topics for sociology literature review

Exploring Fascinating Sociology Research Topics: A Comprehensive Guide

Are you a student with a keen interest in understanding society and its complex dynamics? Look no further than sociology research!

Sociology offers a captivating exploration of human social behavior, relationships, and institutions.

In this blog post, we will dive into the world of sociology research topics, guiding you through the elements of sociology research, where to find compelling topics, and providing a curated list of 40+ intriguing research ideas.

We will also highlight the significance of selecting the right topic and offer tips to ensure the success of your sociology research endeavors. So, let’s embark on this enlightening journey together!

What is Sociology?

Table of Contents

Sociology is the scientific study of society, human social interactions, and social institutions. It seeks to understand how individuals and groups shape and are shaped by social structures, norms, and values. By employing various research methods, sociologists examine topics such as social inequality, family dynamics, cultural practices, and political systems.

Elements of Sociology Research

To conduct effective sociology research, several key elements come into play:

a) Research Question

Formulating a clear and focused research question is essential. It serves as the foundation for your study and guides the entire research process.

b) Literature Review

A comprehensive literature review involves exploring scholarly work related to your research topic. This step helps you understand the current state of knowledge, identify research gaps, and refine your research question.

c) Research Design

Choosing the appropriate research design is crucial. Common methodologies in sociology research include surveys, interviews, observations, experiments, and content analysis. Each method has its strengths and limitations. Therefore, select the one that aligns best with your research goals.

d) Data Collection

Collecting reliable and valid data is vital for meaningful research. Depending on your research design, data collection methods can include surveys, interviews, focus groups, or analyzing existing datasets. Ensure ethical considerations are adhered to throughout the process.

e) Data Analysis

Once you have gathered your data, the next step is to analyze it. Statistical software, qualitative coding techniques, and thematic analysis can assist in uncovering patterns, themes, and relationships within the data.

f) Findings and Conclusions

Interpreting your research findings and drawing meaningful conclusions is the culmination of your efforts. This stage allows you to contribute to the existing body of sociological knowledge and generate new insights.

Where to Find Sociology Research Topics:

Finding the right research topic can be a stimulating yet challenging task. Here are some avenues to explore:

a) Academic Journals and Publications

Sociology journals such as the American Sociological Review, Social Forces, and Sociology Compass often publish cutting-edge research and can inspire ideas for your own work.

b) Research Databases

Online databases like JSTOR, Google Scholar, and Social Science Research Network (SSRN) provide access to a vast collection of academic articles, dissertations, and conference papers, allowing you to explore a wide range of topics.

c) Sociological Associations and Conferences

Engaging with professional sociological associations and attending conferences can expose you to the latest research trends and provide networking opportunities with scholars in the field.

d) Sociological Research Centers and Institutes

Many universities and research institutions have dedicated centers or institutes that focus on sociological research. Exploring their websites can lead to interesting topics and ongoing projects.

40+ Sociology Research Topics For Students In 2023

Here are 40+ sociology research topics for students in 2023:

1. Gender Inequality In The Workplace

Explore the causes, consequences, and potential solutions for gender disparities in employment.

2. The Influence Of Cultural Norms On Marriage And Family Dynamics

Examine how cultural norms shape marriage and family structures, roles, and expectations.

3. The Sociology Of Crime And Deviance

Investigate theories and patterns of criminal behavior and social responses to deviant actions.

4. Social Mobility And Class Dynamics

Analyze the factors that contribute to social mobility and class stratification in society.

5. Racism And Discrimination

Examine the various forms of racism and discrimination prevalent in society and their impacts on individuals and communities.

6. Social Movements And Activism

Explore the dynamics of social movements, their goals, strategies, and impact on social change.

7. Immigration and social integration

Investigate the experiences of immigrants in the process of social integration and the challenges they face.

8. Education And Social Inequality

Examine the relationship between education and social inequality, including access, quality, and outcomes.

9. Health Disparities And Social Determinants Of Health

Explore the social factors that influence health outcomes and contribute to health disparities.

10. Aging And Society

Investigate the social, cultural, and economic aspects of aging and its impact on individuals and communities.

11. Environmental Sociology

Analyze the social dimensions of environmental issues, such as climate change, pollution, and sustainability.

12. Media Representation And Stereotypes

Examine how media shapes perceptions, reinforces stereotypes, and influences social attitudes.

13. Youth Culture And Identity

Explore the formation of youth cultures, subcultures, and the construction of youth identities.

14. Social Networks And Social Capital

Investigate the role of social networks and social capital in individual well-being and social integration.

15. Religion And Society

Analyze the interactions between religion, culture, and social institutions, and their impacts on society.

16. Globalization and its effects

Examine the social, cultural, and economic consequences of globalization on individuals and societies.

17. Social Inequality And Access To Healthcare

Investigate the relationship between social inequality and access to healthcare services.

18. Political Sociology

Analyze the dynamics of power, governance, and political systems in society.

19. Urbanization And Urban Sociology

Explore the social, economic, and environmental impacts of urbanization on communities and individuals.

20. Socialization And Identity Formation

Investigate how individuals acquire social norms, values, and identities through socialization processes.

21. Mental Health And Society

Examine the social factors influencing mental health, stigma, and access to mental health services.

22. Family Structures And Dynamics

Analyze changing family structures, roles, and functions in contemporary society.

23. Social Support Systems And Well-Being

Investigate the role of social support networks in promoting individual well-being and resilience.

24. Technology And Society

Examine the social implications of technological advancements, such as artificial intelligence, automation, and privacy concerns.

25. Social Movements and LGBTQ+Rights

Explore the role of social movements in advancing LGBTQ+ rights and fostering inclusivity.

26. Poverty And Social Welfare

Analyze the causes and consequences of poverty and the effectiveness of social welfare programs.

27. Social Construction Of Gender

Investigate how society constructs and perpetuates gender roles, norms, and expectations.

28. Disability And Society

Examine the social barriers faced by individuals with disabilities and the efforts towards inclusion and accessibility.

29. Social Capital And Community Development

Explore the role of social capital in community development, collective action, and resilience.

30. Media Effects On Body Image And Self-Esteem

Investigate the influence of media portrayals of beauty standards on body image dissatisfaction and self-esteem issues.

31. Political Polarization And Social Divisions

Analyze the factors contributing to political polarization and its impact on social cohesion and divisions.

32. Social Movements And Environmental Activism

Explore the role of social movements in promoting environmental awareness and activism.

32. Youth Unemployment And Its Consequences

Investigate the causes and consequences of youth unemployment on individuals and society.

33. Social Media And Political Engagement

Examine the influence of social media on political participation, activism, and engagement.

34. Cultural Assimilation And Multiculturalism

Analyze the challenges and benefits of cultural assimilation and multiculturalism in diverse societies.

35. Social Entrepreneurship And Social Innovation

Explore the role of social entrepreneurship in addressing social issues and driving positive change.

36. Body Modification And Identity

Investigate the social and cultural aspects of body modification practices, such as tattoos, piercings, and cosmetic surgeries.

37. Socialization And Gender Roles

Examine how socialization processes contribute to the formation and perpetuation of gender roles and expectations.

38. Religion And Social Cohesion

Analyze the role of religion in fostering social cohesion, community building, and moral values.

39. Intersectionality and social justice

Explore the concept of intersectionality and its implications for understanding and addressing social inequalities.

40. Social Stigma And Marginalized Communities

Investigate the impact of social stigma on marginalized communities and strategies for combating stigma.

41. Technology Addiction And Its Social Consequences

Examine the societal implications of technology addiction, such as excessive internet use and smartphone dependency.

42. Global Migration And Refugee Crises

Analyze the social, economic, and political impacts of global migration and refugee crises.

43. Social Capital And Economic Development

Investigate the role of social capital in promoting economic development and reducing poverty.

44. Education And Social Mobility

Explore the relationship between education access, quality, and its impact on social mobility.

