The sociological approach

The sociological approach is the foundation of GCSE Sociology. It introduces students to the unique way sociologists study human behaviour, focusing on patterns, structures, and social forces rather than individual psychology. This topic covers key perspectives like functionalism, Marxism, feminism, and interactionism, each offering different explanations for how society works. Understanding these approaches is crucial because they shape how sociologists interpret everything from education to crime.

Why does this matter? Sociology helps you question 'common sense' assumptions. For example, why do some groups achieve more in school? Sociologists don't just say 'they work harder' – they look at class, gender, and ethnicity. The sociological approach gives you the tools to analyse society critically. In the AQA GCSE exam, you'll need to apply these perspectives to real-world issues, so mastering this topic is essential for high marks.

This topic fits into the wider subject as the 'lens' through which all other topics are viewed. Whether you're studying families, education, or crime, you'll constantly refer back to sociological theories. It also links to research methods, as different approaches favour different methods (e.g., positivists prefer surveys, interpretivists prefer interviews). By the end, you should be able to compare and contrast perspectives and evaluate their strengths and weaknesses.