The American Sociological Association presents annual awards to recognize outstanding contributions to the profession of sociology. Winners are selected for their scholarly work, teaching, and practical applications, aiming to advance the discipline and public good. Recipients include researchers, educators, and practitioners who have ...
A study of over 90,000 US adolescents found that those who took public virginity pledges delayed having sex by an average of 18 months compared to non-pledgers. The pledge's effectiveness depends on the social environment and age group of the teens, with younger students in open schools experiencing a significant delay.
Local Gypsy minority self-governments drive local development efforts, improving socio-economic conditions and strengthening intracommunity social ties. These initiatives benefit not only Roma but also other ethnic Hungarians, fostering a more pluralistic, democratic society.
A new sociological sampling method, called respondent-driven sampling, can identify hard-to-reach groups. By analyzing the connections between individuals in a group, researchers can gather information and correct for biases to obtain a representative sample of populations such as drug users, jazz musicians, and other marginalized groups.
A new study by Cornell University found that dual-earner couples tend to follow traditional gender roles, with husbands' careers given priority. This 'neotraditional' model helps couples manage work and family demands, but may have negative consequences for women's job security and advancement opportunities.
The Congressional briefing explores how neighborhoods affect health risks, school achievement in children, and discrimination's impact on quality of life. Three experts share research findings about the importance of understanding and addressing neighborhood conditions.
Children of divorced parents are more likely to drop out of middle or high school due to economic hardships, not family disruption. The resulting financial stress raises the odds of offspring dropping out to supplement the family income.
A new study by Penn State and University of Nebraska researchers found that men who are moderately aggressive have stronger immune systems. The study analyzed data from 4,415 men aged 30-48 years and found that those with higher levels of aggression had higher concentrations of specific white blood cells, which could help them better f...
Research by Penn State and University of Nebraska found that moderate aggression is associated with a stronger immune system, particularly among CD4 cells. Men who reported engaging in occasional fights or aggressive acts had higher levels of lymphocytes, indicating a more rapid and intense response to pathogens.
A new $100,000 prize has been established at UC San Diego to honor human cognition pioneer David Rumelhart. The prize will recognize significant contributions in the field of human cognition and be awarded biennially.
A Penn State researcher finds that churches in lower-income areas offer fewer opportunities for learning civic skills, despite their importance. Church members from upper-class congregations are more likely to develop these skills, but they are less common among lower-class individuals.
A study of 75 countries reveals that social, economic and political factors are crucial for Internet development, including literacy, education, political freedom and service-based economies. Countries with the greatest Internet development have high rates of these factors, making them poised to cross the digital divide.
A study by Penn State researcher Dr. Mark D. Hayward found that people with childhood illness are more likely to develop cancer, lung disease, and arthritis in adulthood, regardless of their socioeconomic status. Investing in children's health could lead to significant benefits for adult healthcare.
Experts discuss policies related to aging well-being, citing key indicators of well-being report. The report highlights the growing older population's special needs, requiring initiatives based on sound data.
A new study by Valerie Hans reveals that potential jurors are skeptical of people who file whiplash lawsuits, leading to doubts about the legitimacy of claims. The research found that 92% of respondents believed frivolous lawsuits are common, resulting in lower settlements and more jury trials.
Researchers found that Asian immigrants working in ethnic-oriented businesses tend to have lower educational levels and poorer English skills. This can lead to social isolation, potentially hindering their long-term economic prospects.
A recent University of Toronto study found that new immigrants to Canada are significantly worse off financially than earlier generations of newcomers. The study attributes this trend to the rising level of education in native-born Canadians, making it difficult for new immigrants to compete for jobs. As a result, the income gap betwee...
A recent study found that children of divorce are more likely to develop a lingering mistrust of their fathers, regardless of the child's age at which it occurs. However, maintaining good relationships with both parents after divorce can mitigate this effect and promote trust in later life.
Men who live with their biological children are more involved in community organizations and connected to family members through phone calls and visits. They also take the good provider role seriously and invest more hours in work and career than non-fathers and fathers of adult children.
Researchers found that local communication, such as talking to neighbors, is crucial for a sense of community. The study also highlights the importance of strategic community organizations and media in building a stronger sense of belonging.
