Answer: Studying the African American Elite Sociologist Lois Benjamin used survey research method to investigate the effects of racism on talented African American men and women. A survey is a research method in which subjects respond to a series of statements or questions in a questionnaire or an interview. Survey research is usually descriptive rather than explanatory. Surveys are directed at populations, the people who are the focus of research. Random sampling is commonly used to be sure that the sample is actually representative. Surveys may involve questionnaires, a series of written questions a researcher presents to subjects. Questionnaires may be closed-ended or open-ended. Most surveys are self-administered and must be carefully pretested. Benjamin was surprised of how many subjects responded to her request for an interview. Benjamin concluded that despite the improving social standing of African Americans, black people in the United States still suffer the effects of racial hostility. 2. What is the role of the family, school, peer group and media on development? Which is most important? Why?
Answer: The family is the most integral part of every individual's upbringing, thus one of the most important agencies of socialization. The family has the power to influence an individual's self-concepts, emotions, attitudes, and behaviors. The school enlarges children’s social world to include people with backgrounds different from their own. Peer groups are made up of people with similar ages and statuses in society. This group also sets the norms and values by which the individual must abide. Children learn how to form relationships on their own among their peers, and it also lets children escape the direct supervision of peers so they are able to be comfortable and mingle on their own. The mass media, which serve as