Efficiently studying rare events: case-control methods for sociologists
Article Abstract:
Case-control designs use samples stratified disproportionately on a binary dependent variable. This design provides high logistical efficiency in the study of rare events such as divorce, joining a religious cult or committing a crime. Epidemiologic literature was used to explain the underlying logic of case-control design and to discuss how to conduct case-control sampling. Case-control design provides economy of effort without loss of validity, without illogical reasoning from effect to cause and without resorting to highly specialized methods of analysis.
Publication Name: Sociological Perspectives
Subject: Sociology and social work
ISSN: 0731-1214
Year: 1997
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1995 presidential address: what sociologists are learning about the next generation of students: are we prepared to teach in the 21st century?
Article Abstract:
A major crisis in higher education is forecasted at the start of the 21st century. Most college freshmen will be ill-equipped for the demands of university-level subjects. Smelser's value-added theory of collective behavior can be utilized as a framework for analyzing this problem. Close examination of the learning conditions of the young and school-age children and of the school problems of teenagers indicate that the impending educational crisis is near.
Publication Name: Sociological Perspectives
Subject: Sociology and social work
ISSN: 0731-1214
Year: 1996
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Competition and commitment in voluntary memberships: the paradox of persistence and participation
Article Abstract:
A study was conducted on commitment and competition in voluntary memberships with respect to persistence and participation. The commitment thesis implies that the more the member participates, the longer the duration of membership. The competition thesis, on the other hand, implies that the more the member participates, the shorter the average duration of membership. The results indicate strong and consistent support for the competition thesis.
Publication Name: Sociological Perspectives
Subject: Sociology and social work
ISSN: 0731-1214
Year: 1997
User Contributions:
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