The 3 theories are structural Functionalism, Conflict, and Symbolic Interactionism theory.

Question

   Sue argues that education is beneficial for society because it teaches children how to read, meet deadlines, and interact with others.

Which theory best describes this? Why?

   Michael says that education is unequal and perpetuates the social class system. Wealthier kids get more resources and better-experienced teachers compared to poorer kids. In addition, he argues that the "winners" of history are the ones that get to write the textbooks.

Which theory best describes this? Why?

 Sarah says that going to college is important because of the meaning society puts behind a degree. A college and high school graduate may have the same level of intelligence but society puts more weight on a college degree than a high school degree.

Which theory best describes this? Why?

 A rich person who commits a crime is less likely to receive a harsh sentence than a poor person that commits the same crime. 

Which theory best describes this? Why?

Billy is suspended in 2nd grade for roughhousing with another boy. He develops a reputation for being a "troublemaker" and he later ends up dropping out of school.

Which theory best describes this? Why?

  The criminal justice system is necessary for teaching people how not to behave in society. Laws set boundaries and structure for people.

Which theory best describes this? Why?

Answer 1

Michael is using the conflict theory because he views society as a struggle for resources and is concerned with inequality.

Sarah is using the symbolic interactionist theory because she is focused on the meaning and interpretation of college degrees.

The rich person criminal justice example is taken from the conflict perspective because it highlights the unequal distribution of rewards and punishments in society.

Billy situation can be explained using the symbolic interactionist theory because is associated with the self-fulfilling prophecy where people tend to live up to expectations of themselves. This could also be explained using the labeling theory which describes that people become deviant bases on the labels that are forced on them.

The criminal justice example is applying the structural functionalist perspective because it is concerned with the functions and dysfunctions of society.