forward e-mails to their friends, run newspaper ads, and post blogs are known as __________. A) radicals B) feminists C) conservatives D) moderates Answer: D 19. Connie believes that a fetus is a human being. Connie is __________. A) a proabortionist B) an antiabortionist C) value free D) generalized Answer: B 20. A key effort of the proabortionists is to __________. A) eliminate the antiabortionists B) show that the fetus is a human being C) protect Roe v. Wade D) mandate abortions Answer: C 21. In Webster v. Reproductive Services, the Supreme Court ruled that __________. A) individual states have no obligation to finance abortion B) a woman under the age of 18 must have parental consent for an abortion C) picketers and other demonstrators must remain 300 feet away from the entrances to abortion clinics D) women should have the right to vote Answer: A 22. The Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances Act states that __________. A) individual states have no obligation to finance abortion B) a woman under the age of 18 must have parental consent for an abortion C) picketers and other demonstrators must remain 300 feet away from the entrances to abortion clinics. D) clinics must stay open at least 6 days per week Answer: C 23. The development of alternative strategies occurs during which stage in the natural history of social problems? A) First B) Second C) Third D) Fourth Answer: D 24. Rosita works as a counselor at a Crisis Pregnancy Center. It is Rosita’s job to __________. A) urge pregnant women to have abortions B) provide pregnant women with abortion services C) encourage pregnant women to give birth D) be a political activist for her cause Answer: C 25. In an effort to express their opposition to abortion, the members of a group burned and bombed abortion clinics around their state. These members are __________. A) moderates B) radicals C) alternatives D) crazy Answer: B 26. Monica believes that a fetus has the potential to become a human being. Monica is __________. A) a proabortionist B) an antiabortionist C) value free D) generalized Answer: A 27. In the United States, who/what hold(s) the power to decide whether abortion is legal? A) Women B) The Supreme Court C) The president D) Physicians Answer: B 28. When Hawaii decided to support the repeal of the abortion law, this reflected which stage of the natural development of social problems? A) First B) Second C) Third D) Fourth Answer: B 29. When Joan Hayes argued that the abortion issue was about the right of pregnant women to choose whether or not to have a baby, this represented which stage of the natural development of social problems? A) First B) Second C) Third D) Fourth Answer: A 30. When proabortion groups started to promote the development of abortion clinics around the country, this reflected which stage of the natural development of social problems? A) First B) Second C) Third D) Fourth Answer: C 31. The systematic and objective study of human society is known as __________. A) sociology B) sociological imagination C) research methods D) case study Answer: A 32. The team of sociologists at Florida State University is gathering information on the number of homeless people in the southern region of the United States. These researchers are __________. A) measuring objective conditions B) measuring subjective concerns C) using common sense D) engaging in case studies Answer: A 33. The team of sociologists at Iowa State University is gathering information on student attitudes toward homelessness. These researchers are __________. A) measuring objective conditions B) measuring subjective concerns C) using common sense D) engaged in case studies Answer: B 34. What term refers to the ideas common to our society or to some group within our society? A) Power B) Values C) Personal troubles D) Common sense Answer: D 35. Ibrahim, like many people in our society, believes as people age they become less interested in sexual activity. This idea that is held by a large percentage of the population is an example of __________. A) a value B) power C) personal troubles D) common sense Answer: D 36. In an experiment, who are those people not exposed to a particular experience? A) Control group B) Experimental group C) Field study D) Random sample Answer: A 37. The ways of doing research are known as __________. A) documents B) methods C) values D) personal troubles Answer: B 38. What method requires researchers to go into a setting that they want to learn more about? A) Experiments B) Surveys C) Field studies D) Case studies Answer: C 39. Jamaal is interested in learning more about the victims of violent crime. To gather information, Jamaal asks people questions about their experiences with violent crime. Jamaal is using __________. A) interviews B) experiments C) documents D) observation Answer: A 40. Jason is conducting a study on gambling. He allows each participant in his study to talk in-depth about their experiences with gambling. Jason is using which method to gather information? A) Structured interviews B) Unstructured interviews C) Paper/pencil questionnaires D) Observation Answer: B 41. Thomasina is conducting a study on date-rape. She asks women who have been raped to answer written questions. Which method is Thomasina using to gather information? A) Structured interviews B) Unstructured interviews C) Paper/pencil questionnaires D) Observation Answer: C 42. Janki used the hospital records of babies born with heroin addictions to gather information for her research project. Janki used __________. A) observation B) interviews C) questionnaires D) documents Answer: D 43. Phoebe is conducting a study on youth violence that occurs in suburban playgrounds. She watches and listens to what is taking place and records the actions and statements that the youth make. This is an example of __________. A) observation B) interviews C) questionnaires