Introduction to Anthropology, Psychology, and Sociology

The ability to express ideas and findings in a clear and concise manner, using appropriate language and structure.

The process of learning and internalizing the norms, values, beliefs, and behaviors of a society or culture.

The application of a set of theories and methods to understand human behavior and culture. It emphasizes the study of diverse cultures and societies.

The application of principles and methods to understand the mind and how it influences behavior.

A systematic approach to gathering information and investigating phenomena. In social sciences, this includes methods like observation, interviews, surveys, and experiments.

The ability to think critically, analyze information, and draw meaningful conclusions.

The ability to effectively communicate research findings and ideas, while also reflecting on the effectiveness of the communication process.

Understanding major theories and perspectives within anthropology, along with the methods used for research.

The study of the bone and stone remains of ancient humans to understand our past.

The part of the unconscious mind that drives our basic needs and desires for instant gratification.

The part of the unconscious mind that promotes moral behavior and societal rules.

The part of the unconscious mind that balances our desires with reality and social norms.

Erikson's first stage of psychosocial development, where infants learn to trust or mistrust their caregivers.

Erikson's final stage of psychosocial development, where individuals reflect on their life and either feel fulfillment or regret.

The influence of genetics and inherited traits on an individual's development.

The influence of environmental factors and experiences on an individual's development.

The idea that cultures should be understood and evaluated within their own historical and social contexts, not judging them against one's own cultural standards.

The idea that the material aspects of a culture, like technology and resources, shape its social, political, and religious institutions.

A theory that explains how every aspect of a culture—beliefs, customs, behaviors—contributes to the overall well-being and stability of society. It emphasizes the interconnectedness of all parts of a culture.

The study of human society and culture using a variety of theoretical perspectives and research methods. It explores the complex relationships between individuals, groups, and social institutions.

The process in which natural selection favors organisms that have traits best suited to their environment. It is the basis for evolution.

These are the basic units of meaning that help us understand the world. They can be symbols, gestures, or even objects, all of which have shared meanings within a culture.

A theory that explains how diverse factors, such as social structures, culture, and personal experiences, influence individual and group behavior. It helps us understand why people act in specific ways.

This theory posits that individuals choose mates based on characteristics that ensure the survival and successful transmission of their genes to future generations. It's about optimizing the offspring's chances of survival.

This theory emphasizes the role of unconscious idealized images formed based on individual interpretations and experiences in shaping mate preferences.

This theory suggests that people join cults because they haven't met their needs for love and belonging. They are seeking a sense of connection and purpose.

Deviance refers to actions that violate social norms and expectations. It includes behaviors that go against the unwritten rules and values of a society.

This type of conformity involves going along with the crowd, even if secretly disagreeing. It's about public compliance to fit in, avoiding potentially negative consequences.

Participant observation is a research method where the researcher immerses themselves in the culture or group being studied to gain a deeper understanding. It involves active participation and observation, offering rich insights.

Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs is a pyramid that outlines human needs in a hierarchical order, from basic survival needs to self-actualization. It provides a framework for understanding human motivation and behavior.

This theory emphasizes the role of observing and learning from others in shaping behavior. The Bobo Doll experiment demonstrates that children learn aggressive behaviors by observing aggressive models.

Theories that explain how prejudice and discrimination develop, including social learning theory, which suggests that individuals learn discriminatory attitudes through observation and socialization; realistic conflict theory, which posits that discrimination arises from competition for resources; and scapegoat theory, which attributes blame to a specific group for societal problems.

Gangs and cults are similar in their use of social control mechanisms and group identity. They both employ strategies to regulate members' behavior and enforce conformity. They both offer a sense of belonging and provide a supportive community for individuals. Socialization, in-group/out-group dynamics, conformity pressures and social control are all part of the group.

The study of human societies and cultures through the lens of social structures, institutions, and processes. Sociologists examine how individuals interact within groups, how societies are organized, and the causes of social phenomena.

An anthropologist would likely ask questions to understand the cultural context of this behavior, such as: "What are the cultural norms and values related to social media use in this community?" or "How does the school's culture contribute to the anxieties and behavioral changes observed in students?"

A psychologist would likely ask questions focused on individual and group psychology, such as: "What are the psychological factors contributing to student stress and anxiety?" or "How does peer pressure and social media influence the behaviors exhibited by the students?"

A sociologist would likely ask questions focused on social structures and power dynamics, such as: "How do the school's policies and practices contribute to the observed behaviors?" or "What role do social inequalities and access to resources play in student well-being?"

Researching this event could lead to insights into the impact of technology on youth well-being, the role of social media in shaping behavior, and the effectiveness of school policies in fostering a positive environment. Based on these findings, researchers could advocate for policy changes to address these issues in other communities.

This event could highlight the need for greater understanding and awareness of social media's effects on youth mental health, the importance of fostering positive school cultures, and the need for schools and communities to collaborate in supporting student well-being. Researchers can use this event to call for change and advocate for better resources for youth.