An introductory study of the basic concepts, theoretical approaches, and methods of sociology. Topics include culture and diversity, socialization and the self, the analysis and explanation of social structure, group dynamics, deviance, social stratification, class, race/ethnicity, gender, the family, social change, and global dynamics.

This course focuses on the identification and analysis of contemporary social problems, including topics such as: drug abuse, deviant sexual behavior, violence, crime, inequities of race, class, gender, and sexual orientation, and inequalities within our social institutions. Special attention will be given to (1) the role of power and ideology in the definition of social problems, (2) their causes and consequences, (3) evaluations of proposed solutions, and (4) methods of intervention.

This course offers a sociological analysis of the social construction of gender, masculinity, and femininity historically and cross-culturally. Students will examine the debates on sex and gender and analyze the impact of economic and political change on gender expectations and practices. Coursework will focus on how people “do” and practice gender, specifically by using a macro analysis of how institutions shape gender and a micro analysis of how individuals are socialized. (C-ID SOCI140)

Examines human behavior and the development of the self in a social context – specifically looking at the impact of culture, socialization, and institutions. Includes an investigation of topics such as social learning; attitudes; persuasion; perceptions; altruism; conformity; liking and loving; aggression; prejudice; collective action; and social movements.

This course offers a sociological analysis of the family, including: historical and recent changes; present nature and current family structures; and the socio-cultural and economic forces shaping these changes in families. Students will explore topics such as: dating, communication, conflict resolution, human sexuality, family planning, parenthood, divorce/separation, remarriage, aging, changing gender roles, and family economics. Using an intersectional, theoretical, and critical lens, students will explore the impact of oppression on family life as well as how families can function as agents of social change. (C-ID SOCI130)

Examines how and why people are labeled as deviant, the causes and consequences of deviance, and society's methods of social control. Topics include the social construction of deviance, major sociological perspectives of deviance, crime, violence, sexual deviance, substance abuse, mental disorders, criminalization, and stigmatization.