Question 1

Which theory posits that any social interaction between two people is based on the efforts of each person to maximize rewards and minimize costs?

Accepted Answer

Social exchange theory posits that individuals enter into social interactions with the goal of maximizing rewards and minimizing costs, based on a rational calculation of the potential benefits and drawbacks of the interaction. This theory is rooted in economics and suggests that social interactions can be analyzed as exchanges of goods or services, with individuals expecting a certain level of return on their investment in the relationship.

Question 2

Any well-defined group of people (or things)that researchers want to know something about is called a

Accepted Answer

A population is the entire group of people or things that researchers want to study. A sample is a smaller subset of the population that researchers select to study. A focus group is a specific type of sample used in qualitative research, where a small group of people participate in a discussion about a topic. A variable is a characteristic or attribute that can take on different values or levels.

Question 3

A group of people (or things)that are representative of the population that a researcher wishes to study is called a

Accepted Answer

A sample is a subset of the population that a researcher selects in order to study and make inferences about the larger population. The sample should be representative of the population to ensure that the results of the study can be generalized to the larger population. A population (A) refers to the entire group of people or things being studied, while a variable (B) is the characteristic being measured or studied in the research. A focus group (D) is a specific type of qualitative research method that involves a small group of people discussing a specific topic, and is not necessarily representative of the larger population.

Question 4

Which theory views the family as a functioning unit that solves problems,makes decisions,and achieves collective goals?

Accepted Answer

Family Systems Theory views the family as a functioning unit that solves problems, makes decisions, and achieves collective goals, emphasizing the interconnectedness and interdependence of family members.

Question 5

Marlene is a wife,grandmother,sister,daughter,and an aunt.These are examples of Marlene's

Accepted Answer

Marlene's roles refer to the different social positions she occupies in relation to her family members.

Question 6

Which of the following is a criticism of family systems theory?

Accepted Answer

While family systems theory provides a framework for understanding family dynamics, some critics argue that it has created complex terminology without necessarily providing a deeper understanding of family functioning.

Question 7

A major limitation of surveys that use mailed questionnaires is

Accepted Answer

Mailed questionnaires often have a low response rate, which can limit the representativeness of the sample and the generalizability of the results. This can be due to a variety of factors, such as respondents not receiving the survey or not being motivated to complete and return it.

Question 8

__________ research studies individuals or small groups of people who seek help from mental health officials and other scientists.

Accepted Answer

Clinical research focuses on studying individuals or small groups seeking help from mental health professionals and other scientists. Surveys are a type of research method that collects information from a large population, participant research involves observing or testing participants in a study, and qualitative research aims to gather non-numerical data such as interviews or observations.

Question 9

According to the social exchange perspective,when would a marriage end in a separation or divorce?

Accepted Answer

According to the social exchange perspective, individuals in a relationship weigh the costs and rewards of that relationship. When the costs (such as dissatisfaction, conflict, or lack of fulfillment) outweigh the rewards (such as love, companionship, and support), individuals may choose to end the relationship through separation or divorce.

Question 10

Researchers use which of the following methods to systematically collect data from respondents through questionnaires or interviews?

Accepted Answer

Surveys are specifically designed to systematically collect data from respondents through questionnaires or interviews.

Question 11

When a small number of people participate in a guided discussion of a particular topic so that researchers can learn more about certain issues,the group is called a

Accepted Answer

A guided discussion of a particular topic with a small group of people is commonly known as a focus group. This technique is used by researchers to gather information and insights about certain issues from a specific group of people. Study group, experimental group, and population are not appropriate choices for this context.

Question 12

Which of the following is a strength of telephone surveying?

Accepted Answer

Telephone surveying allows respondents to feel anonymous and therefore more willing to give honest answers, especially on controversial issues.

Question 13

The most common criticism of symbolic interaction theory is that it ignores

Accepted Answer

Symbolic interaction theory is often criticized for focusing too much on micro-level interactions and neglecting the influence of larger societal structures and macro-level factors on the family.

Question 14

Researchers who collect data or examine data on families such as age at first marriage or family size are doing _________________ research.

Accepted Answer

Quantitative research involves collecting and analyzing numerical data, such as age and family size, which is applicable in this scenario. Qualitative research, on the other hand, involves subjective data such as opinions and experiences, while interpretive research focuses on understanding the meaning behind social phenomena. Analytical research involves breaking down complex issues into smaller components to understand them better.

Question 15

In a(n)_____________________ sample,each person (or thing)has an equal chance of being chosen.

Accepted Answer

In a probability sample, each person or thing has an equal chance of being chosen, which means that the sample is randomly selected and representative of the population. Option A (availability) refers to a sample that is chosen on the basis of what is easily accessible, which may not be representative of the population. Option C (nonprobability) refers to a sample that does not involve random selection, which may introduce bias into the sample. Option D (convenience) refers to a sample that is chosen based on what is convenient, which may also introduce bias into the sample.

Question 16

A traditional approach used by social workers,psychologists,clinical sociologists,and marriage counselors,which provides in-depth information and detailed and vivid descriptions of family life,is called the __________ method.

Accepted Answer

The case study method provides in-depth information and detailed descriptions of family life, making it a typical approach used by professionals like social workers, psychologists, clinical sociologists, and marriage counselors. The other choices (small group, participant observation, and focused detail) do not necessarily involve as much in-depth information or vivid descriptions of family life.

Question 17

Social exchange theory has been criticized for giving too much weight to

Accepted Answer

Social exchange theory focuses on the rational decisions made by individuals in social interactions. Critics argue that this approach overlooks the emotional and relational aspects of human behavior, and places too much emphasis on self-interested decision-making. Therefore, option A is the best choice.

Question 18

According to family systems theory,a key concept is ____________________; that is a change in one part of the family or external environment sets in motion an adjustment process to restore the family to the way it was in the past.

Accepted Answer

Equilibrium is a key concept in family systems theory. The theory suggests that families strive to maintain a balance or stability, or equilibrium, within the family system. Any change in one part of the family or external environment can disrupt this equilibrium, and the family will adjust in response to restore the balance. This process is known as homeostasis.

Question 19

When researchers use criteria such as convenience or availability of participants,they are using a

Accepted Answer

When researchers use criteria such as convenience or availability of participants, they are using a nonprobability sample. Nonprobability samples are often used in social science research when a probability sample (random sample or probability sampling method) is not feasible or practical. Convenience sampling is a type of nonprobability sampling method where participants are included based on their availability or accessibility. Therefore, option C is the correct answer. Options A, B, and D do not accurately reflect the sampling method described.

Question 20

The problem with television news and entertainment shows that provide a toll-free number and encourage viewers to "vote" is that the sample they get is

Accepted Answer

Since the viewers who choose to call in or vote are self-selecting, this creates a nonprobability sample that may not accurately represent the larger population. Thus, the results cannot be generalized to the entire population.

Quiz 2: Studying the Family