Topic Summaries

Sociology and social policy

A-Level > Sociology > AQA > A Level Sociology Topic Summaries > Sociological perspectives and debates in sociology > Sociology and social policy
Previous Module
Next Module

Exam overview
  • Debates about the relationship between research and policymaking.
    • Functionalism: research can inform policies that maintain social order/stability.
      • May reinforce existing inequalities.
    • New Right – Realism: uses crime statistics to promote policies focused on deterrence and zero tolerance.
      • Can target marginalised groups disproportionately.
    • Feminism: sees some policies as instruments of patriarchal control but supports reforms that improve gender equality.
      • Policy impact is often limited by wider structural factors.

Unlock Sociology and social policy

Subscribe to SnapRevise+ to get immediate access to the rest of this resource.

Premium accounts get immediate access to this resource.

Previous Module
Next Module