To further build our understanding of the relationship between the self, interaction, and groups, we are going to watch and assess the film Mean Girls. As you are watching, consider the following questions and select FIVE to answer with the help of Ch. 4 and Ch. 5.
1.) Describe how the social structure and social institutions seen in the film produced in and out groups, reference groups and then discuss the implications for the characters in such groups. (What is their experience as part of the in / out group? What role do the reference groups play in their lives? How can we apply these concepts to our own lives)
2.) Choose one of the three theoretical perspectives we have discussed in class (functionalism, conflict theory, symbolic interactionism) and analyze the social structure in the film. For example, if you are doing a conflict analysis, identify elements of the film that are about power and domination, etc.
3.) Using terms and concepts from Ch. 4 and 5, explain the behaviors of two characters and sociologically why things happen the way they do.
4.) How is Cady resocialized to her new school? How do we see Cady experience the various stages of conformity? How does she experience anomie? What role does each agent of socialization play in her experience?
5.) What kind of power does Regina George wield? What kind of authority figure is she? What role does status play in the lives of the teens at this school? Why does Regina’s acknowledgement matter to so many of them?
6.) List eight norms that are implied and 8 norms that are explicitly stated in the film. Are these prescriptions or proscriptions? Explain the Thomas Theorem using what we see happening.
7.) How do we see Groupthink present in The Plastics?
8.) How does Cady experience role conflict? As a friend? As a student? As a family member? 10 points possible.
