Interviews

• Why do sociologists use interviews?

  To gain insight into thoughts and attitudes
• What are interviews in sociological research?

  Conversations between researcher and respondent
• What types of questions can be asked in interviews?

  Open or closed questions
• How do skilled researchers differ in their approach to interviews?

  They may not use a specific interview schedule
• What are the different types of interviews used in sociology?

  • Structured interviews: standardized questions, quantitative data
  • Semi-structured interviews: list of questions with follow-ups
  • Unstructured interviews: guided conversation, qualitative data
  • Group interviews: focus groups, multiple respondents
• What type of interviews do positivists prefer?

  Structured interviews with standardized questions
• What is a characteristic of semi-structured interviews?

  They allow follow-up questions based on responses
• What do unstructured interviews focus on?

  Guided conversation and deeper meanings
• What is a focus group in research?

  A group interview with multiple respondents
• Why are interviews considered useful for sociologists?

  They have a higher response rate than questionnaires
• What advantage do interviews have over questionnaires?

  They provide valuable insights into behaviors
• How can interviews provide both quantitative and qualitative data?

  Depending on the structure of the questions
• What is a benefit of having a researcher present during interviews?

  Questions can be clarified and rapport developed
• Why can structured interviews be more reliable?

  Standardized questions can be replicated
• What is a practical issue with conducting interviews?

  They can be expensive and time-consuming
• What is a challenge related to the personal skills of the researcher?

  Empathy levels vary among researchers
• How can interviews address socially sensitive topics?

  By developing rapport and showing empathy
• What ethical concern arises in group interviews?

  Revealing information may lead to ridicule
• How can anonymity help in interviews?

  It protects respondents from potential harm
• What ethical dilemma might researchers face during interviews?

  Disclosure of illegal or immoral activities
• What is a validity issue with interviews?

  Respondents may give socially desirable answers
• How can the interviewer's theoretical position affect responses?

  It may influence respondents to exaggerate experiences
• Why might unstructured interviews lack reliability?

  Questions and responses are unique and varied
• What do positivists prefer in interviews?

  Standardized nature and reliability of structured interviews
• What do interpretivists value in interviews?

  Validity and insight into lives through unstructured interviews
• Who used unstructured interviews with high school teachers?

  Becker
• What was Carlin's research focus?

  Gender and criminality
• What did Willis research using unstructured and group interviews?

  Anti-school subcultures
• What are some examples of interviews in sociology?

  • Becker: unstructured interviews with teachers
  • Carlin: unstructured interviews on gender and criminality
  • Willis: unstructured and group interviews on anti-school subcultures
• What is the conclusion of the sociology topic video?

  It summarizes research methods focusing on interviews