1). What is qualitative research as opposed to quantitative research? When does a research use qualitative methods, when does a researcher want to use quantitative methods? Identify and explain three ethical issues a researcher may confront when dealing with human subjects. If I told you that high ice cream sales caused high homicide rates, what steps would you go through in order to show that my assertion was flawed? (refer to causality, rules of causality)
2). How is gender socialized? Why might it be important to understand gender differences as sociological, rather than simply biological? What are some examples of social sanctioning that may occur when someone performs an alternative gender role identity? What do you think are the most influential agents of socialization after childhood? What are examples of life events we may encounter that would socialize us into new roles?
3). Identify and describe 3 criminological theories (3 sociological explanations for what would make someone more or less likely to commit crimes). Which one do you find the most compelling or makes the most sense to you and why? Does deviance always mean law breaking? What are a couple examples of breaking social norms that you think are harmful but not illegal? Conversely, what would be an example of an illegal act that you think is not out of the norm?
4). How does labeling theory explain deviance? What is primary, secondary, and tertiary deviance? Summarize what sociologists mean by “stigma” and the strategies stigmatized individuals rely on to function in society. Explain why sociologists argue that deviance and crime create and reproduce inequality between groups.
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