D) documents Answer: A 44. Lou is a researcher who wants to understand the physical abuse of prisoners at a local jail. Lou gets a job at the jail as a security guard. Lou secretly records his observations without revealing that he is a researcher. Lou’s observations are __________. A) overt B) covert C) structured D) unstructured Answer: B 45. Mayda wants to learn more about battered women who live in shelters with their children. After Mayda obtained permission to conduct her research at the local shelter, she began to make observations. This is an example of a(n) __________. A) experiment B) survey C) field study D) case studies Answer: C 46. Ami wants to gain in-depth information about how women experience homelessness. Ami should use __________. A) field studies B) case studies C) experiments D) surveys Answer: B 47. Ricardo wants to generalize his findings on wife-battering to a larger population. Ricardo should use __________. A) surveys B) experiments C) case studies D) field studies Answer: A 48. Yoshimi wants to know how watching a video on racial relations impacts attitudes toward Asian Americans. She takes a group of students who have expressed prejudice towards Asian Americans and divides them into two groups. She shows Group A the video on racial relations, while Group B does not view the video. Afterwards, she measures each group’s level of prejudice towards Asian Americans. The group that viewed the video on racial relations is called the __________. A) sample B) population C) experimental group D) control group Answer: C 49. Yoshimi wants to know how watching a video on racial relations impacts attitudes toward Asian Americans. She takes a group of students who have expressed prejudice towards Asian Americans and divides them into two groups. She shows Group A the video on racial relations, while Group B does not view the video. Afterwards, she measures each group’s levels of prejudice towards Asian Americans. The group that did not view the video on racial relations is called the __________. A) sample B) population C) experimental group D) control group Answer: D 50. Vanessa wants to know about the safe-sex practices of the 4,000 students enrolled at her small, liberal arts college. She obtains a complete list of the names and contact information of the 4,000 students from the campus Registration Office and selects 500 people from the list to participate in her study. Because every student at the college has an equal chance of being selected for this study, Vanessa has a(n) __________. A) experimental group B) random sample C) population D) field study Answer: B FILL IN THE BLANK 51. Using __________ involves looking at people’s behavior and attitudes in the context of the social forces that shape them. Answer: the sociological imagination 52. The phenomena in which large-scale events of history bring difficulty into people’s lives is called __________. Answer: personal troubles 53. The killing of newborn baby girls is called __________. Answer: female infanticide 54. __________ was the first state to legalize abortion. Answer: Hawaii 55. Reaction to the official response occurs during the __________ stage in the natural history of social problems. Answer: third 56. The technique in which an interviewer asks people to answer written questions is called __________. Answer: paper/pencil questionnaires 57. With a(n) __________ everyone in the target population has an equal chance of being included in the study. Answer: random sample 58. When interviewers allow people to talk in-depth about their experiences, they are using __________. Answer: unstructured interviews 59. With __________ researchers are able to generalize their findings. Answer: surveys 60. To __________ is to apply research findings to people who belong to the target group, but who are not in the sample. Answer: generalize TRUE/FALSE 61. African American women are more likely than white women to have an abortion. Answer: True 62. Social location determines a person’s actions. Answer: False 63. A social problem for some is often a solution for others. Answer: True 64. Abortion cannot really be considered a social problem. Answer: False 65. There are 6 stages in the natural history of social problems. Answer: False 66. In 1995 Hawaii changed its law and made abortion a private, noncriminal act. Answer: False 67. In the case of Webster v. Reproductive Services, the Supreme Court concluded that the states do not have an obligation to finance abortions. Answer: True 68. Sociology provides a basis for making value decisions. Answer: False 69. Josie wants to do a study of single, working mothers’ political attitudes that would be generalizable to the population. She should conduct interviews. Answer: False 70. Sociologists do not take sides in social issues. Answer: False SHORT ANSWER 71. Compare and contrast the three levels of social context that shape the way we look at life. Give an example of each. Answer: The three levels of social context that shape our perspective on life are micro-level, meso-level, and macro-level contexts: 1. Micro-level: This involves personal interactions and relationships, such as family, friends, and colleagues. It shapes our day-to-day experiences and immediate social interactions. • Example: A family dinner where values, traditions, and support systems are reinforced. 2. Meso-level: This encompasses larger groups and institutions that we interact with regularly, like schools, workplaces, and local communities. It influences our social roles and community engagement. • Example: A school setting where educational norms and peer influences shape one's academic and social development. 3. Macro-level: This includes broader societal and cultural contexts, such as national policies, economic systems, and cultural norms. It affects overarching beliefs, values, and societal structures. • Example: National laws and cultural norms that influence gender roles and expectations in society. Each level plays a crucial role in forming our worldview, from intimate interactions to societal frameworks. 