Factors affecting choice of topic

Question 1

Personal Reasons

Answer 1

Sometimes sociologists will only study what they are interested and may pick a subject because it could lead to a qualification or job opportunity. Eg someone from an ethnic group studying discrimination of their ethnic group

Question 2

Availability of data

Answer 2

Often sociologists are limited to studying areas where data exists for them to study. eg no data on child abuse in middle ages so difficult to study

Question 3

Funding/Policy issues

Answer 3

Some topics are more expensive than others so limited funds may mean you struggle as research is government funded

Question 4

Interests of Society

Answer 4

During certain times, society is interested in particular topics or the need to address certain issues which could lead to research opportunities for sociologists to take advantage of.

Question 5

Theoretical Perspective of the researcher

Answer 5

Feminists will often choose to study women and Marxists class.