Essential Sociological Theories and Concepts
Sex vs Gender
Sex refers to the biological and physiological differences we are born with. Gender refers to the social and cultural expectations of behavior that we learn and perform in society.
Functionalist Theory of Gender (Talcott Parsons)
The Functionalist Theory of Gender (Talcott Parsons) argues that gender differences exist to keep society stable. Women take on expressive roles (care and emotional support), while men take on instrumental roles.
Glass Ceiling vs Glass Escalator
The glass ceiling
Read MorePhenomenological and Humanistic Perspectives in Personality
Phenomenological Approach
Core premise: Understanding a person requires grasping their subjective perspective. Key emphasis: Present-focused experience — what the individual is thinking, feeling, and perceiving right now. Individual’s unique reality — each person constructs their own view of the world.
Sub-orientations within Phenomenology
- Humanistic orientation — a subset of phenomenology; emphasizes personal growth and self-actualization.
- Existential psychology — explores meaning, freedom,
Fundamentals of Engineering Research: Definition and Process
Meaning of Research
Research refers to a careful, well-defined (or redefined), objective, and systematic method of search for knowledge, or formulation of a theory that is driven by inquisitiveness for that which is unknown and useful on a particular aspect so as to make an original contribution to expand the existing knowledge base.
- Research involves formulation of a hypothesis or proposition of solutions, data analysis, and deductions; and ascertaining whether the conclusions fit the hypothesis.
Foundational Concepts in Criminology and Theory
Determining the Value of a Theory
- Logic
- Utility
- Testability
- Empirical Validity
- Parsimony
Assumptions of Deterrence Theory
Severity, Certainty, and Swiftness (Celerity) lead to greater control over criminal behavior.
Three Principles of Deterrence Theory
- Severity: Degree of punishment.
- Certainty: Assurance and consistency of punishment.
- Celerity (Swiftness): Speed of punishment.
Alternative Explanations for Assessing Deterrent Effects
- Backlash: Committing more crime.
- Crime Displacement: Shifts in the time, place,
Emotional Intelligence: Components, Skills, and Applications
The Components of Emotional Intelligence (Goleman’s Model)
- Self-Awareness: Recognizing your emotions and their impact; includes emotional awareness and self-confidence.
- Self-Regulation: Managing disruptive impulses; includes trustworthiness, conscientiousness, and adaptability.
- Motivation: Internal drive to achieve beyond money or status; includes commitment and initiative.
- Empathy: Understanding the emotional makeup of others; vital for cross-cultural sensitivity.
- Social Skills: Proficiency in managing
Essential Terms in Behavioral Science and Social Research
Key Concepts in Behavioral Science and Social Research
Discrimination and Bias
- Ableism: Discrimination in favor of able-bodied people.
- Ageism: Discrimination against persons of a certain age group.
Personality Traits and Temperaments
- Agreeableness: The tendency to act in a cooperative, unselfish manner, construed as one end of a dimension of individual differences.
- Ambiversion/Ambivert: A state intermediate between extroversion and introversion.
- Conscientiousness: The quality of wishing to do one’s work