Paper 2: Topics in sociology

Read Item A (item written for this paper). Item A: Since the 1970s there has been a large increase in cohabitation, divorce and lone-parent families, and people are marrying later or not at all. Some sociologists see these changes as evidence of greater choice; others see them as signs of family decline. Applying material from Item A, analyse two reasons for the increase in family diversity.

Outline and explain two ways in which childhood may be said to be socially constructed.

Read Item B (item written for this paper). Item B: Some sociologists claim that relationships between couples have become more equal, as more women work and men take on more domestic tasks. Others argue that women still carry a 'dual burden' of paid work and housework, as well as most of the emotional work in families. Applying material from Item B and your knowledge, evaluate the view that couple relationships are now equal.

Outline and explain two reasons for the decline in church attendance in Britain.

Read Item C (item written for this paper). Item C: Since the 1960s many new religious movements have appeared, ranging from world-rejecting sects to world-affirming groups offering spiritual techniques for success. Applying material from Item C, analyse two reasons for the growth of new religious movements.

Read Item D (item written for this paper). Item D: Functionalists see religion as a source of social solidarity and shared values. Marxists and feminists argue that religion maintains inequality, while others argue that religion can be a force for social change. Applying material from Item D and your knowledge, evaluate the view that religion acts as a conservative force in society.