1.
Sociology is the study of:
Correct Answer
D. All of the above
Explanation
Sociology is the study of all aspects of human social behavior and society. It encompasses the study of people in a society, their interactions with each other, and the social institutions that shape their behavior. By studying all of these elements, sociology aims to understand how society functions, the patterns and structures that exist within it, and how individuals and groups are influenced by social forces. Therefore, the correct answer is "All of the above" as sociology encompasses the study of people, interactions, and social institutions.
2.
Which theory believes that people in society battle over scarce resources like money, power, and prestige?
Correct Answer
B. Conflict
Explanation
Conflict theory believes that people in society battle over scarce resources like money, power, and prestige. This theory suggests that social inequality and conflict are inherent in society, and that these conflicts arise from the unequal distribution of resources. Conflict theorists argue that these struggles for resources can lead to social change and the creation of social institutions that benefit those in power. This perspective emphasizes the role of power dynamics and competition in shaping social relationships and structures.
3.
Which research method utilizes public records such as marriage and divorce certificates, police records, and birth and death certificates?
Correct Answer
D. Secondary data analysis
Explanation
Secondary data analysis is the research method that utilizes public records such as marriage and divorce certificates, police records, and birth and death certificates. This method involves analyzing existing data that has been collected by other researchers or organizations for a different purpose. It allows researchers to examine large amounts of data without having to collect it themselves.
4.
A person who weighs 100 pounds steps onto a scale which indicates that they weigh 200 pounds. He/she gets off the scale, steps back on, and it still reads 200 pounds. That scale is considered:
Correct Answer
A. Reliable but not valid
Explanation
The scale is considered reliable because it consistently gives the same reading of 200 pounds when the person steps on it multiple times. However, it is not considered valid because the reading of 200 pounds is not accurate or true to the person's actual weight of 100 pounds.
5.
Which of the following is NOT an ethic from the American Sociological Association that all researchers must follow?
Correct Answer
A. Monetarily compensate the respondents
Explanation
The correct answer is "Monetarily compensate the respondents." This is not an ethic from the American Sociological Association that all researchers must follow. While researchers are expected to protect the respondent's mental/physical welfare, publish all findings, and state who funded the research, there is no requirement to provide monetary compensation to the respondents.
6.
The Hawthorne effect explains how human behavior is altered when being watched.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The Hawthorne effect refers to the phenomenon where individuals modify their behavior when they are aware that they are being observed. This effect suggests that people may act differently or improve their performance when they know they are being watched, which can lead to biased results in research or workplace settings. This concept has been extensively studied in various fields, including psychology and sociology, and has significant implications for understanding human behavior in social contexts.
7.
If a researcher wished to collect data from a group such as females in California or men over the age of 30, these groups would be known as:
Correct Answer
B. Population
Explanation
The term "population" refers to the entire group of individuals that a researcher is interested in studying. In this case, the researcher wants to collect data from specific groups such as females in California or men over the age of 30. These groups are subsets of the larger population and are considered part of the population as a whole. Therefore, the correct answer is "population."
8.
When conducting research, all biases, prejudices, and assumptions must be suspended.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
When conducting research, it is important to suspend biases, prejudices, and assumptions because these can influence the process and outcomes of the research. Biases can lead to skewed data and inaccurate conclusions, while prejudices can introduce unfairness and discrimination. Assumptions can limit the scope of the research and prevent the exploration of alternative perspectives. Therefore, to ensure objectivity and reliability, researchers should strive to set aside their personal biases, prejudices, and assumptions when conducting their studies.
9.
Which theory believes that society is made up of many building blocks that all play a part in maintaining stability?
Correct Answer
A. Structural functionalism
Explanation
Structural functionalism is a theory that believes society is made up of various interconnected parts or building blocks, each of which serves a specific function in maintaining stability. This theory emphasizes the importance of social institutions and their roles in promoting social order and cohesion. It suggests that individuals and groups have specific roles and responsibilities that contribute to the overall functioning and equilibrium of society.
10.
Which research method would be likely to yield the most valid results for respondents in their natural setting?
Correct Answer
B. Observation
Explanation
Observation would likely yield the most valid results for respondents in their natural setting because it involves directly observing and recording behavior in real-life situations without any manipulation or interference. This method allows researchers to gather data in a natural environment, which can provide a more accurate representation of how individuals behave and interact. By simply observing participants without any intervention, researchers can minimize the potential biases and artificiality that may occur in other research methods.