45. Social Inequalities In Healthcare Access

Analyze the social factors contributing to disparities in healthcare access and outcomes.

46. Socialization And Media Influence On Youth

Investigate how media influences the socialization process and impacts the behavior and attitudes of young people.

47. Social Entrepreneurship And Sustainable Development

Explore how social entrepreneurship contributes to sustainable development and social innovation.

48. Social Movements And Racial Justice

Analyze the role of social movements in addressing systemic racism, promoting racial justice, and equality.

Remember, these topics are just starting points, and you can further refine them based on your interests and research goals. Good luck with your sociology research!

Significance of Choosing the Right Sociology Research Topics

Here are some significance of choosing the right sociology research topics :

1. Relevance and Contribution

Choosing a relevant research topic allows you to address important social issues and contribute to the existing body of sociological knowledge. It enables you to explore topics that have practical implications and potential for societal impact.

2. Personal Interest and Motivation

When you select a sociology research topic that aligns with your personal interests and passions, you are more likely to stay motivated and engaged throughout the research process. Your enthusiasm for the topic will fuel your commitment and drive to produce high-quality research.

3. Academic and Professional Growth

Engaging in research on the right sociology topics provides opportunities for academic and professional growth. It allows you to deepen your understanding of sociological theories, research methods, and analytical skills, enhancing your expertise in the field.

4. Student Engagement and Learning

For students, choosing interesting and relevant sociology research topics enhances the learning experience. It encourages active engagement with the subject matter, fosters critical thinking, and promotes a deeper understanding of social dynamics and complexities.

5. Contribution to Societal Debates

Sociology research has the potential to inform and shape public discourse on important social issues. By selecting the right topics, you can shed light on social inequalities, challenge dominant narratives, and contribute to informed discussions on topics such as racism, gender inequality, poverty, and more.

6. Practical Applications

Research topics that address practical societal challenges offer opportunities for real-world applications. The insights gained from your research can be used to develop interventions, policies, and programs aimed at addressing social issues and promoting positive social change.

7. Career Opportunities

Choosing the right sociology research topics can open doors to various career opportunities. Employers in fields such as social research, policy analysis, advocacy, and social services value individuals with a strong research background and expertise in relevant sociological issues.

8. Networking and Collaboration

Engaging in research on relevant sociology topics allows you to connect with other researchers, scholars, and professionals in the field. This networking can lead to collaborations, knowledge sharing, and exposure to different perspectives and research approaches.

9. Personal Growth and Empathy

Sociology research often involves studying and understanding diverse social groups and their experiences. This process fosters empathy, cultural sensitivity, and a broader worldview, contributing to personal growth and a deeper understanding of human societies.

10. Potential for Publication and Recognition

Selecting the right sociology research topics increases the likelihood of producing impactful and publishable research. It enhances your chances of disseminating your work through academic journals, conferences, and other platforms, gaining recognition within the scholarly community.

Statistics Research Topics
Sociology Project Topics

Tips to Making Your Sociology Research Successful

When embarking on a sociology research journey, there are several tips to ensure your research is successful. Here are some key tips to consider:

1. Choose a Clear and Focused Research Question

Start by formulating a clear and focused research question. A well-defined research question will guide your entire research process and provide a framework for your study.

2.Conduct a Comprehensive Literature Review

Before diving into your research, conduct a thorough literature review. Familiarize yourself with existing scholarly work on the topic to understand the current state of knowledge, identify research gaps, and build upon previous research.

3. Select Appropriate Research Methods

Choose the research methods that align with your research question and objectives. Consider qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods approaches based on the nature of your research topic and the data you need to collect.

4. Collect Reliable and Valid Data

Ensure your data collection methods are robust and reliable. Depending on your research design, employ techniques such as surveys, interviews, observations, or content analysis. Take measures to ensure the validity and reliability of your data.

5. Analyze Data Effectively

Once you have collected your data, analyze it using appropriate analytical techniques. Depending on your research methods, use statistical analysis software, qualitative coding, or thematic analysis to derive meaningful insights from your data.

6. Remain Ethical

Adhere to ethical guidelines throughout your research process. Obtain informed consent from participants, maintain confidentiality, and ensure the privacy and anonymity of individuals involved. Respect ethical considerations when working with sensitive topics or vulnerable populations.

7. Organize and Manage Your Research

Establish a system to organize and manage your research materials effectively. Keep track of references, data, and research notes to facilitate easy retrieval and citation.

8. Seek Guidance and Feedback

Seek guidance from your professors, mentors, or peers who have expertise in sociology or your specific research area. They can provide valuable insights, offer feedback on your work, and help you refine your research.

9. Stay Organized and Manage Time Wisely

Develop a research plan and timeline to ensure you allocate sufficient time for each research phase. Break your research project into smaller, manageable tasks, set deadlines, and stay organized to avoid unnecessary stress and last-minute rushes.

10. Revise, Edit, and Proofread

Take the time to revise, edit, and proofread your research work thoroughly. Pay attention to clarity, coherence, and logical flow in your writing. Ensure proper formatting, citation, and adherence to any specific guidelines or requirements.

11. Embrace Collaboration and Networking

Engage in discussions and collaborations with fellow researchers, scholars, and professionals in the field. Attend conferences, workshops, and seminars to share your research, gain feedback, and expand your network.

12. Stay Updated with Current Research

Continuously update your knowledge by reading current research in sociology. Stay informed about the latest theories, methodologies, and debates within the field. This will help you position your research within the broader context of sociological scholarship.

13. Communicate Your Research Findings Effectively

Lastly, communicate your research findings effectively through well-written research papers , presentations, or other appropriate mediums. Tailor your communication to your target audience, whether it be fellow researchers, policymakers, or the general public.

By following these tips, you can enhance the success of your sociology research, contribute to the field, and make a meaningful impact with your findings. Good luck with your research endeavors!

Conclusion

In conclusion, conducting successful sociology research requires careful planning, meticulous execution, and a passion for understanding and addressing social issues. By following the tips outlined above, you can maximize the impact and quality of your research.

A well-defined research question sets the direction for your research journey, guiding your efforts and ensuring a focused approach.

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Literature Reviews
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Articles & Databases
Methods/Stats/Datasets
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Majors, Minors, and Careers in Sociology

What is a Literature Review?

The scholarly conversation.

A literature review provides an overview of previous research on a topic that critically evaluates, classifies, and compares what has already been published on a particular topic. It allows the author to synthesize and place into context the research and scholarly literature relevant to the topic. It helps map the different approaches to a given question and reveals patterns. It forms the foundation for the author’s subsequent research and justifies the significance of the new investigation.

A literature review can be a short introductory section of a research article or a report or policy paper that focuses on recent research. Or, in the case of dissertations, theses, and review articles, it can be an extensive review of all relevant research.

The format is usually a bibliographic essay; sources are briefly cited within the body of the essay, with full bibliographic citations at the end.
The introduction should define the topic and set the context for the literature review. It will include the author's perspective or point of view on the topic, how they have defined the scope of the topic (including what's not included), and how the review will be organized. It can point out overall trends, conflicts in methodology or conclusions, and gaps in the research.
In the body of the review, the author should organize the research into major topics and subtopics. These groupings may be by subject, (e.g., globalization of clothing manufacturing), type of research (e.g., case studies), methodology (e.g., qualitative), genre, chronology, or other common characteristics. Within these groups, the author can then discuss the merits of each article and analyze and compare the importance of each article to similar ones.
The conclusion will summarize the main findings, make clear how this review of the literature supports (or not) the research to follow, and may point the direction for further research.
The list of references will include full citations for all of the items mentioned in the literature review.

Key Questions for a Literature Review

A literature review should try to answer questions such as

Who are the key researchers on this topic?
What has been the focus of the research efforts so far and what is the current status?
How have certain studies built on prior studies? Where are the connections? Are there new interpretations of the research?
Have there been any controversies or debate about the research? Is there consensus? Are there any contradictions?
Which areas have been identified as needing further research? Have any pathways been suggested?
How will your topic uniquely contribute to this body of knowledge?
Which methodologies have researchers used and which appear to be the most productive?
What sources of information or data were identified that might be useful to you?
How does your particular topic fit into the larger context of what has already been done?
How has the research that has already been done help frame your current investigation ?

