Final answer:
The possibility of earning privileges influences boys' decisions by providing motivation to maintain or improve grades, leading to increased efforts in academic pursuits. However, the distribution and accessibility of these privileges may raise concerns about equity, with certain groups facing more hurdles than others. Overall, this prospect can be a powerful incentive for students to work harder and pursue success.
Step-by-step explanation:
The possibility of earning privileges influences boys' decisions significantly. For students with 'A' grades before a change, the prospect of earning privileges could lead them to continue their hard work or feel demotivated if they perceive the rewards as insufficient. These students might strive to maintain their high performance in order to keep or obtain additional privileges.
Students with 'C' grades before the change might feel encouraged by the opportunity to earn privileges. This could motivate them to improve their grades and become more engaged with their schooling. They might act by putting in more effort, participating more in class, or seeking extra help.
Students with 'F' grades might feel that the ability to earn privileges offers a tangible goal to work towards. This could provide a strong incentive to improve their grades, potentially resulting in increased attendance and participation in efforts to raise their grades.
However, some may question how equitable the distribution of privileges is across different groups of students. There are concerns that students who couldn't get into elite colleges without cheating would struggle and that their lack of preparation would become apparent. Inmates participating in programs to earn privileges might also feel coerced, as they may not feel truly free to refuse participation due to promised benefits.
Additionally, the issue of social stratification affects which students feel more motivated to earn privileges. Those from more privileged backgrounds may have an easier time accessing these rewards. There have been complaints that the implementation of plans to earn privileges is often unequal across racial lines, with minority students facing more challenges. Parents also question the value of privileges if they come with significant sacrifices, such as early commutes or exposure to racial prejudice.
In summary, the desire to earn more money and the promise of privileges can encourage people to work harder and longer, as highlighted by Davis and Moore's beliefs. Thus, the potential of earning privileges can play a critical role in shaping students' decisions and actions.