Sociology Lecture: Role Strain and Role Conflict

Role Strain

Definition: Tension between roles in one status
Characteristics:
- Individual is pulled in many directions by various responsibilities of a single status.
Example:
- A student needs to:
  - Write two papers
  - Finish five reading assignments for separate classes
  - Give a speech
  - Study for a midterm exam
  - Complete two lab reports
- All these tasks create strain as they fall under the same status: being a student.

Definition: Conflict between roles of two or more social statuses
Characteristics:
- Different statuses compete for an individual’s time and energy.
Examples:
1. A man with multiple statuses:
  - Student
  - Husband
  - Friend
  - Worker
  - Parent
- Scenario 1:
  - Gets a call for a monthly get-together with friends.
  - Receives a reminder about his anniversary.
  - Decision: Status as a husband takes precedence over status as a friend.
- Scenario 2:
  - Has a paper due for school.
  - Finds out his son is injured and may need hospital care.
  - Decision: Status as a parent takes precedence over status as a student.
- Scenario 3:
  - Has a big meeting on Monday.
  - Wife wants him to clean the garage.
  - Decision: Status as a worker takes precedence over status as a husband.