72. Define the two key components of a social problem. Give an example of each for a particular social problem. Answer: The two key components of a social problem are objective conditions and subjective concerns: 1. Objective Conditions: These are measurable, observable facts or data about a social issue. • Example: For the social problem of poverty, an objective condition would be the percentage of the population living below the poverty line. 2. Subjective Concerns: These are the perceptions, beliefs, and feelings that people have about a social issue. • Example: For the social problem of poverty, a subjective concern would be the public's perception that poverty is a critical issue that needs addressing and their beliefs about its causes and solutions. 73. Explain why sons are preferred over daughters in India. Answer: Sons are preferred over daughters in India due to several cultural, economic, and social reasons: 1. Economic Security: Sons are often seen as providers who will support their parents in old age. 2. Inheritance and Lineage: Sons carry on the family name and inherit property, ensuring the continuation of the family line. 3. Social and Cultural Practices: Daughters are perceived as financial burdens due to the dowry system and the cost of weddings. 4. Religious Beliefs: Sons are traditionally required to perform important religious rites, such as funeral rituals for parents. These factors contribute to a strong cultural preference for male children in India. 74. Explain the significant legal rulings on abortion since Roe. v. Wade and how they have helped shape perception of abortion as a social problem or not. Answer: Significant legal rulings on abortion since Roe v. Wade include: 1. Planned Parenthood v. Casey (1992): This ruling reaffirmed the right to abortion but allowed states to impose restrictions as long as they did not place an "undue burden" on women seeking abortions. It shifted the framework for evaluating abortion laws and increased state-level regulation. • Impact: It shaped the perception of abortion by emphasizing both women's rights and states' rights to regulate abortions, thus intensifying debates and polarization. 2. Gonzales v. Carhart (2007): This ruling upheld the Partial-Birth Abortion Ban Act of 2003, which prohibited a specific abortion procedure. • Impact: It influenced perceptions by validating certain restrictions on abortion methods, reinforcing the view of some procedures as morally and ethically problematic. 3. Whole Woman's Health v. Hellerstedt (2016): This ruling struck down Texas laws requiring abortion clinics to meet surgical center standards and doctors to have hospital admitting privileges, finding these requirements imposed undue burdens. • Impact: It highlighted the ongoing battle over access to abortion services, framing restrictive laws as obstacles to women's health and rights. These rulings have shaped perceptions of abortion by balancing individual rights and state interests, influencing public opinion and reinforcing its status as a contentious social issue. 75. Discuss the controversy among sociologists concerning the issue of neutrality versus value commitment in approaching social problems. Answer: The controversy among sociologists regarding neutrality versus value commitment in approaching social problems centers on two main perspectives: 1. Neutrality: Some sociologists argue that researchers should maintain objectivity and neutrality to ensure unbiased, scientifically valid findings. This approach is believed to enhance credibility and prevent personal beliefs from influencing the analysis. • Example: A sociologist studying poverty might avoid advocating for specific policies to remain impartial. 2. Value Commitment: Others contend that sociologists should acknowledge their values and use their work to address social injustices and advocate for change. They argue that social research is inherently value-laden and that neutrality can be a form of complicity with existing power structures. • Example: A sociologist studying poverty might actively promote policies aimed at reducing economic inequality. This debate reflects broader discussions on the role of social scientists in society and the impact of their work on social change. ESSAY 76. Outline the four stages in the natural history of a social problem. Apply these stages to one social problem in particular and provide examples. Ideal Answer: The ideal answer should include: • Outline four stages: defining problem, official response, reactions, and alternative strategies. • Choose one social problem to analyze and apply stages to. • Provide examples as support. Sample Answer: The four stages in the natural history of a social problem are: 1. Emergence and Claims-Making: A problem is identified, and activists or interest groups make claims about its existence and importance. • Example: Climate change initially gained attention through scientific research and environmental activists raising awareness about rising global temperatures and their effects. 2. Legitimacy: The problem is recognized by influential institutions, such as the media, government, or scientific community, which validates its significance. • Example: Climate change gained legitimacy when major scientific bodies, like the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), provided evidence and governments began acknowledging it in policy discussions. 3. Renewed Claims-Making: As awareness grows, there are increased efforts to address the problem, often involving more intense advocacy and policy proposals. • Example: Climate change activism intensified with movements like Fridays for Future, led by Greta Thunberg, pushing for urgent government action and stronger environmental policies. 