Unit 5 of 5

Unit 5: Social Change and Deviance

Study guide for CLEP CLEP Introductory SociologyUnit 5: Social Change and Deviance. Practice questions, key concepts, and exam tips.

33

Practice Questions

13

Flashcards

7

Key Topics

Key Concepts to Study

deviance definitions
labeling theory
strain theory
crime statistics
social movements
collective behavior
globalization effects

Sample Practice Questions

Try these 5 questions from this unit. Sign up for full access to all 33.

Q1MEDIUM

Which sociological theory views deviance as a result of social learning and interaction with others?

A) Anomie theory
B) Symbolic interactionism
C) Structural functionalism
D) Conflict theory
E) Differential association theory
Show Answer

Answer: EDifferential association theory is correct because differential association theory, proposed by Edwin Sutherland, emphasizes learning deviant behaviors, unlike option C which focuses on social structures.

Q2HARD

What is the primary function of social deviance, according to Émile Durkheim?

A) To challenge and change social norms
B) To reinforce social inequality and hierarchies
C) To promote individual freedom and autonomy
D) To maintain social cohesion and solidarity
E) To disrupt social institutions and create chaos
Show Answer

Answer: DTo maintain social cohesion and solidarity is correct because Durkheim argued that deviance clarifies social norms and promotes social unity, unlike option A which suggests deviance as a means to change norms.

Q3MEDIUM

What is a primary factor that drives social change?

A) Cultural diffusion
B) Government control
C) Social cohesion
D) Economic stability
E) Technological advancement
Show Answer

Answer: ACultural diffusion refers to the process by which ideas, values, and practices are transmitted from one culture to another, often driving social change. This exchange of cultural elements can lead to the adoption of new technologies, social norms, and values, ultimately transforming a society. In contrast to economic stability, which can maintain the status quo, cultural diffusion introduces new ideas that can challenge existing social structures.

Q4MEDIUM

A sociologist studying the effects of globalization on urban areas would likely examine how the growth of multinational corporations influences

A) the development of cultural norms and values in urban communities
B) the migration patterns of rural residents to urban areas
C) the distribution of wealth among social classes within a city
D) the impact of environmental policies on urban ecosystems
E) the formation of local businesses in response to global market trends
Show Answer

Answer: CGlobalization can lead to increased economic inequality within cities, as multinational corporations may exploit local labor and resources, widening the wealth gap between social classes.

Q5MEDIUM

A sociologist is studying the relationship between population density and crime rates in urban areas. Which of the following spatial concepts is most relevant to this study?

A) Geographic information systems (GIS)
B) Human ecology
C) Cultural diffusion
D) Environmental determinism
E) Spatial patterns of human settlement
Show Answer

Answer: ESpatial patterns of human settlement refers to the way people arrange themselves in a given area, influencing social interactions and behaviors. This concept is relevant to the study of population density and crime rates, as it examines how urban layouts and distributions of people affect crime. In contrast, geographic information systems (GIS) is a tool for analyzing data, not a concept that directly relates to human behavior. By examining Spatial patterns of human settlement, the sociologist can understand how urban environments contribute to crime rates.

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Study Tips for Unit 5: Social Change and Deviance

  • Focus on understanding concepts, not memorizing facts — CLEP tests application
  • Practice with timed questions to build exam-day speed
  • Review explanations for wrong answers — they reveal common misconceptions
  • Use flashcards for key terms, practice questions for deeper understanding

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