Question

A sociologist conducts research into the ways that Hispanic American students are historically underprivileged in the U.S. education system. What theoretical approach is the sociologist using?
Symbolic interactionism
Functionalism
Conflict theory
Ethnocentrism

Answer 1

The correct answer is C. Conflict theory

Explanation:

Sociology is the discipline that studies societies and all elements that are part of it including interaction, culture and social relationships In terms of social relationships there are different approaches from sociology that explain this aspect including symbolic interactionism, functionalism and conflict theory. In the case of conflict theory, this approach proposes the structure of society is mainly unequal as individuals have different power depending on their age, class, ethnicity, origin, etc which means certain individuals have privileges and power over others and this is supported by social norms. Therefore if a sociologist focuses on studying the way Hispanic American students are underprivileged in the U.S. education system the theoretical approach he is using is conflict theory, because according to this theory ceratin individuals which in this case are U.S. students have benefits and power over others which in this case are Hispanic American students.