4. Development of Alternative Strategies: When initial efforts to solve the problem face challenges, new strategies and solutions are developed. • Example: Climate change mitigation has seen the development of alternative strategies such as renewable energy technologies, international agreements like the Paris Accord, and local sustainability initiatives. These stages illustrate the evolving nature of addressing social problems, from initial awareness to developing multifaceted approaches to tackle them effectively. 77. Discuss the five ways in which sociology can contribute to an understanding of a social problem. Which do you see as the most important aspect of the five ways that can help to understand the varying sides of the abortion issue? Ideal Answer: The ideal answer should include: • Discuss the five contributions of sociology: measure objective conditions, measure subjective concerns, apply the sociological imagination, intervene, and evaluate consequences. • Explain abortion as a social problem. • Evaluate which is the most important of the five with regard to the issue of abortion. Sample Answer: Sociology can contribute to understanding a social problem in five key ways: 1. Identifying Patterns and Trends: Sociologists collect and analyze data to identify patterns and trends in social issues. 2. Understanding Social Context: They examine how social context influences individual behavior and societal outcomes. 3. Exploring Causes and Consequences: Sociologists investigate the root causes and broader consequences of social problems. 4. Evaluating Social Policies: They assess the effectiveness of social policies and interventions. 5. Promoting Critical Thinking: Sociology encourages critical thinking about societal norms, values, and power structures. For understanding the varying sides of the abortion issue, the most important aspect is Understanding Social Context. This approach helps reveal how cultural, religious, political, and economic factors shape individuals' views and experiences related to abortion, providing a comprehensive understanding of the diverse perspectives involved. 78. Compare and contrast common sense and sociological approaches to understanding social problems. What is wrong with common sense when it comes to setting social policy? Ideal Answer: The ideal answer should include: • Explain the common sense approach. • Explain the sociological approach. • Evaluate the problems with the common sense approach to social policy. • Explain what the sociological approach provides to helping set social policy. Sample Answer: Common Sense vs. Sociological Approaches to Understanding Social Problems: • Common Sense: Relies on everyday knowledge, personal experiences, and culturally ingrained beliefs. It is often anecdotal, subjective, and based on assumptions. • Example: Believing poverty is solely due to individual laziness without considering systemic factors. • Sociological Approach: Uses systematic research, empirical evidence, and theoretical frameworks to understand social problems. It is objective, analytical, and considers broader social contexts and structures. • Example: Analyzing poverty through data on education, employment opportunities, and social policies. What's Wrong with Common Sense for Setting Social Policy: • Limited Perspective: Common sense does not account for the complexity and multifaceted nature of social problems. • Bias and Assumptions: It is often influenced by personal biases and cultural stereotypes, leading to oversimplified or incorrect conclusions. • Lack of Evidence: Common sense lacks rigorous evidence and can result in policies that are ineffective or harmful. In contrast, sociological approaches provide a more comprehensive, evidence-based foundation for setting effective and equitable social policies. 79. Explain the four basic types of research design and four main techniques used to gather data by sociologists. Demonstrate your understanding by briefly outlining how you could use each to study some social problem other than abortion. Ideal Answer: The ideal answer should include: • Explain the four basic types of research design: case studies, surveys, experiments, field studies • Explain the four main techniques: interviews, questionnaires, documents, observation • Outline the design of a study about a social problem using the above techniques. Sample Answer: Four Basic Types of Research Design: 1. Descriptive Research: Describes characteristics. • Example: Studying homelessness demographics. 2. Exploratory Research: Investigates unknown problems. • Example: Exploring social media's impact on teenage mental health. 3. Explanatory Research: Explains causes and effects. • Example: Analyzing the link between unemployment and crime. 4. Evaluative Research: Assesses effectiveness of programs/policies. • Example: Evaluating a job training program for ex-convicts. Four Main Data Gathering Techniques: 1. Surveys: Questionnaires/interviews for large samples. • Example: Surveying public opinion on climate change policies. 2. Interviews: Detailed, open-ended questions. • Example: Interviewing unemployed individuals on job barriers. 3. Observation: Recording behavior in natural settings. • Example: Observing high school bullying behaviors. 4. Secondary Analysis: Analyzing existing data. • Example: Using census data to study income inequality trends. 