Examples of Literature Reviews

Example of a literature review at the beginning of an article: Forbes, C. C., Blanchard, C. M., Mummery, W. K., & Courneya, K. S. (2015, March). Prevalence and correlates of strength exercise among breast, prostate, and colorectal cancer survivors . Oncology Nursing Forum, 42(2), 118+. Retrieved from http://go.galegroup.com.sonoma.idm.oclc.org/ps/i.do?p=HRCA&sw=w&u=sonomacsu&v=2.1&it=r&id=GALE%7CA422059606&asid=27e45873fddc413ac1bebbc129f7649c Example of a comprehensive review of the literature: Wilson, J. L. (2016). An exploration of bullying behaviours in nursing: a review of the literature. British Journal Of Nursing , 25 (6), 303-306. For additional examples, see:

Galvan, J., Galvan, M., & ProQuest. (2017). Writing literature reviews: A guide for students of the social and behavioral sciences (Seventh ed.). [Electronic book]

Pan, M., & Lopez, M. (2008). Preparing literature reviews: Qualitative and quantitative approaches (3rd ed.). Glendale, CA: Pyrczak Pub. [ Q180.55.E9 P36 2008]

Useful Links

Write a Literature Review (UCSC)
Literature Reviews (Purdue)
Literature Reviews: overview (UNC)
Review of Literature (UW-Madison)

Evidence Matrix for Literature Reviews

The Evidence Matrix can help you organize your research before writing your lit review. Use it to identify patterns and commonalities in the articles you have found--similar methodologies ? common theoretical frameworks ? It helps you make sure that all your major concepts covered. It also helps you see how your research fits into the context of the overall topic.

Evidence Matrix Special thanks to Dr. Cindy Stearns, SSU Sociology Dept, for permission to use this Matrix as an example.
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200+ Top Sociology Research Topics

Updated 17 Jun 2024

Why is it important to choose the right research topic in sociology? There is hardly a student on our planet who intentionally writes and submits poorly written, plagiarized, or uncompleted papers. In most cases, it results from constant procrastination caused by a lack of motivation and interest. After a few weeks of research, there appears to be nothing left on sociology research topics. That is why choosing a question, problem, pattern, or phenomenon to research is an essential part of the work that needs time and consideration. Taking the one from a research paper writer lists is not an option for conscious and motivated students.

The difficulty of choice is becoming more severe within the streaming growth of data scopes.

Research Methods of Sociology

While it is possible to choose your methodology based on your course specifics, following one of seven research methods of sociology is still recommended. These methods involve not only the purpose statement but also structure, composition, and research methods. Starting from the use of specific surveys to the general observation, you should implement your methodology as justification for your exploration and analysis.

Consider these seven sociology research methods:

Implementation of Social Surveys . By turning to this method, you add data from the large social groups.
Identification of The Connections . It studies the causes and effects related to a certain problem.
Interviews. By collecting information from actual people or specialists dealing with an issue, you make your research reliable.
Observation & Participation. It usually stands for collection of statistics from a particular group being studied.
Ethnography. The qualitative methodology focuses on social interactions, beliefs, vision, perceptions, and behavioral patterns.
Longitudinal Studies. It usually takes time as it focuses on prolonged studies to determine the scope of the problem.
Focus on Secondary Data Sources. It is a synthesis of information that has been collected by fellow researchers.

What are social science topics?

Social science topics involve scientific research into human society and social relationships. Major disciplines in this category are Economics, Geography, History, Archaeology, Anthropology, Politics, Law, Linguistics, Psychology, and Sociology.

What is a sociological topic?

By contrast, essays on sociology are more narrowly focused – they normally deal with the study of the structure, development, and functioning of human society, including social relationships, various social institutions and interactions between them.

What are some good sociology research topics?

Some good research topics in sociology deal with the institution of family and the changes it underwent throughout history, social media and its impact on individuals and society, the sociology of gender, including that of sexual minorities, social movements and groups, and social stereotypes.

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Tips on How to Choose a Good Topic for Sociology Research

Choosing a good topic for your sociology research should clearly outline a problem or make an argument that you want to make. Avoiding too general or vague statements that can be read or understood differently is recommended. The trick is to come up with those Sociology topics that inspire you and help your readers to find the solutions. Remember about plagiarism issues by always referencing each source and quote that you have. Here are the steps to consider as you make your choice:

Think over good ideas as you research your sociology research paper topics.
Choose only something that inspires you.
Address relevant social issues.
Compose a list of keywords that relate to your topic idea.
Think over relevant sources as you compose your thesis statement.
Always narrow your topic down to reflect the precise problem.
Identify sociology research methodology for your paper.
Provide not only your opinion but the counter-arguments as well.
Remember to compose your Bibliography in advance as you encounter each useful source.
Always make your topic's wording related to your thesis statement.

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Sociology Research Topics Ideas

Sociology includes a systematic plan for gathering and analyzing observations about the world. Determine the field that you find exciting. Finding problematic questions is the next step. The last research paper step is determining that there is enough literature on specific topic. Defining the field and unsettled questions will give you an idea of what to start with and how to work on research.

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Sociology Research Paper Topics for College Students

The Impact of Social Media on College Students' Mental Health
Diversity and Inclusion in Higher Education
The Sociology of Online Learning
Campus Culture and Student Activism
The Gig Economy and College Students
Gender Dynamics in College Sports
The Effects of Student Loan Debt on Post-College Life
Cultural Adaptation and International Students
Social Networking and Interpersonal Relationships in College
Mental Health Services on College Campuses
The Role of Greek Life in College Social Structure
Sustainability and Environmental Activism in Colleges
The Digital Divide and Educational Inequality in College
Body Image and Eating Disorders in College Populations
The Impact of COVID-19 on College Student Life

Sociology Research Topics on Family

Review sociology research topics list and choose the one that reflects your personal interests!

The Evolution of Family Structures in the 21st Century
Impact of Divorce on Children's Psychological Well-being
Single Parenting and Its Effects on Child Development
The Role of Extended Family in Modern Society
Cross-Cultural Comparisons of Family Dynamics
The Influence of Technology on Family Interactions
Work-Life Balance and Its Impact on Family Relationships
Adoption and Its Long-Term Effects on Families
The Changing Roles of Gender in Household Responsibilities
The Effects of Economic Stress on Family Units
Intergenerational Relationships and Family Dynamics
Same-Sex Parenting and Its Social Implications
The Impact of Immigration on Family Structures
Child-free by Choice: Reasons and Societal Responses
The Role of Family in Elderly Care and Aging

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Sociology of Nationality and Race

Nationality is an example of the most contradictive topics. It is always hot and actual!

