Part 1
Several articles in the textbook have given me a new perspective on life. The acquired can be used not only in my personal life but also when interacting with others. The first theoretical lens that I have significant relevance in is known as the avoidance process. The sociological model asks individuals to stay away from sources of threat. As illustrated by the author, "The surest way for a person to prevent threats to his face is to avoid contacts in which these threats are likely to occur" (Spencer & Cahill, 2013 p.257). The theory emphasizes the value of withdrawal, especially when the prospects of risks are high. For instance, this theoretical lens can assist me in choosing my peers and stepping away from groups that are likely to transition into gang-related activities. The second critical perspective provided in the text regards the theory of risk-taking. Sociological studies have found out that many individuals are more likely to take risks to adhere to the social definitions of their gender.
The issue is primarily seen in males. As explained by the author, “Men take dangerous risks in order to acquire masculine recognition” (Spencer & Cahill, 2013, p.287). The society in which we live in is severely gendered. People are judged based on the social constructions of gender. As an individual, it is vital to stay away from these stereotypes in a bid to avoid the dangerous risk. The theory helps me to understand that I do not have to engage in risky behavior to prove my masculinity or femininity. For instance, I should not retaliate during a fight to prove my masculinity. Thirdly, the text comes up with the theory of personal front and how it determines interaction in public places. The sociological definition of personal front compares it to personal appearance, including a person's make-up, clothing, and hairdo, among others. Individuals that repair their personal affront in public might find it difficult to interact due to lowered confidence. AS such, this is a lesson that personal grooming should always occur in my private sphere.
Delegate your assignment to our experts and they will do the rest.
Part 2
My sociological analysis has focused on three fundamental items, including the avoidance process, risk theory, and the personal front perspective. All these points of view aim at influencing the behavior of a person and making them suitable for social interactions. Despite my understanding of these issues, several fundamental questions come to mind. As regards the avoidance process, social scientists need to define what a threat is and further provide individuals with the criteria for identifying risky engagements. From a personal point of view, I would want to know the markers of threats that can help me to avoid threats and risky situations in society. The second perspective talks about risk-taking and how persons can engage in risky behavior to prove their masculinity. For most parts of the theory, significant emphasis has been placed on masculinity. However, little emphasis has been placed on the perspective of females.
How does the risk theory apply in the case of females? Do women also engage in risky behavior to prove their femininity? Such answers could help in providing gendered differences when assessing risky behavior in society. The third theoretical perspective focused on the personal front. The theory primarily addresses the importance of grooming and appearance in public spaces. In essence, the article argues that creating a personal front in public spaces can negatively affect a person's level of interaction. I believe that the author should explain the mental processes involved in this process. Keen emphasis should be placed on assessing how human psychology changes when someone adjusts their appearance in public.
References
Spencer, E., & Cahill, S. (2013). Inside Social Life: Readings in Sociological Psychology and Microsociology. Oxford University Press.
