Student Web Activites

Chapter 1: An Invitation to Sociology

"Social Relationships"

Introduction
In this chapter you learned about what sociology is and how it is different from the other social sciences. You also read about the contributions of the major pioneers in the field of sociology as well as the development of sociology in the United States . One thing that captures the attention of sociologists is social structure—the patterned interaction of people in social relationships. In particular, they study how people interact in group situations. As children enteradolescence, their groups of friends–their peers–play an increasingly important role in their lives. Our peer groups exert considerable influence on our behavior—and that influence can be both positive and negative.

Web sites

Adolescence: Change and Continuity
Cliques and crowds are two common peer groups acknowledged in an adolescent environment. Read through this Web site to take a closer look at the role of peer groups in your age group.

Peer Groups
Visit this Kids' Health Web site to discover the different between positive and negative peer pressure.

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Activity
Describe a clique and a crowd that you observe at your school. How do these affect you and your own peer group? Write a one-page essay discussing your experiences.