The Impact of Globalization on National Identity
Racial and Ethnic Inequality in Education Systems
The Role of Race in Political Representation and Participation
Nationalism and Xenophobia in the 21st Century
Interracial Relationships and Social Perceptions
The Sociology of Immigration and Assimilation
Ethnic Minorities and Access to Healthcare
Cultural Retention vs. Assimilation among Immigrant Communities
Race and Policing: A Sociological Analysis
The Influence of Race on Employment Opportunities and Workplace Dynamics
Media Representation of Different Races and Nationalities
The Impact of Colonialism on Contemporary Racial Dynamics
Social Movements and Race: From Civil Rights to Black Lives Matter
The Role of Language in Shaping National and Racial Identity
Racial Stereotypes and Their Impact on Young People

Sociology Research Topics on Human Rights

The Sociological Impact of Refugee Crises on Human Rights
Gender Equality and Human Rights in the Workplace
The Role of Social Media in Human Rights Advocacy
Human Trafficking: Sociological Perspectives and Solutions
The Rights of Indigenous Peoples in Modern Societies
The Impact of Globalization on Labor Rights
LGBTQ+ Rights and Social Acceptance Across Cultures
Children's Rights and Child Labor in Developing Countries
The Sociological Aspects of Freedom of Speech and Censorship
Disability Rights and Inclusion in Society
The Intersection of Race and Policing: Human Rights Implications
Women's Rights in Traditional Societies
The Sociological Impact of Climate Change on Human Rights
The Rights of the Elderly in Aging Societies
Privacy Rights in the Digital Age: A Sociological Perspective

Sociology of Social Media

Modern sociology research paper topics are here:

The Influence of Social Media on Teenage Social Development
Social Media's Role in Shaping Public Opinion
The Impact of Social Media on Political Mobilization and Activism
Cyberbullying and Its Sociological Implications
Social Media Addiction: Causes and Effects
The Role of Social Media in Relationship Formation and Maintenance
Privacy and Surveillance on Social Media Platforms
The Spread of Misinformation and Fake News on Social Media
Social Media Influencers and Their Impact on Youth Culture
The Digital Divide: Access to Social Media in Different Socioeconomic Groups
Social Media and Mental Health: A Sociological Analysis
The Role of Social Media in Cultural Globalization
Social Media and Body Image Perceptions Among Adolescents
Social Media as a Tool for Social Change and Awareness Campaigns
The Evolution of Language and Communication in the Age of Social Media

Sociology Research Topics on Interpersonal Communication

The Impact of Non-Verbal Communication in Different Cultures
The Role of Technology in Shaping Modern Interpersonal Communication
Communication Styles and Conflict Resolution in Relationships
The Influence of Social Media on Face-to-Face Communication
Language Barriers and Their Impact on Social Integration
The Effects of Digital Communication on Empathy and Emotional Intelligence
Gender Differences in Communication Styles and Perceptions
The Role of Communication in Maintaining Long-Distance Relationships
Interpersonal Communication in the Workplace: Hierarchies and Power Dynamics
The Impact of Cultural Differences on Communication in Multicultural Societies
Communication Challenges in Inter-Generational Relationships
The Psychology of Persuasion and Influence in Social Interactions
The Role of Active Listening in Effective Communication
Communication Strategies for Conflict Management and Resolution
The Impact of Social Isolation on Communication Skills and Social Interaction.

Sociology Research Topics on Stereotypes

The Formation and Impact of Gender Stereotypes in Society
Racial Stereotypes and Their Influence on Social Interactions
Stereotyping and Prejudice in Educational Settings
The Media's Role in Perpetuating Ethnic Stereotypes
Age Stereotypes and Ageism in the Workplace
The Impact of Stereotyping on Mental Health
Stereotypes in the Criminal Justice System
The Effects of Stereotyping in Sports and Athletics
Cultural Stereotypes and Their Impact on International Relations
Stereotypes and Body Image: Societal Expectations and Self-Perception
The Role of Stereotypes in Political Discourse and Ideology
Stereotypes in Advertising and Consumer Behavior
Disability Stereotypes and Social Inclusion
Breaking Down Stereotypes: Strategies for Social Change
The Influence of Social Media on the Formation and Spread of Stereotypes.

Sociology of Gender

The Evolution of Gender Roles in Modern Society
Gender Inequality in the Workplace
The Impact of Media on Gender Perceptions and Stereotypes
Gender and Education: Differences in Learning and Academic Achievement
The Sociology of Transgender and Non-Binary Identities
Masculinity and Mental Health: Societal Expectations and Realities
Feminism in the 21st Century: Achievements and Challenges
Gender and Sexuality: Social Attitudes and Changing Norms
The Role of Gender in Political Leadership and Representation
Gender Dynamics in Family Structures and Parenting
Gender-Based Violence: Societal Causes and Responses
The Intersection of Gender and Race in Social Stratification
Gender and Technology: Access, Usage, and Representation
The Impact of Gender Stereotypes in Sports and Physical Education
Gender and Religion: Traditional Roles and Contemporary Shifts.

Sociology of Youth Culture

The most involving sociology topics for research among youth. Best ideas relating to hobbies, subcultures, and sports are here:

The Influence of Social Media on Youth Culture and Identity
Trends in Music and Fashion Among Today's Youth
The Role of Technology in Shaping Youth Interactions and Relationships
Youth Subcultures and Their Societal Impact
The Changing Landscape of Teenage Communication in the Digital Age
Youth Activism and Political Engagement in Contemporary Society
The Impact of Globalization on Youth Culture and Identity
Mental Health Issues Among Adolescents in Modern Society
The Effects of Peer Pressure and Social Expectations on Teenagers
Youth and Education: Attitudes Towards School and Learning
The Representation of Youth in Media and Popular Culture
The Influence of Celebrity Culture on Teenagers' Values and Aspirations
Youth Unemployment and Its Social Consequences
The Role of Sports and Recreation in Youth Development
The Impact of Family Dynamics on Youth Behavior and Attitudes.

Research Topics in Educational Sociology

The Impact of Socioeconomic Status on Educational Achievement
Gender Disparities in Academic Performance and Subject Preferences
The Role of Cultural Capital in Educational Success
The Effects of School Climate on Student Learning and Behavior
Educational Inequality and Access to Resources
The Influence of Teacher Expectations on Student Performance
The Sociological Implications of Standardized Testing
The Impact of Technology and Digital Learning on Education
School-to-Prison Pipeline: Sociological Perspectives
The Role of Parental Involvement in Student Academic Outcomes
Bullying in Schools: Causes, Effects, and Interventions
The Effects of School Choice and Educational Policy on Communities
The Role of Education in Social Mobility
Multicultural Education and Curriculum Development
The Sociological Impact of Homeschooling and Alternative Education Models.

The Sociology of Social Movements

The Role of Social Media in Modern Social Movements
Grassroots Movements: Formation, Mobilization, and Impact
The Influence of Political Climate on Social Movement Emergence
Environmental Movements and Their Societal Impact
The Dynamics of Leadership in Social Movements
Gender and Participation in Social Movements
The Impact of Globalization on Transnational Social Movements
Social Movements and Policy Change: Mechanisms and Outcomes
The Role of Art and Culture in Social Movements
The Psychology Behind Collective Action and Social Movement Participation
The Impact of Economic Conditions on Labor and Worker Movements
Identity Politics and Social Movements
The Evolution of Civil Rights Movements Across Decades
Social Movements and the Media: Framing and Public Perception
The Effectiveness of Nonviolent vs. Violent Strategies in Social Movements.

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Sociology Research Topics on Social Issues and Cultural Biases

The Sociological Impact of Racial Profiling and Discrimination
Gender Bias in the Workplace: Causes and Consequences
The Influence of Media on Cultural Stereotyping
Social Inequality and Access to Healthcare
The Effects of Poverty on Child Development and Education
Ageism in Modern Society: Causes and Impacts
The Role of Religion in Shaping Cultural Biases
Immigration and Xenophobia: Societal Causes and Effects
LGBTQ+ Discrimination and Social Acceptance
The Impact of Language Barriers on Social Integration
Social Stigma and Mental Health: A Sociological Perspective
The Role of Education in Overcoming Cultural Biases
The Effects of Urbanization on Community and Social Relationships
The Sociological Aspects of Body Image and Beauty Standards
The Impact of Social Media on the Perpetuation of Cultural Biases.

Medical Sociology Research Topics

The Impact of Socioeconomic Status on Access to Healthcare
Cultural Beliefs and Their Influence on Health Practices
The Sociology of Mental Health and Illness
Health Disparities and Inequalities in Different Communities
The Role of Social Networks in Health and Illness
The Stigma Associated with Chronic Illnesses and Disabilities
The Impact of Healthcare Policies on Patient Outcomes
Doctor-Patient Relationships: Communication and Trust
The Sociological Implications of Emerging Medical Technologies
The Effect of Workplace Environment on Employee Health
Social Determinants of Health Behaviors and Outcomes
The Impact of Globalization on Public Health Issues
Ethical Issues in Medical Sociology: Euthanasia, Abortion, and Bioethics
The Role of Religion and Spirituality in Health and Healing
The Sociological Aspects of Aging and Geriatric Healthcare.

