Theory teaches us why people might do the things they do and behave the way they behave. In practice, professionals use theory to make sense of people’s behaviors and find ways to treat or improve their lives.
Select 1 of the television sitcom clips below. As you watch the clip(s), think about how the decisions made and the behaviors displayed are influenced by any of the following theories:
- Rational choice theory
- Labeling theory
- Conflict theory
Fresh off the Boat
Fresh Off The Boat – Home Sweet Home School clip6 – YouTube
Fresh Off The Boat – Home Sweet Home School clip7 – YouTube
Good Times
Good Times | Florida Kicks J.J. Out | The Norman Lear Effect – YouTube
Family Ties
Family Ties – Alex on Speed – YouTube
Family Ties – The Pills – YouTube
After watching the clips, address the following using the provided template:
- Which theory (i.e., rational choice, labeling, or conflict) do you believe had the biggest impact on the youth’s behavior and their choices? Define why you believe this theory made the biggest impact.
- How do you believe the youth’s behavior would be different today? Why do you think this?
- Define what social capital is and how it can be enhanced or lost.
- How do you believe your chosen youth’s behaviors would have been different if they had strong social capital?
