Choose one of the following sociological frameworks and discuss the sociological
ID: 3448189 • Letter: C
Question
Choose one of the following sociological frameworks and discuss the sociological reason(s) for the increasing number of teenagers who abuse prescription drugs for non-medical reasons.
Functionalism
Conflict Theory
Symbolic Interaction Theory
In your first paragraph
Briefly discuss the major concept of the framework that you chose to use to form your argument.
In your second paragraph
Discuss at least one sociological reason for the above stated societal trend. Present some specific examples to support your argument. for example If you choose Symbolic Interaction Theory make sure you discuss why and how teens develop different perception and meanings to this type of behavior - namely, abusing prescription drugs - from those of other age groups.
Explanation / Answer
The functionalism conceptualises society as a system of interconnected parts that work together in harmony to maintain a state of balance and equilibrium for the whole. A society is comprised of several smaller units. For instance, institutions such as family, education, religion, politics and the like fulfill certain responsibilities that lead to the functioning of the society. The functions of these subsystems maybe manifest wherein consequences are intentional and recognised, or latent, wherein the consequences are unintentional and hidden.
The functional perspective would explain the development of gender roles the need to establish a division of labor that will help maintain the smooth running of the family and therefore contribute to the stability of society at large. The other systems also indirectly support this structure. Males and females directly or indirectly learn different approaches to life and specific forms of behaviour. Although traditional gender roles are now changing with time, which is also a reflection of the changing society in general, many males and females still grow up as adults believing in the division,