Environmental Sociology Topics

The Sociological Impact of Climate Change on Communities
Environmental Justice and Inequality
The Role of Social Movements in Environmental Policy Change
Urbanization and Its Environmental Consequences
Societal Attitudes Towards Renewable Energy and Sustainability
The Intersection of Economy and Environment: Sociological Perspectives
Cultural Influences on Environmental Practices and Ethics
The Social Dimensions of Water Scarcity and Management
Environmental Racism and Its Impact on Marginalized Communities
Consumerism and Its Impact on the Environment
The Sociology of Natural Disasters: Preparedness and Response
The Role of Education in Promoting Environmental Awareness
The Impact of Agricultural Practices on the Environment
The Relationship Between Population Growth and Environmental Degradation
The Influence of Media on Public Perception of Environmental Issues.

Food Sociology Research Topics

The Cultural Significance of Food in Different Societies
The Impact of Globalization on Local Food Traditions
Societal Attitudes Towards Vegetarianism and Veganism
Food Insecurity and Its Social Implications
The Role of Food in Social Identity and Group Dynamics
The Sociology of Eating Disorders and Body Image
The Impact of Fast Food Culture on Health and Society
Food Deserts and Access to Healthy Food in Urban Areas
The Social and Cultural Aspects of Cooking and Meal Preparation
The Influence of Social Media on Food Trends and Eating Habits
The Relationship Between Food, Class, and Status
The Sociology of Food Labeling and Consumer Choices
Ethical and Sociological Implications of Genetically Modified Foods
The Role of Food in Festivals and Social Gatherings
The Intersection of Food and Environmental Sustainability.

Writing custom college paper on interesting sociology research topic for students makes you not only a better student but also a good specialist in a field. Approving or disapproving hypothesis may appear more exciting than it seems. Remember to choose only topics in sociology related to your personal interests. It turns projects into an exciting process. Be it a lab report, essays, research papers, course works, term papers, theses, or other projects, a team of professional writers at our college paper writing service is always there to help you. Request a sample now - check out how easy it is.

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Research Topics & Ideas: Sociology

50 Topic Ideas To Kickstart Your Research Project

Research topics and ideas about sociology

If you’re just starting out exploring sociology-related topics for your dissertation, thesis or research project, you’ve come to the right place. In this post, we’ll help kickstart your research by providing a hearty list of research ideas , including real-world examples from recent sociological studies.

PS – This is just the start…

We know it’s exciting to run through a list of research topics, but please keep in mind that this list is just a starting point . These topic ideas provided here are intentionally broad and generic , so keep in mind that you will need to develop them further. Nevertheless, they should inspire some ideas for your project.

To develop a suitable research topic, you’ll need to identify a clear and convincing research gap , and a viable plan to fill that gap. If this sounds foreign to you, check out our free research topic webinar that explores how to find and refine a high-quality research topic, from scratch. Alternatively, consider our 1-on-1 coaching service .

Sociology-Related Research Topics

Analyzing the social impact of income inequality on urban gentrification.
Investigating the effects of social media on family dynamics in the digital age.
The role of cultural factors in shaping dietary habits among different ethnic groups.
Analyzing the impact of globalization on indigenous communities.
Investigating the sociological factors behind the rise of populist politics in Europe.
The effect of neighborhood environment on adolescent development and behavior.
Analyzing the social implications of artificial intelligence on workforce dynamics.
Investigating the impact of urbanization on traditional social structures.
The role of religion in shaping social attitudes towards LGBTQ+ rights.
Analyzing the sociological aspects of mental health stigma in the workplace.
Investigating the impact of migration on family structures in immigrant communities.
The effect of economic recessions on social class mobility.
Analyzing the role of social networks in the spread of disinformation.
Investigating the societal response to climate change and environmental crises.
The role of media representation in shaping public perceptions of crime.
Analyzing the sociocultural factors influencing consumer behavior.
Investigating the social dynamics of multigenerational households.
The impact of educational policies on social inequality.
Analyzing the social determinants of health disparities in urban areas.
Investigating the effects of urban green spaces on community well-being.
The role of social movements in shaping public policy.
Analyzing the impact of social welfare systems on poverty alleviation.
Investigating the sociological aspects of aging populations in developed countries.
The role of community engagement in local governance.
Analyzing the social effects of mass surveillance technologies.

Sociology Research Ideas (Continued)

Investigating the impact of gentrification on small businesses and local economies.
The role of cultural festivals in fostering community cohesion.
Analyzing the societal impacts of long-term unemployment.
Investigating the role of education in cultural integration processes.
The impact of social media on youth identity and self-expression.
Analyzing the sociological factors influencing drug abuse and addiction.
Investigating the role of urban planning in promoting social integration.
The impact of tourism on local communities and cultural preservation.
Analyzing the social dynamics of protest movements and civil unrest.
Investigating the role of language in cultural identity and social cohesion.
The impact of international trade policies on local labor markets.
Analyzing the role of sports in promoting social inclusion and community development.
Investigating the impact of housing policies on homelessness.
The role of public transport systems in shaping urban social life.
Analyzing the social consequences of technological disruption in traditional industries.
Investigating the sociological implications of telecommuting and remote work trends.
The impact of social policies on gender equality and women’s rights.
Analyzing the role of social entrepreneurship in addressing societal challenges.
Investigating the effects of urban renewal projects on community identity.
The role of public art in urban regeneration and social commentary.
Analyzing the impact of cultural diversity on education systems.
Investigating the sociological factors driving political apathy among young adults.
The role of community-based organizations in addressing urban poverty.
Analyzing the social impacts of large-scale sporting events on host cities.
Investigating the sociological dimensions of food insecurity in affluent societies.

Recent Studies & Publications: Sociology

While the ideas we’ve presented above are a decent starting point for finding a research topic, they are fairly generic and non-specific. So, it helps to look at actual sociology-related studies to see how this all comes together in practice.

Below, we’ve included a selection of recent studies to help refine your thinking. These are actual studies, so they can provide some useful insight as to what a research topic looks like in practice.

Social system learning process (Subekti et al., 2022)
Sociography: Writing Differently (Kilby & Gilloch, 2022)
The Future of ‘Digital Research’ (Cipolla, 2022).
A sociological approach of literature in Leo N. Tolstoy’s short story God Sees the Truth, But Waits (Larasati & Irmawati, 2022)
Teaching methods of sociology research and social work to students at Vietnam Trade Union University (Huu, 2022)
Ideology and the New Social Movements (Scott, 2023)
The sociological craft through the lens of theatre (Holgersson, 2022).
An Essay on Sociological Thinking, Sociological Thought and the Relationship of a Sociologist (Sönmez & Sucu, 2022)
How Can Theories Represent Social Phenomena? (Fuhse, 2022)
Hyperscanning and the Future of Neurosociology (TenHouten et al., 2022)
Sociology of Wisdom: The Present and Perspectives (Jijyan et al., 2022). Collective Memory (Halbwachs & Coser, 2022)
Sociology as a scientific discipline: the post-positivist conception of J. Alexander and P. Kolomi (Vorona, 2022)
Murder by Usury and Organised Denial: A critical realist perspective on the liberating paradigm shift from psychopathic dominance towards human civilisation (Priels, 2022)
Analysis of Corruption Justice In The Perspective of Legal Sociology (Hayfa & Kansil, 2023)
Contributions to the Study of Sociology of Education: Classical Authors (Quentin & Sophie, 2022)
Inequality without Groups: Contemporary Theories of Categories, Intersectional Typicality, and the Disaggregation of Difference (Monk, 2022)

As you can see, these research topics are a lot more focused than the generic topic ideas we presented earlier. So, for you to develop a high-quality research topic, you’ll need to get specific and laser-focused on a specific context with specific variables of interest. In the video below, we explore some other important things you’ll need to consider when crafting your research topic.

