explanations for ethnic differences in religiosity

Question 1

solidarity

Answer 1

higher levels of religiosity maintain tradition and community solidarity. provides a social life and protects and promotes cultural values and traditions. also helps to cope with worries from hostility and discrimination.

Question 2

social deprivation and marginality

Answer 2

em’s likely to be dissatisfied with status in society and may turn to religion as a secure and solid source of identity which they find lacking in mainstream society e.g many older asian women feel marginalised as they have a poor grasp of english

Question 3

religious socialisation

Answer 3

family structures are much tighter knit in asian communities, with strong extended families which may result in pressure to conform to religious values and behaviour

Question 4

cultural transition

Answer 4

religion can be a means of easing the transition to a new culture by providing support and a sense of community for minority groups in new environments

Question 5

cultural defence

Answer 5

religion offers support and a sense of cultural identity in an uncertain and hostile environment and can be used as a means of preserving one’s culture