Question

Sociological studies test relationships in which change in one ______ causes change in another.

Answer 1

Sociological studies explore the relationship between independent and dependent variables, observing changes and associations. They apply operational definitions to their terms and establish a correlation between variables, while also considering social facts and questioning straightforward causality.

Step-by-step explanation:

Sociological studies test relationships in which change in one variable causes change in another. This concept is known as a correlation, where an association between variables occurs such that a modification in one is linked with a change in the other. In the context of sociological research, an independent variable is the condition or factor that is manipulated to observe its effect on a dependent variable.

For example, a sociologist might investigate how gender (the independent variable) affects the rate of income (the dependent variable). Another study could examine how one's religion (the independent variable) impacts family size (the dependent variable). Similarly, the effect of level of education (the independent variable) on social class (the dependent variable) could be an area of study. These examinations are all centered on the understanding of cause and effect within social constructs.

Sociologists apply operational definitions to their terms and establish dependent and independent variables before conducting a study. They may also examine social facts—including laws, morals, values, and cultural rules—and how these contribute to family changes or societal patterns. It is crucial, however, to understand that causality is not always straightforward; a relationship between two variables does not necessarily imply that one causes the other.

Answer 2

Sociological studies test relationships in which change in one variable causes change in another.

For instance a sociological study might test the effect of ethnicity (independent variable) on income levels (dependent variables). This means that the study will test whether being Caucasian, Asian, Hispanic, African, etc., affect how much or how little a person earns from his or her employment. The result of this investigation can indicate how a change in ethnicity (a variable) creates a change in income (another variable).