Social Structure The complex framework of social institution and practices that establish limits on behavior
What is a status? A recognized social position that an individual occupies. It defines who we are in relation to others Example: Teacher, Daughter, Friend, Coach, Sister
KINDS OF STATUS ASCRIBED A social position one receives at birth or involuntarily later in life (age, race, gender, ethnicity) ACHIEVED A social position that one assumes voluntarily and reflects a person’s ability and effort (occupation, income, education)
MASTER STATUS A status that is of exceptional importance for social identity often shaping one’s entire live. (being a parent, being a doctor, being a good son, etc.) STATUS SYMBOL: Material signs that inform others of a person’s status (Wedding ring, Rolls Royce)
Roles Behavior expected of someone who holds a certain status
Role Set A number of roles attached to a single status. What roles do you was the President of the United States to hold?
ROLES ROLE EXPECTATION HOW SOCIETY BELIEVES A CERTAIN ROLE SHOULD ACT ROLE PERFORMANCE HOW A PERSON ACTUALLY PLAYS A ROLE
Roles ROLE CONFLICT: The incompatibility among roles corresponding to two or more different statuses. Ex: A woman struggles with working full time and being a devoted mother ROLE STRAIN: The incompatibility among roles corresponding to a single status. Ex: Female athletes, struggle between being viewed as “feminine” as well as an “athlete”
ROLES DISTANCING: when individuals attempt to separate themselves from a particular role by not being committed to it. They often think this role is “beneath them” Don’t want to be associated with a certain job out of fears others will look down on them.
Role Exit ROLE EXIT: The process by which people disengage from social roles that have been central to their lives
Four stages of role exit: 1. DOUBT: Frustration or burnout with current role 2. ALTERNATIVES: individuals look for an alternative to their current status or role. 3. TURNING POINT: Individual finally realizes they must take some action. 4. NEW IDENTITY: Create a new role for yourself.