80. Although sociology does not necessarily entail taking sides on social issues, sometimes it is inescapable for us as human beings. What social issue would cause you to take a side and how would you apply what you have learned in this chapter to help you in a study? Ideal Answer: The ideal answer should include: • Explain why sociologists might avoid taking sides on issues. • Choose and explain a social problem the student cares about. • Apply theories and methods to that issue. Sample Answer: One social issue where I would take a side is environmental sustainability. Applying what I've learned in sociology, I would use research methods like surveys to understand public attitudes towards conservation policies, conduct interviews to explore community perceptions of sustainable practices, and use explanatory research to analyze the systemic causes of environmental degradation. This approach would help inform policies and advocacy efforts aimed at promoting long-term environmental stewardship and addressing global climate challenges. Chapter 2: Interpreting Social Problems: Aging MULTIPLE CHOICE 1. Marco is looking for a framework for organizing the facts that he has learned about academic success and parental income. Marco is pursuing a __________. A) theory B) latent function C) manifest function D) dysfunction Answer: A 2. Who is the “founder of sociology”? A) Emile Durkheim B) August Comte C) Karl Marx D) Herbert Spencer Answer: B 3. Who introduced the ideas of manifest and latent functions? A) Emile Durkheim B) Herbert Spencer C) Robert Merton D) Karl Marx Answer: C 4. What are the unintended consequences of people’s actions that disrupt a system’s equilibrium? A) Latent functions B) Latent dysfunctions C) Symbols D) Manifest functions Answer: B 5. Which theory suggests that nursing homes were developed to replace care that occurred in the home, especially as more women went into the workforce and were unable to care for their aging family members? A) Functionalism B) Conflict theory C) Symbolic interactionism D) Ecofeminism Answer: A 6. Durkheim may look at some of the dysfunctions that occur within society as a(n) __________. A) structured state B) society at rest C) symbol of the times D) “abnormal state” Answer: D 7. Who advocated for thinking about sociology as a big organism similar to an animal? A) Emile Durkheim B) August Comte C) Karl Marx D) Herbert Spencer Answer: B 8. Tonya believes that children become delinquent when parents fail to do their part. Tonya’s view of juvenile delinquency as a social problem is in line with __________. A) functionalism B) conflict theory C) symbolic interactionism D) ecofeminism Answer: A 9. The purpose of the public school system is to provide youth with the knowledge that they need to pursue a successful career path. This is an example of the __________ of the public school system. A) latent function B) dysfunction C) symbol D) manifest function Answer: D 10. The public school system provides youth with an opportunity to build social relationships with other children in the same age group. This is an example of the __________ of the public school system. A) latent function B) dysfunction C) symbol D) manifest function Answer: A 11. In the United States, a person convicted of a felony drug charge is ineligible to receive federal financial aid to attend college. Because of this law, ex-convicts who are released from prison have limited access to higher education and high-paying jobs. Many return to a life of crime. This is an example of the __________ of the law. A) latent function B) latent dysfunction C) symbol D) manifest function Answer: B 12. Which theorist believes that conflict is inevitable among people who have close relationships? A) Jane Adams B) Lewis Coser C) Max Weber D) Emile Durkheim Answer: B 13. What did industrialization accomplish? A) Industrialization improved the status of the elderly. B) Industrialization transformed the elderly from productive and respected to deprived and disgraced. C) Industrialization offered more jobs to older workers than to younger workers. D) Industrialization created a growing elderly population. Answer: B 14. The elderly became a political force when they were organized into a collective group by which of the following individuals? A) Susan B. Anthony B) Dr. Tyler Smith C) Dr. Francis Townsend D) Karl Marx Answer: C 15. Conflict theory was developed to explain events that occurred during __________. A) the Industrial Revolution B) the Baby Boom C) World War I D) the development of the Social Security Administration Answer: A 16. The economic system in America is set up so that a small group of people controls the means of production. This system is an example of __________. A) ecofeminism B) capitalism C) functionalism D) patriarchy Answer: B 17. Mr. Walton owns a chain of factories in which he makes running shoes. As such, Mr. Walton is a __________. A) functionalist B) feminist C) capitalist D) symbolic interactionist Answer: C 18. Dong Uk Yi believes that poverty occurs when the powerful exploit weaker groups. Dong’s view is in line with __________. A) functionalism B) conflict theory C) symbolic interactionism D) ecofeminism Answer: B 19. Ann is an executive and Doug works as Ann’s assistant. In the relationship between Ann and Doug, Ann is the __________. A) subordinate B) capitalist C) functionalist D) superordinate Answer: D 20. Ann is an executive and Doug works as Ann’s assistant. In the relationship between Ann and Doug, Doug is the __________. A) subordinate B) capitalist C) functionalist D) superordinate Answer: A 21. Feminist theory is related to __________. A) conflict theory B) functionalism C) symbolic interactionism D) the Chicago School Answer: A 22. Which term is used to denote a society ruled by men? A) Patriarchy B) Feminism C) Capitalism D) Labeling Answer: A 23. Mildred is a 74-year-old woman in good health. When asked whom she expects to take care of her when she can no longer care for herself, Mildred (like most elderly Americans) expects that she will be taken care of by her __________. A) son B) daughter C) nurse D) husband Answer: B 24. Which strain of feminism argues that there are biological differences between men and women and that these differences should be appreciated? A) Liberal feminism B) Radical feminism C) Cultural feminism