Discussion Post Help

Compare and contrast each of the three major sociological perspectives (functionalism, conflict, and symbolic interactionism) discussed in Unit 1 of the Interactive Units. Be sure to address the similarities and differences between each of the three perspectives.

Note: When looking for similarities, consider what matches in the perspectives, or theories. How are these things similar to each other? If you took notes while you were reading, you would be able to review those and look for paired concepts.

The three main theoretical perspectives in sociology are functionalism, conflict as well as symbolic interaction. Each theoretical perspective offers vital viewpoints that help people to identify, analyze as well as troubleshoot social problems. On the other hand, the three theoretical perspectives are different from each other in various ways. Functionalists examine the functions and dysfunctions of family and marriage life (Durkheim, 2014). Also, they examine how they are associated with other parts of society. Conflicts theorists focus on inequality in family and marriage, mainly unequal power between men and women. On the other hand, symbolic interactionist examines the contrasting experiences as well as the perspectives of husbands and wives in the marriage.

Select and state one social institution (education, family, or government, as discussed in Unit 1 of the Interactive Units) to analyze. Identify and discuss a social issue or problem related to the social institution. Note: Pick a social institution that you would enjoy exploring and reflecting upon. For example, if you are a parent experiencing the challenges of raising a teen, you could write about the social institution of the family.

There are various social problems that affect families. Marriage related issues such as divorce, polygamy issues are the main social problems in the family. Also, violence-related issues such as violence, a crime against children and women also affect the stability of a family.

Write three small paragraphs (2-3 sentences each)—one for each sociological perspective—in which you describe your chosen social institution from the perspectives of functionalism, conflict, and symbolic interactionism. For each paragraph, refer to at least one specific example from the Interactive Units or Required Resources to support your statements. In other words, support your ideas with evidence by connecting them to Interactive Unit content; the Resources; or something that you have read, heard, seen, or experienced. Cite your sources. Acceptable citations include “According to the Stanford Social Institutions website…”, “According to a January 5, 2015 article in the New York Times…”, and “According to Unit 1 in the Interactive Units…”

For more information on how to use evidence in an essay, please review the Walden Writing Center’s material on using evidence: http://academicguides.waldenu.edu/writingcenter/evidence

Functionalist theory perceive social structure as a system of uniqueness that holds natural laws govern society. For example, a functionalist will take a look at social interactions on a much larger scale.

The conflict perspective specifies that challenges to social norms are caused by the inequalities within social structures. For example, the disparity of power, as well as wealth, causes conflict in modern society.

Symbolic interactionism uses qualitative measures to focus on the micro-levels of social structures. For example, symbolic interactionist study communication between individuals and the creation and symbols’ interpretation used in communication.

Create a rough draft of an introduction and conclusion you might use in your Final Essay. State your thesis statement clearly in each and support that thesis with three main points. The introduction and conclusion should mirror each other but contain fresh language. In other words, the conclusion should not be a word-for-word restatement of the introduction or the thesis.

Introduction

The three main theoretical perspectives in sociology are functionalism, conflict as well as symbolic interaction. Functionalist theory perceive social structure as a system of uniqueness that holds natural laws govern society (Durkheim, 2014). The conflict perspective specifies that challenges to social norms are caused by the inequalities within social structures. Symbolic interactionism uses qualitative measures to focus on the micro-levels of social structures.

Conclusion

It is important to understand all the three sociological perspective functionalism, conflict theory as well as symbolic interactionism to have insight on the cause and effect of behaviors from society and individuals at large.