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If you’re still unsure about how to find a quality research topic, check out our Research Topic Kickstarter service, which is the perfect starting point for developing a unique, well-justified research topic.

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Research Paper Guide

Sociology Research Topics

Last updated on: Dec 30, 2023

Great Sociology Research Topics & Ideas (2024)

By: Nathan D.

Reviewed By: Jacklyn H.

Published on: Dec 21, 2021

You need to choose a topic for your sociology research paper, but you have no clue where to start?

There is nothing more important than choosing the right one. After all, students must write an interesting and engaging research paper that grabs their readers’ attention from beginning through the end. So, if they want them hooked, they'll be compelled to read on.

To ensure that you're always on track with the process, we have divided topics into categories. Browse through this and choose the one that is both relevant and interesting.

Are you looking for the most interesting sociology research paper topics? Below we have collected some interesting topics and ideas. Our experts analyzed all these fascinating topics and picked only ones that are relevant to your needs. So, there’ll be something here, whether it's a new perspective on an old issue or just inspiration.

On this Page

Sociology Research Topics for College Students

The concept of social mobility and its modern development
Discuss the problems of third world countries
How does single parenting impact the life of the children?
Promotion of multiple cultural traditions
The perception of friendship and dependability among college students
How can clean eating change a person's life for the better?
Gamesmanship and its influence on young people
Are there any peculiarities of parenting in LGBT families?
The role of the family in the formation of the child’s personality
Impact of leadership style on labor efficiency

Sociology Research Topics for High School Students

What are the effects of online communication on social skills?
Does consumption of meat affect our environment?
The most iconic feminist movements in the US
The patriarchal nature of the modern political sphere
What causes the problem of young people’s attitude towards their future?
What is the impact of globalization on different cultures?
The impact of musical education and music on teenagers
Race and gender stereotypes represented on TV
Should females have the same workplace rights as male workers?
What is the difference between religion and spiritualism?

Sociology Research Topics on Crime

Race and the criminal justice system
Does the crime rate depend on the neighborhood?
Capital punishment in the justice system
Can stricter laws make gun possession safer?
Why is capital punishment common among men than women?
How does integrating civil laws in society prevent crime?
What are the differences between murder and homicide?
The link between aggressive behavior and crime
Civil and criminal cases: How to differentiate?
Imprisonment psychological effect

Sociology Research Topics on Family

Sibling relationships during old age
What social success do children from the middle class achieve?
What are the consequences of divorce on children?
The work of nannies and expectations of employers
Family differences across ethnic groups and races
Family counseling: why is it so important?
How do nontraditional families affect childhood?
Importance of family life education in reproductive health
Importance of marriage
Challenges faced by family lawyers

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Sociology Research Topics on Gender

Gender Stereotypes in media/workplace/region
How do women in sport fight for equality?
Gender profiling in the millennial world
Gender inequality on the job
What are some important women’s rights in different countries?
The gender differences in the education and professional career
How to get out of an abusive relationship?
Do men make better leaders?
Explain the purpose of gender mainstreaming
Childfree movement and gender

Sociology Research Topics on Mental Health

Compare an introvert behavior vs. extrovert behavior
Opportunities and challenges in mental health treatment
Is mental health treatment becoming less stigmatized?
Social issues related to the determinants of modern healthcare
What social factors lead to poor health conditions in NYC?
Which gender has the most mental illness, men or women?
Healthy and unhealthy ways of coping with stress
Impact of competitive sports on kids' mental health
Differentiate between short and long-term memory
The educational and healthcare opportunities depend on the income.

Sociology Research Topics on Social Media

Does social media lead to depression and anxiety?
How do modern films provoke violence among people?
Why is blogging one of the latest professions?
Does social media promote narcissism?
Do social groups spread or kill stereotyping?
LinkedIn is a major platform of the social networks
What are the types of political propaganda on social sites?
Social movements bring peace to the country
The culture of photography on social media.
Impact of gender stereotypes in the media on society

Sociology Research Topics on Deviance

Death of the sociology of deviance?
Deviance research methods
What is deviance?
Deviance and crime
Organizational deviance
Addiction and dependency
Deviance theories
Abominations of the body
Collective Deviance
Body modification

Medical Sociology Research Topics

What are the social effects of mental disorders?
The development of new ways of treatment
Medical and sociological research: issues and methods
Top three ways to improve health care for the elderly.
Mental illness and social status
The role of globalization in healthcare access.
Can happiness cure diseases?
How should a doctor-patient relationship be?
What are the better ways to cure depression?
The ethical side of communication between the nurse and the patient

Urban Sociology Research Topics

Communities and neighborhoods
Neighborhood effects and community change
Methods in Urban Sociology
Urban issues in developing world
Urban poverty and the city
Sociological perspectives on urban life
Urban planning and change
Socioeconomic status and health and of youth.
Urban life and health
Sociology and globalization

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Easy Sociology Research Topics

Relationship between race and educational levels
How has marriage changed in the United States?
How to understand the symptoms of grief?
Significant signs of substance use problem
Migration intentions of student youth.
The difference in serving sizes over time
The most common stereotypes about Islam
Is shopping a sociological practice?
How can racism affect the growth of the economy in a given country?
The attitude of students to the chosen profession

Interesting Sociology Research Topics

Which form of government can explain social science in a better way?
Does the environment impact our society?
How does foreign education influence further professional success?
Impact of sociological studies on students
The religious basis of the social development
Does writing a research paper on the topics of race nationality impact society?
Discuss the solution to stop terrorism in the United States.
Differences in suicidal behavior in male and female college students
Why do some young people believe in magic?
The challenges of preschool education at home

Take your sociology research paper to the next level with these topics. They're sure to keep you on track and help produce a top-notch and engaging research paper.

You can customize or combine these topics the way you want. But if something still confuses and puzzles about which topic would be best for your paper, we're here to help.

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Education, Literature

Nathan completed his Ph.D. in journalism and has been writing articles for well-respected publications for many years now. His work is carefully researched and insightful, showing a true passion for the written word. Nathan's clients appreciate his expertise, deep understanding of the process, and ability to communicate difficult concepts clearly.

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100 Sociology Research Topics You Can Use Right Now

Sociology is a study of society, relationships, and culture. It can include multiple topics—ranging from class and social mobility to the Internet and marriage traditions. Research in sociology is used to inform policy makers , educators , businesses , social workers , non-profits , etc.

Below are 100 sociology research topics you can use right now, divided by general topic headings. Feel free to adapt these according to your specific interest. You'll always conduct more thorough and informed research if it's a topic you're passionate about.

Art, Food, Music, and Culture

Does art imitate life or does life imitate art?
How has globalization changed local culture?
What role does food play in cultural identity?
Does technology use affect people's eating habits?
How has fast food affected society?
How can clean eating change a person's life for the better?
Should high-sugar drinks be banned from school campuses?
How can travel change a person for the better?
How does music affect the thoughts and actions of teenagers?
Should performance artists be held partially responsible if someone is inspired by their music to commit a crime?
What are some examples of cultural misappropriation?
What role does music play in cultural identity?