D) Ecofeminism Answer: C 25. When did the perception of the elderly change so that they were seen as more useless and less productive members of society? A) 1500s B) 1600s C) 1800s D) 1900s Answer: C 26. In the Newman family, the men have all the power. The women dutifully submit to their fathers, brothers, husbands and sons. This is an example of __________. A) patriarchy B) feminism C) capitalism D) labeling Answer: A 27. Marsha is the president of a group aiming to free both men and women of rigid gender roles and expectations by raging war against patriarchy. As such, Marsha is a(n) __________. A) liberal feminist B) radical feminist C) cultural feminist D) ecofeminist Answer: B 28. Priya believes that patriarchy and oppression exist because our institutions socialize men and women into believing oppressive ideology. Priya is a __________. A) radical feminist B) liberal feminist C) cultural feminist D) socialist feminist Answer: B 29. Ophelia points out that our society rewards those who perform in the workplace, not in the home. She goes on to say that women’s traditional work in the home is not respected because it often produces intangibles. Ophelia holds the viewpoints of __________. A) liberal feminism B) radical feminism C) cultural feminism D) socialist feminism Answer: D 30. Which strain of feminism claims that all people are created equal and deserve access to equal rights? A) Liberal feminism B) Radical feminism C) Cultural feminism D) Socialist feminism Answer: A 31. Antonia believes if women ruled the world, patriarchy, oppression, and capitalism would not exist, and the world would be a better place. As such, Antonia holds the viewpoints of __________. A) liberal feminism B) radical feminism C) cultural feminism D) socialist feminism Answer: C 32. Aliya believes that because mankind desires to rule both women and the wild, women must play a role in preserving the natural environment. As such, Aliya is a(n) __________. A) ecofeminist B) radical feminist C) cultural feminist D) socialist feminist Answer: A 33. The sexual division of labor defines caring for elderly parents as __________. A) patriarchy B) women’s work C) feminism D) labeling Answer: B 34. What did sociologist Barbara Mascio learn about the elderly? A) Elderly people want to organize and fight for their rights. B) Most elderly want to live productive lives. C) Elderly parents still expect to be taken care of by their daughters. D) Elderly parents prefer to move in with their son and his family. Answer: C 35. Which of the following is the term used to refer to one of the oldest and most prestigious departments of sociology in the United States? A) The Vanderbilt Seven B) The Phenomenological School C) The Capitalists D) The Chicago School Answer: D 36. Phyllis Moen is a scholar who studies older people. As such, Moen is a __________. A) sociologist B) gerontologist C) symbolic interactionist D) functionalist Answer: B 37. Which of the following involves putting tags on other people and then acting accordingly? A) Labeling B) Powers C) Structure D) Taking the role of the other Answer: A 38. When we take the role of people in general, we are taking on the role of the __________. A) Looking-glass self B) sociological imagination C) dependency ratio D) generalized other Answer: D 39. The early days of the Chicago School focused on __________. A) functionalism B) conflict theory C) symbolic interactionism D) feminism Answer: C 40. Some teenagers associate name brand handbags, clothing, and sunglasses with being hip, cool, and admired. Which theorists would be most interested in the symbols attached to such merchandise? A) Functionalists B) Conflict theorists C) Symbolic interactionists D) Ecofeminists Answer: C 41. Akan believes that child labor is not considered a social problem in some West African societies because it is an accepted pattern of behavior. Akan’s views are in line with __________. A) functionalism B) conflict theory C) symbolic interactionism D) ecofeminism Answer: C 42. The baseball team members know that when the pitcher wipes his brow, he is about to throw a fastball. The pitcher’s brow-wiping is a __________. A) symbol B) capitalist C) label D) dysfunction Answer: A 43. Lola saw her teacher scold another student, Wanda. Lola imagines how Wanda must be feeling and concludes that Wanda probably feels embarrassed. As Lola empathizes with Wanda, she is __________. A) using the looking-glass self B) employing the sociological imagination C) taking the role of the other D) being a feminist Answer: C 44. Reggie is in prison serving 20 years for a crime that he did not commit. Reggie understands his circumstances to be God’s will. This illustrates the __________. A) looking-glass self B) generalized other C) sociological imagination D) social construction of reality Answer: D 45. Early in our history, problems of old age were considered to be __________. A) conflictual problems B) family problems C) personal problems D) social problems Answer: C 46. According to Cooley, which of the following determines self-esteem? A) Generalized other B) Looking-glass self C) Taking the role of the other D) Labeling Answer: B 47. Tameka teaches her children that people come to view themselves as they think others perceive them. Tameka is teaching her children about __________. A) the looking-glass self B) phenomenological sociology C) disengagement theory D) labeling Answer: A 48. How old do you have to be to be considered a supercentenarian? A) At least 100 years old B) At least 110 years old C) At least 120 years old D) At least 125 years old Answer: B 49. The Human Resources Officer denied Mrs. Merkel employment because she believes that at 62 years of age, Mrs. Merkel is too old to start a new career. This is an example of __________. A) gerontology B) conflict C) ageism D) labeling Answer: C 50. When we think about the future of Social