Chapter 4, Section 1 Reading Guide
Building Blocks of Social Structure
1). What is social structure and why is it important to sociologist?
2). What are the 3 types of statuses? Briefly describe each status.
3). Complete the following diagram. The center is your master status with your other statuses branching
off.
4). What are roles? What are reciprocal roles? List 5 examples of reciprocal roles and circle the ones
that apply to you.
5). What is the difference between role expectations and role performance? Give 2-3 examples how
role performances the differ from their expectations.
6). What is a role set? What is the role set that is attached to your master status from #3?
7). Describe role conflict and role strain. What is the difference between the two?
8). What is a social institution? What is their purpose? What are some of the main institutions that
affect you?