A recent study published in the Journal of Health and Social Behavior found that caring for an ill or disabled family member can increase emotional distress and accumulate over time. Women who care for their loved ones experience higher levels of distress, particularly those who provide long-term care.
This special issue of the American Sociological Review explores broad social trends over the past century, discussing topics such as modernization, globalization, industrialization, and secularization. The article also delves into the sociology of the Black working class and the impact of Western society on religion.
Research in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health found that divorced and separated men are more than twice as likely to commit suicide as married or partnered men. The study analyzed data from a long-term US research project, which included around 472,000 men and women.
Researchers at Ohio State University found a strong correlation between high credit card debt and physical impairment. People experiencing stress over debt reported worse health outcomes than those with lower debt levels. The study suggests that high credit card debt can have a detrimental impact on overall well-being.
Leading American sociologists offer practical solutions to pressing social problems like genocide, homelessness, and poverty. They suggest changes to cherished institutions and grade their performance based on solid research.
Researchers found that intelligent adolescents tend to postpone any kind of lesser sexual activity, as well as first sex, compared to their less intelligent peers. The association between intelligence and refraining from sexual intercourse was stronger for girls than boys, and age-dependent.
American students struggle with science texts due to oversimplification, despite being unprepared for complex language and concepts. A proposed experiment aims to improve student preparation by introducing more challenging books, potentially leading to better SAT scores.
A study by University of Chicago researchers found that doctors predict their terminally ill patients will live 5.3 times longer than they actually do, leading to unsatisfactory end-of-life care. The study suggests that some improvements may be made by having disinterested doctors provide predictive second opinions.
A new study by Gillian Stevens reveals that sociological opportunities and maturational constraints tied to age at onset of language learning play a crucial role in shaping the English proficiency levels of foreign-born residents in the United States. The research found that immigrants with native-born spouses report higher levels of p...
A new study from the University of California, San Francisco found that certain types of managed care plans do not offer greater access to preventive medical services compared to non-managed care plans. Traditional group/staff managed care plans still provide more preventive services than non-managed care in most cases.
Research at Ohio State University found that Americans' trust in individuals has declined by about 10% between 1975 and 1994, with a decline of half a percent per year. Despite this, trust in institutions such as government, religion, and education remained stable, and people maintained their involvement in clubs and organizations.
A study by Cornell sociologists finds that dual-earner couples are scaling back work to care for families and have more time for themselves. Women are more likely to take on these roles, leading to a 'neotraditional' arrangement where the husband's career is the primary focus.
A new five-year research study will investigate the economic consequences of cancer survival on patients' work and health insurance. The study will follow a large sample of cancer survivors over time, comparing their experiences with those without cancer.
Adults without private health insurance are 35% more likely to die than those with insurance between 1986 and 1995. The study found income and education reduce mortality risk by purchasing health insurance and acquiring necessary knowledge, respectively.
Researchers explore how new technologies shape communication networks and change organizational performance in 21st century organizations, with a focus on global network organizations. The project aims to produce the first comprehensive test to explain and predict the evolution of knowledge networks.
A study by University of Michigan researchers found that living in segregated cities with high levels of poverty is associated with higher mortality rates, particularly for cancer. The analysis revealed a strong correlation between segregation and increased susceptibility to illness and death among both black and white populations.
A nationwide study suggests that American adults generally experience fewer economic difficulties as they get older. The study found that 16% of adults under 40 reported frequent bill payments issues, compared to 6% of those 60 and over. Economic hardships peak in the 30s, then decline with age.
A new study found that Americans overestimate their lifespan by about a year compared to official statistics. Blacks and men are the most optimistic about their lifespans, while white females predict they will live less than expected.
A Penn State researcher found that nearly three-fourths of women addicted to crack cocaine engage in prostitution to support their habit, highlighting the need for comprehensive support services. The study suggests that programs should offer housing, education, and job training to help these women escape poverty and addiction
The conference will focus on ibogaine's mechanism of action and clinical, cultural, and political issues surrounding its use. Leading experts in neuroscience, ethnography, and sociology will present on the compound's effects and potential applications.
A new study reveals that prenatal exposure to higher levels of testosterone in pregnant smokers may predispose their daughters to develop a smoking habit as they age. Researchers analyzed data from over 240 pairs of mothers and daughters, finding no correlation between prenatal nicotine levels and later smoking behavior.