Security, it is important to think about funding using which of the following concepts? A) Looking-glass self B) Social construction of reality C) Dependency ratio D) Generalized other Answer: C FILL IN THE BLANK 51. __________ assert that society is made up of parts that work together to benefit the whole. Answer: Functionalists 52. A failure in society’s functioning is called a __________. Answer: dysfunction 53. __________ proposed that sociologists must consider structure to understand society. Answer: Emile Durkheim 54. When adult children find love again in their relationship with their parent after placing them in a nursing home, this is known as a __________. Answer: latent function 55. __________ assert that society is made up of groups competing with one another. Answer: Conflict theorists 56. Both __________ and __________ focus on oppression of the powerless by the powerful. Answer: conflict theory and feminist theory 57. __________ states that patriarchy oppresses women and the environment. Answer: Ecofeminism 58. __________ suggests that society must be dismantled entirely in order to dissolve patriarchy. Answer: Radical feminism 59. The term “looking-glass self” was coined by __________. Answer: Charles Horton Cooley 60. Susan is trying to figure out why she received a D on the test. This is known as __________. Answer: the social construction of reality TRUE/FALSE 61. Sociologists use three main theories to examine social problems. Answer: True 62. Herbert Spencer is the founder of sociology. Answer: False 63. Most Americans over the age of 65 live in nursing homes. Answer: False 64. Japan’s population is aging faster than that of any other nation. Answer: True 65. The founder of conflict theory was August Comte. Answer: False 66. Patriarchy is rule by women. Answer: False 67. There are 8 different branches of feminism. Answer: False 68. What people consider to be a social problem changes from one historical period to another. Answer: True 69. Americans have always placed a low value on the elderly. Answer: False 70. The percentage of elderly who are poor is higher today than in 1970. Answer: False SHORT ANSWER 71. What were the conditions that led to the development of conflict theory? Answer: Conflict theory developed as a response to the inequalities and power imbalances in society, particularly focusing on economic disparities, class struggles, and the exploitation of marginalized groups by those in power. It emphasizes how conflict over resources, status, and power drives social change and shapes societal structures. 72. Compare and contrast the five branches of feminism. Answer: 1. Liberal Feminism: Focuses on achieving gender equality through legislative reform and equal rights, emphasizing individual rights and opportunities. 2. Radical Feminism: Views patriarchy as the root cause of women's oppression, advocating for fundamental societal change and sometimes separatism from men. 3. Marxist or Socialist Feminism: Integrates feminist analysis with Marxist theory, highlighting how capitalism and class dynamics intersect with gender oppression. 4. Cultural Feminism: Emphasizes essential differences between men and women, celebrating feminine qualities and advocating for women's unique strengths. 5. Postmodern or Post structural Feminism: Challenges essentialist views of gender, questioning fixed categories and exploring how power relations construct identities. Each branch offers distinct perspectives on gender issues, ranging from legal reforms to critiques of broader societal structures and cultural norms. 73. Explain the social construction of reality and give an example of how your interpretation of symbols has shaped your life. Answer: The social construction of reality refers to the process by which individuals and groups create their understanding and perception of the world through shared meanings, symbols, and language. These constructs shape our beliefs, behaviors, and interactions. For example, my interpretation of symbols has shaped my life through cultural norms and personal experiences. Growing up, I learned that certain gestures, like a handshake, signify respect and agreement in my culture. This understanding influenced how I engage in professional settings and build relationships, reflecting the shared meanings embedded in these symbols within my social context. 74. How have images of the elderly changed over time? Answer: Images of the elderly have evolved significantly over time. Initially viewed through a lens of respect and wisdom in traditional societies, industrialization and urbanization often shifted perceptions to emphasize dependence and decline. In recent decades, efforts in media and advocacy have aimed to promote positive and diverse portrayals, highlighting active aging, resilience, and contributions to society. 75. Discuss the Gray Panthers' concept of ageism as well as their goals. Answer: The Gray Panthers, founded in 1970, challenge ageism, viewing it as discrimination based on age that limits opportunities and perpetuates stereotypes. Their goals include promoting intergenerational collaboration, advocating for policies that support older adults' rights and dignity, and combating age-based prejudice in all aspects of society. They aim to empower older adults to participate fully in civic life and achieve social justice across generations. ESSAY 76. Compare and contrast how the three main theories used by sociologists explain what society is, what social problems are, and how social problems develop. Ideal Answer: The ideal answer should include: • Explain each of the three main theories: functionalist, conflict and symbolic interactionist. • Explain how each of those theories understand the basic dynamics of a society. • Identify how these theories explain the existence, construction, and development of social problems. Sample Answer: 1. Structural Functionalism: • Society: Complex system maintaining stability. • Social Problems: Disruptions to system function. • Development: Failures in social structures. 