Unit 1 - Foundations of Sociology - Key Terms

What does it mean when differences between groups being studied are statistically significant?

• The differences are due to chance.

• The differences are the result of factors other than chance.

• The differences are not measurable.

• The differences are irrelevant.

What is a theory in social studies?

• A random guess about social events.

• A set of logically interrelated statements that attempts to describe, explain, and sometimes predict social events.

• A single statement about social behavior.

• An untested hypothesis.

What is participant observation?

• A type of field work in which the researcher observes and participates in the activity being studied.

• A type of research where the researcher only observes from a distance.

• A laboratory experiment involving participants.

• A theoretical study without fieldwork.

What is dysfunction in a social context?

• A process in society that disrupts the social system or reduces its stability.

• A process that enhances social stability.

• A minor inconvenience in social interactions.

• A positive change in social norms.

What is a hypothesis?

• A proven fact.

• A tentative statement of the relationship between two or more concepts.

• A random guess.

• An unchangeable truth.

What is direct observation in research?

• A type of field research in which the researcher observes what is being studied.

• A type of research conducted in a laboratory.

• A theoretical analysis without observation.

• A study based on secondary data.

What is organic solidarity according to Émile Durkheim?

• Social bonds in small traditional societies based on common values.

• The way in modern societies rely on differentiation to form social bonds.

• A type of research method.

• A form of social isolation.

What is descriptive research?

• Research that describes a problem or situation.

• Research that predicts future events.

• Research that involves only numerical data.

• Research that is purely theoretical.

What is the Hawthorne effect?

• A change in a subject's behavior in an experiment or study because they know they are being observed.

• A random change in behavior.

• A change in behavior due to environmental factors.

• A change in behavior due to genetic factors.

What is social Darwinism?

• Theories about society which claimed to apply concepts of natural selection and survival of the fittest to sociology.

• Theories about the evolution of animals.

• Theories about the development of technology.

• Theories about the economic growth.