Free THEA Reading Questions and Answers

Question 1

Which of the following best captures the selection's core point?

Accepted Answer

Both the social group theory and the scientific research methods developed by Durkheim have contributed much to the field of sociology.

Answer

The selection's major thesis is that Emile Durkheim made a substantial contribution to the growth of sociology through his emphasis on the study of social groups rather than individuals and his application of exacting research techniques. The theories and research results of Durkheim laid the groundwork for the discipline of sociology by demonstrating the impact of social influences on individual conduct. His work has influenced sociologists all across the world and continues to do so.

Question 2

The primary goal of the writer in creating this choice is to

Accepted Answer

describe the ways in which Durkheim's work has influenced sociology

Answer

The primary goal of this selection by the author is to discuss the manner in which Emile Durkheim's work has influenced sociology. The choice emphasizes Durkheim's focus on studying human groups rather than individuals, his comparison of social groups to bronze, and his investigation of social elements and their effects on individual behavior. The author also highlights Durkheim's meticulous research techniques and how they set a standard for sociologists all across the world. The selection, seen as a whole, intends to highlight Durkheim's important contributions and enduring influence on the growth of sociology as a subject.

Question 3

What distinctions between sociologists and psychologists may be drawn from the selection?

Accepted Answer

Psychologists focus more on individuals than do sociologists.

Answer

The selection indicates that the focus of sociologists and psychologists is different. Sociologists concentrate on societal patterns and influences that have an impact on entire groups or categories of people, whereas psychologists typically focus more on the individual. Sociologists are more inclined to look at cultural attitudes and broader socioeconomic variables that lead to such experiences among retired people in society, whereas psychologists may offer treatment to people facing specific concerns, such as feelings of worthlessness after retiring.

Question 4

Durkheim compared social groups to bronze in order to demonstrate:

Accepted Answer

a social group has characteristics that differ from those of its individual members.

Answer

According to the selection, Durkheim compared the characteristics of a social group to those of bronze, a special metal created by melting and combining tin, copper, and lead. The purpose of Durkheim's example was to show how a social group has characteristics that are different from those of its individual members. The traits and actions of a social group as a whole cannot be determined just by looking at the traits of its individual members, just as bronze is harder than any of its component metals. According to Durkheim, joining a group puts a lot of pressure on members to adopt the normative beliefs, emotions, and behaviors of the group. This contrast serves to highlight the notion that knowing social groupings' distinctive dynamics and influences—as opposed to just their individual characteristics—is essential for researching them.

Question 5

Which of the following statements most accurately describes the term "model" as it is used in the selection's final paragraph?

Accepted Answer

a plan to be imitated

Answer

The word "model" refers to a plan or strategy that acts as an example to be mimicked or followed in the last paragraph of the selection. It means that Durkheim's particular method of developing and testing social theory served as a model or template for the work of later sociologists. Durkheim was a significant person whose work was imitated and copied by other academics in the area because of his rigorous research techniques and comprehensive theoretical framework, which served as a guide for doing sociological research and producing sociological theories.

THEA Test Practice Test

THEA Test Practice Test

Free THEA Reading Questions and Answers