Social Solutions and Cultural Biases

What (if any) are the limits of free speech in a civil society?
What are some reasonable solutions to overpopulation?
What are some ways in which different types of media content influence society's attitudes and behaviors?
What is the solution to stop the rise of homegrown terrorism in the U.S.?
Should prescription drug companies be allowed to advertise directly to consumers?
Is the global warming movement a hoax? Why or why not?
Should the drinking age be lowered?
Should more gun control laws be enacted in the U.S.?
What bias exists against people who are obese?
Should polygamy be legal in the U.S.? Why or why not?
Should there be a legal penalty for using racial slurs?
Should the legal working age of young people be raised or lowered?
Should the death penalty be used in all cases involving first-degree murder?
Should prisons be privately owned? Why or why not?
What is privilege? How is it defined and how can it be used to gain access to American politics and positions of power?
How are women discriminated against in the workplace?
What role does feminism play in current American politics?
What makes a patriot?
Compare/analyze the social views of Plato and Aristotle
How has labor migration changed America?
What important skills have been lost in an industrialized West?
Is the #MeToo movement an important one? Why or why not?
What conflict resolution skills would best serve us in the present times?
How can violence against women be dealt with to lower incidence rates?
Should students be allowed to take any subject they want in High School and avoid the ones they don't like?
How should bullies be dealt with in our country's schools?
Do standardized tests improve education or have the opposite effect?
Should school children be forced to go through metal detectors?
What is the best teacher/student ratio for enhanced learning in school?
Do school uniforms decrease teasing and bullying? If so, how?
Should teachers make more money?
Should public education be handled through private enterprises (like charter schools)?
Should religious education be given priority over academic knowledge?
How can schools help impoverished students in ways that won't embarrass them?
What are ethical values that should be considered in education?
Is it the state's role or the parents' role to educate children? Or a combination of both?
Should education be given more political priority than defense and war?
What would a perfect educational setting look like? How would it operate and what subjects would be taught?

Marriage and Family

How should a "family" be defined? Can it be multiple definitions?
What is a traditional role taken on by women that would be better handled by a man (and vice versa)?
How has marriage changed in the United States?
What are the effects of divorce on children?
Is there a negative effect on children who are adopted by a family whose ethnicity is different than their own?
Can children receive all they need from a single parent?
Does helicopter parenting negatively affect children?
Is marriage outdated?
Should teens have access to birth control without their parents' permission?
Should children be forced to show physical affection (hugs, etc.) to family members they're uncomfortable around?
What are the benefits (or negative impact) of maintaining traditional gender roles in a family?
Are social networks safe for preteens and teens? Why or why not?
Should the government have a say in who can get married?
What (if any) are the benefits of arranged marriages?
What are the benefits for (or negative impact on) children being adopted by LGBTQ couples?
How long should two people date before they marry?
Should children be forced to be involved in activities (such as sports, gymnastics, clubs, etc.), even when they'd rather sit at home and play video games all day?
Should parents be required to take a parenting class before having children?
What are potential benefits to being married but choosing not to have children?

Generational

Should communities take better care of their elderly? How?
What are some generational differences among Generations X, Y, and Z?
What benefits do elderly people get from interaction with children?
How has Generation Y changed the country so far?
What are the differences in communication styles between Generation X and Generation Y (Millennials)?
Why could we learn from our elders that could not be learned from books?
Should the elderly live with their immediate family (children and grandchildren)? How would this resolve some of our country's current problems?
What are some positive or negative consequences to intergenerational marriage?

Sociology explores themes of community and relationships.

Spiritualism, religion, and superstition

Why do some people believe in magic?
What is the difference between religion and spiritualism?
Should a government be a theocracy? Why or why not?
How has religion helped (or harmed) our country?
Should religious leaders be able to support a particular candidate from their pulpit?
How have religious cults shaped the nation?
Should students at religious schools be forced to take state tests?
How has our human connection with nature changed while being trapped in crowded cities?
Which generation from the past 200 years made the biggest impact on culture with their religious practice and beliefs? Explain your answer.

Addiction and Mental Health

How should our society deal with addicts?
What are ethical values that should be considered in mental health treatment?
Should mental health be required coverage on all insurance policies?
Is mental health treatment becoming less stigmatized?
How would better access to mental health change our country?
What are some things we're addicted to as a society that are not seen as "addiction," per se?
Should medicinal marijuana be made legal?
What are some alternative treatments for mental health and wellness instead of antidepressants?
Has social media helped or harmed our society?
Are video games addictive for young people and what should be done to curb the addiction?
Should all recreational drugs be made legal?
How has mental health treatment changed in the past 20 years?
Should recreational marijuana be made legal?
How is family counseling a good option for families going through conflict?
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Research Guides

Doing a Literature Review in Sociology

Introduction, early in the process, during data analysis, getting ready to write, before submitting the paper.

Searching: Early in the Process
Organizing: Getting Ready to Write

Top Journals & Publishers

Recommended Journals

American Journal of Sociology Published by University of Chicago Press, available through JSTOR
American Sociological Review Published by the American Sociological Association, available through SAGE Journals database
Annual Review of Sociology Published by Annual Reviews, available through Brandeis subscription to the Annual Reviews website
Social Forces Published by Oxford University Press, most recent issues (2000-present) available through Project Muse database
Social Problems Published by Oxford University Press, available through Brandeis subscription to Oxford University Press website
Theory & Society Published by Springer, available through Brandeis's subscription to Springer Standard Collection

Recommended Publishers

Found a good book that we don't own? Contact [email protected] to request a library purchase!

A literature review helps you figure out what scholars, what studies, and what questions your project is in conversation with. It typically happens in stages throughout the life of your project – it is not something you do once and are then finished with!

This guide explores how to think about and do a literature review at four different stages of a project. On this page, Professor Wendy Cadge suggests how to think about each step. Get specific advice on strategies for searching and organizing on the subsequent pages of this guide.

Wendy's Process

The first time I do a literature review is when I am thinking about possible research topics and questions and want to know what people have written about these questions and what they have found. I search the topics and questions broadly aiming to get a relatively comprehensive sense of what is known about my topic and whether there is space for another study that is going to contribute meaningfully to the conversation. I am trying to figure out both who is in this conversation (what scholars specifically but also in what fields), what they are talking about, and what is known and not known according to these experts.

The goal here is to figure out whether my study will be new and relevant and whether there is a way to motivate it both empirically and theoretically for the audience I am thinking of. I need this answer to be yes in order to proceed with the process.

As I do this initial literature review I am also refining my research question, asking myself whether it makes sense, how it relates to the ways others have approached my topic, etc. Often questions are too big (they will require thousands of pages to answer) or too small (you don’t need an empirical study to answer them) so I am also trying to get my question to be the right size as I do this first review.

My search strategies are as follows Google Scholar and Sociological Abstracts with key terms, and focus on books published by major presses and articles in well-known journals. When I get hits I sort them into groups based on what they are - materials by sociologists, by other academics, by journalists, etc. I only read things that are published (no conference papers!) and read books in the top academic presses first (Chicago, UC Berkeley, Princeton, Oxford, Cambridge) and things in well-known sociology journals. (See the box to the left for links to these journals.) Depending on the topic, I may read a lot written by non-sociologists to learn more . I read almost nothing in the popular media on the first go through.

I also don’t “read” everything - I skim books and read article abstracts to get an overview. The goal is to write 5-6 double spaced pages about what is known and what my study might add. I also want to have a set of more specific search terms and author names to search later. Typically I am mostly reviewing the sociology literature to think about how to fit this into a social science frame while also separating out “primary sources” to read later. These other sources about my topic include data (like government reports, statistical information etc.), which will be analyzed later rather than used for sociological framing.

Before I start collecting data I check with various colleagues to make sure my assessment of the literature and the place of my study in it (my 5-6 page document) makes sense and is convincing (i.e., I don’t want to waste my time gathering data to answer a question that people either don’t think is interesting, has already been answered in the literature, or isn’t going to add anything new and significant to the conversation. I don’t want to be the dud at the dinner party who is saying something people already know or doesn’t have anything to say.

Themes typically emerge in the process of analyzing the data that require me to revisit what I think I know about my topic and question from the literature. This is usually the place where I am trying to figure out what my empirical and theoretical arguments are. Often I have ideas about what my theoretical hooks or arguments might be but they come from other literatures, scholars or friends working in different parts of sociology, etc. This is often where I go back to the literature (via Annual Review articles and searches) to see how people have used certain concepts and to see if those concepts might help me articulate what I am finding. I also read the key empirical articles cited in the Annual Review articles to see how what I am finding is similar to and different from what others know and how I can relate to those studies with my data.

