Theoretical Explanations
This alternative question addresses some of the issues posed in Q5 but is a little broader in its application. One of the biggest problems I have seen with the research paper is the difficulty students have in applying either positivism or constructionism and a sociological theory to explain a specific form of deviance. This question will give students some practice in applying the elements of a theory to a given issue, or at least I hope so!
Essentialism, and by extension positivism, is concerned with applying the scientific method to the study of social phenomenon. Sociologists use a positivist approach to understand the nature and extent of deviance, and to try to explain "Why did they do it?" We may use a deductive approach - to collect data on a specific phenomenon from which we may develop a theory that we can further test and refine - or an inductive approach - to apply the basic elements or tenets of a theory to inform what we measure and how, and then evaluate how well the theory worked. Whether we use a deductive or inductive approach, much of our work in the area of deviance involves one or more theories.
There are two parts to this question; please address both in your answer.
Already registered? Login
Not Account? Sign up
Enter your email address to reset your password
Back to Login? Click here