2. Conflict Theory: • Society: Arena of inequality and power struggles. • Social Problems: Result from exploitation and oppression. • Development: Stem from competition for resources. 3. Symbolic Interactionism: • Society: Created through everyday interactions. • Social Problems: Arise from subjective meanings. • Development: Defined through labeling processes. 77. What are the population changes occurring in Japan? What strategies are being used to address the rising social problem? Which theory do these solutions coincide with? Ideal Answer: The ideal answer should include: • Explain how population composition in Japan has changed. • Identify the strategies being implemented by the government. • Apply functionalist theory. Sample Answer: Population changes in Japan include declining birth rates, an aging population, and a shrinking workforce. To address these issues, Japan has implemented strategies such as promoting immigration, encouraging women to enter the workforce, and enhancing social security systems for the elderly. These solutions align with Structural Functionalism, as they aim to maintain societal stability by addressing disruptions caused by demographic shifts. 78. How would a functionalist analyze nursing homes? Be sure to include manifest functions, latent functions, and dysfunctions. How should nursing homes be used ideally, according to functionalists? Ideal Answer: The ideal answer should include: • Describe what a nursing home is and the role they play in society. • Note the manifest functions, latent functions, and dysfunctions. • Evaluate what would be the ideal role for nursing homes from a functionalist perspective. Sample Answer: Functionalists would analyze nursing homes as institutions that serve several functions in society: 1. Manifest Functions: • Care for the Elderly: Providing a place for elderly individuals who require assistance with daily activities and medical care. • Socialization: Creating a community where residents can interact and engage in social activities. 2. Latent Functions: • Relief for Families: Allowing families to fulfill other roles and responsibilities while their elderly loved ones receive care. • Employment: Creating jobs for caregivers, nurses, and other staff members. 3. Dysfunctions: • Social Isolation: Some residents may experience loneliness or a lack of social interaction. • Quality Issues: Nursing homes may face challenges related to quality of care, staffing shortages, or financial constraints. According to functionalists, nursing homes should ideally function as supportive institutions that contribute to the stability of society by providing essential care for elderly individuals who cannot be adequately cared for at home. They should foster a sense of community and social interaction while ensuring high-quality care to maintain the well-being of residents. 79. What are the problems with Social Security that create a conflict between the young and the old? How could these problems be ameliorated? What would be the long-term effects of doing nothing? Ideal Answer: The ideal answer should include: • Explain the components of Social Security. • Identify points of frustration or conflict between young and old with regard to Social Security. • Note the policy solutions available to fix Social Security. • Explain the effects of these solutions. Sample Answer: Problems with Social Security: 1. Generational Conflict: Younger generations fear they may not receive benefits in the future due to the aging population and potential insolvency of the system. 2. Financial Sustainability: Rising life expectancy and lower birth rates strain the system's ability to fund benefits adequately. Potential Solutions: 1. Increase Retirement Age: Adjusting the retirement age to reflect longer life spans could help balance benefits with contributions. 2. Raise Payroll Taxes: Gradually increasing payroll taxes could boost funding for Social Security. 3. Reduce Benefits: Adjusting benefit formulas or eligibility criteria could lessen strain on the system. Long-Term Effects of Inaction: 1. Financial Instability: Social Security could face insolvency, leading to reduced benefits or increased taxes in the future. 2. Inter-generational Tension: Younger generations may bear a heavier financial burden without receiving promised benefits, leading to societal unrest. Addressing these issues promptly is crucial to ensuring the sustainability and equitable distribution of Social Security benefits across generations. 80. How do the three theoretical perspectives understand the battle between the young and the elderly? What are the points of disagreement and agreement? Ideal Answer: The ideal answer should include: • Explain each of the three major theories with regard to the young and the elderly. • Compare and contrast their approaches. • Note the points of agreement and disagreement. Sample Answer: 1. Structural Functionalism: • Agreement: Views intergenerational support as essential for societal stability. • Disagreement: May overlook conflicts over resource allocation and generational equity. 2. Conflict Theory: • Agreement: Recognizes power struggles over resources, including social security benefits. • Disagreement: Focuses more on exploitation and inequality rather than shared societal benefits. 3. Symbolic Interactionism: • Agreement: Acknowledges how perceptions and meanings of generational roles influence interactions. • Disagreement: Less emphasis on structural factors and more on individual interactions and perceptions. Test Bank for Social Problems: A Down-to-Earth Approach James M. Henslin 9780205968848, 9781292039862, 9780205965120, 9780205004164, 9780135164709
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