A study at Ohio State University found that parents continue to have a significant influence on their adolescents' behavior throughout the teen years. The research tracked 1,725 children for five years, revealing that the effect of friends and school grew during early adolescence, but parental influence remained steady.
A recent study found that U.S. math students in smaller classes (6-18 students) outperform those in larger classes, but the effect size is marginal and unclear. This contradicts findings in other countries where class size has no impact on math scores.
Long-term societal changes, particularly the aging baby boomer generation, contributed to a significant decline in serious crimes during the Clinton presidency. The strong economy and increased community-based crime prevention initiatives also played a crucial role in reducing crime rates.
A decline in burglary rates since 1980 is attributed to a shift towards drug trafficking and various forms of non-index crimes. Researchers suggest that the abundance of stolen goods has reduced demand, making burglary less lucrative, while improvements in security measures have also deterred potential burglars.
A Cornell University study found that senior volunteers enjoy significantly higher levels of psychological and physical well-being than non-volunteers. The research suggests that volunteering provides retirees with social connections, routines, and a sense of purpose, leading to improved overall well-being.
Research by Dr. Daniel B. Lee finds that elite colleges transmit cultural advantages from one generation to the next, including social skills and valuable networks. These advantages can lead to increased chances of joining the highest social stratum after graduation.
Research reveals psychological uncertainty about pregnancy is a major barrier, rather than immigrant status, for Puerto Rican women seeking adequate prenatal care. Despite being U.S. citizens, some women report inadequate care due to unwanted pregnancies or lack of awareness.
Sociologists analyzed daily rituals and activities to understand the mechanisms of biculturalism in Chinese Americans. They found that both older and newer generations retain their cultural heritage through practices like family gatherings, language classes, and cultural events.
Dr. Carol Ford will conduct research to understand motivations for testing and seeking treatment for STDs, aiming to increase effectiveness of screening programs and reduce preventable illnesses. She'll collaborate with the Add Health project and train healthcare professionals to provide high-quality care to adolescents.
A new Ohio University study found that 10% of college students have sold their blood plasma for payments, often using the funds for nonessential goods. The study revealed that paid student donors come from higher-income families and are more likely to engage in unhealthy lifestyle practices.
A new study by Penn State researchers improves the regional climate assessment of the Mid-Atlantic Region. The research involved gathering input from over 95 stakeholders representing industry, environmental groups, government, and research organizations. Key findings highlight the importance of human health in addressing global change...
A study found that middle-aged men with higher testosterone levels are less likely to experience high blood pressure, heart attacks, and obesity. However, they are more likely to engage in unhealthy behaviors such as smoking and excessive drinking.
Regular churchgoers live longer than those who seldom or never attend worship services. They can look forward to about seven more years of life beyond age 20. The research also revealed that women and blacks can enjoy especially longer lives if they are religiously active.
A study of 200 white and black girls aged 13-14 found that more body fat was associated with lower dating success, while below-average fat was linked to higher rates of dating. The research suggests that adolescent girls' weight concerns influence their attitudes towards physical attractiveness.
Researchers found that WIC participants had lower infant death rates related to pregnancy and delivery. Additionally, Medicaid participation reduced the risk of infant mortality due to external causes like infectious diseases and accidents. The study also highlighted disparities in access to healthcare among low-income families.
A Purdue University study found that patients' reports of their own health were more valid than doctors' predictions, especially for African-American patients. The discrepancy may be due to varying levels of information provided by patients, with doctors relying heavily on patient input to make informed decisions.
A study by Mark R. Rank and Thomas A. Hirschl found that nearly two-thirds of all Americans will experience poverty for at least one year during their lifetime, with the likelihood increasing with age.
Researchers found that students taking a new type of civics education class were less likely to take extreme positions against democracy and the free market, but also showed lower commitment to these values. This unexpected outcome suggests that such programs may have unintended effects on students' attitudes towards democracy.
Researchers found that court reports prepared by probation officers consistently depict black and white juvenile offenders differently, resulting in tougher sentencing recommendations for blacks. The study highlights the role of unconscious racial stereotyping in the justice system.