Skip to content
    Sociology A-Level

    Verstehen

    What Verstehen means in Sociology A-Level, as defined for AQA.

    Definition of Verstehen

    Check what you remember

    Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Verstehen in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.

    Reference: AQA

    Empathetic understanding of subjective meanings, sought by interpretivists to uncover how individuals construct their social reality.
    AQA · Subject Content – A-level: Core themes - 4.1.3 Theory and Methods (study guide)

    Topics that use Verstehen

    Related terms

    Using Verstehen in the exam

    Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.

    Practise Sociology questions

    Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.

    Start free

    A week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge

    All Sociology A-Level terms