Search strategies Google scholar and Sociological Abstracts, Annual review articles, asking people who know the discipline better than I do where to go to learn about concept x or y. At this point I’m looking for ideas as I read that will help me make and articulate whatever arguments might be supported by my data.

By the time I finish this step I have a good sense of what my findings and argument are and how they fit i nto the existing conversation / literature.

If I have done the above two steps well, I probably have an outline by now that lays out what I think my findings are and how I am going to situate them and motivate them in existing literatures. Before I start to write I read through my entire Endnote database and I put citations and notes in the outline that will help me make certain points. If I see holes or don’t feel like the outline is tight enough I do more lit review at this point to help me situate my question as tightly as possible in existing literature. While articles are written in a way that makes it look like you do the lit review, then the data collection and analysis, then articulate the findings, etc. this is actually iterative for me through the whole process.

For more information on EndNote and other citation management software like Zotero, see the Organizing section of this guide .

Search strategies The same as what’s outlined above. Part of the trick here though is knowing when to stop searching and start writing! I try to start writing before I feel like I am finished reading because I will discover as I write what is missing and will go back and fill it in.

I have friends and colleagues read my paper and give me feedback. If this is going to a journal I look at the editorial board and make sure I have engaged with the ideas of any scholars on the editorial board that are relevant as these people are likely to be reviewers . I also always fill in a lot of citations after the article is drafted so I can see it as a whole and see what is and is not needed to make the argument more compelling.

Search strategies This is when I am looking up certain people usually on the web to see if I read relevant publications or am searching for a particular article. If I know I need some citations about a certain topic to support a point, this is also when I find them. This is usually the easiest part of the process.

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Last Updated: Mar 19, 2024 1:25 PM
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Sociology Research Guide

Picking a topic
Background research and finding books
Advanced searching in databases and Google
Finding statistics
Evaluating sources
Literature Reviews

What is a Lit Review?

How to write a lit review.

Video Introduction to Lit Reviews

Main Objectives

Examples of lit reviews, additional resources.

SOC1: Morales (Cultural Artifact)
SOC4: Ie (Literature Review)

What is a literature review?

Either a complete piece of writing unto itself or a section of a larger piece of writing like a book or article
A thorough and critical look at the information and perspectives that other experts and scholars have written about a specific topic
A way to give historical perspective on an issue and show how other researchers have addressed a problem
An analysis of sources based on your own perspective on the topic
Based on the most pertinent and significant research conducted in the field, both new and old

A descriptive list or collection of summaries of other research without synthesis or analysis
An annotated bibliography
A literary review (a brief, critical discussion about the merits and weaknesses of a literary work such as a play, novel or a book of poems)
Exhaustive; the objective is not to list as many relevant books, articles, reports as possible
To convey to your reader what knowledge and ideas have been established on a topic
To explain what the strengths and weaknesses of that knowledge and those ideas might be
To learn how others have defined and measured key concepts
To keep the writer/reader up to date with current developments and historical trends in a particular field or discipline
To establish context for the argument explored in the rest of a paper
To provide evidence that may be used to support your own findings
To demonstrate your understanding and your ability to critically evaluate research in the field
To suggest previously unused or underused methodologies, designs, and quantitative and qualitative strategies
To identify gaps in previous studies and flawed methodologies and/or theoretical approaches in order to avoid replication of mistakes
To help the researcher avoid repetition of earlier research
To suggest unexplored populations
To determine whether past studies agree or disagree and identify strengths and weaknesses on both sides of a controversy in the literature

Choose a topic that is interesting to you; this makes the research and writing process more enjoyable and rewarding.
For a literature review, you'll also want to make sure that the topic you choose is one that other researchers have explored before so that you'll be able to find plenty of relevant sources to review.

Your research doesn't need to be exhaustive. Pay careful attention to bibliographies. Focus on the most frequently cited literature about your topic and literature from the best known scholars in your field. Ask yourself: "Does this source make a significant contribution to the understanding of my topic?"
Reading other literature reviews from your field may help you get ideas for themes to look for in your research. You can usually find some of these through the library databases by adding literature review as a keyword in your search.
Start with the most recent publications and work backwards. This way, you ensure you have the most current information, and it becomes easier to identify the most seminal earlier sources by reviewing the material that current researchers are citing.

Labeled "Scientific Cat Types" with cartoon of cat on back ("Nugget"), cat lying iwth legs tucked underneath ("loaf") and cat sprawled out ("noodle")

The organization of your lit review should be determined based on what you'd like to highlight from your research. Here are a few suggestions:

Chronology : Discuss literature in chronological order of its writing/publication to demonstrate a change in trends over time or to detail a history of controversy in the field or of developments in the understanding of your topic.
Theme: Group your sources by subject or theme to show the variety of angles from which your topic has been studied. This works well if, for example, your goal is to identify an angle or subtopic that has so far been overlooked by researchers.
Methodology: Grouping your sources by methodology (for example, dividing the literature into qualitative vs. quantitative studies or grouping sources according to the populations studied) is useful for illustrating an overlooked population, an unused or underused methodology, or a flawed experimental technique.

Be selective. Highlight only the most important and relevant points from a source in your review.
Use quotes sparingly. Short quotes can help to emphasize a point, but thorough analysis of language from each source is generally unnecessary in a literature review.
Synthesize your sources. Your goal is not to make a list of summaries of each source but to show how the sources relate to one another and to your own work.
Make sure that your own voice and perspective remains front and center. Don't rely too heavily on summary or paraphrasing. For each source, draw a conclusion about how it relates to your own work or to the other literature on your topic.
Be objective. When you identify a disagreement in the literature, be sure to represent both sides. Don't exclude a source simply on the basis that it does not support your own research hypothesis.
At the end of your lit review, make suggestions for future research. What subjects, populations, methodologies, or theoretical lenses warrant further exploration? What common flaws or biases did you identify that could be corrected in future studies?

cat lying on laptop, facing screen; text reads "needs moar ciatations"

Double check that you've correctly cited each of the sources you've used in the citation style requested by your professor (APA, MLA, etc.) and that your lit review is formatted according to the guidelines for that style.

Your literature review should:

Be focused on and organized around your topic.
Synthesize your research into a summary of what is and is not known about your topic.
Identify any gaps or areas of controversy in the literature related to your topic.
Suggest questions that require further research.
Have your voice and perspective at the forefront rather than merely summarizing others' work.
Cyberbullying: How Physical Intimidation Influences the Way People are Bullied
Use of Propofol and Emergence Agitation in Children
Eternity and Immortality in Spinoza's 'Ethics'
Literature Review Tutorials and Samples - Wilson Library at University of La Verne
Literature Reviews: Introduction - University Library at Georgia State
Literature Reviews - The Writing Center at UNC Chapel Hill
Writing a Literature Review - Boston College Libraries
Write a Literature Review - University Library at UC Santa Cruz
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Literature Reviews (about this page)

Literature reviews/about this page:.

Literature reviews may be sections in a paper or full articles that categorized as literature reviews. This page on your course guide simply provides examples. For assignment clarification and details, always check with your instructor/professor to ensure you achieve the best outcome possible. I hope this helps gets you started!

Literature Review Guides

Writing a Literature Review [Owl at Purdue website] A literature review is a document or section of a document that collects key sources on a topic and discusses those sources in conversation with each other (also called synthesis). ... A literature review can be a part of a research paper or scholarly article, usually falling after the introduction and before the research methods sections. In these cases, the lit review just needs to cover scholarship that is important to the issue you are writing about; sometimes it will also cover key sources that informed your research methodology....

Video: Writing a Literature Review Section by SJSU King Library

Writing a Literature Review Section from SJSU King Library on Vimeo .

A key part of any research paper is the literature review section. Learn how to research, structure and write this important part of your project

Learn How to Write a Review of Literature A succinct description of the literature review process from The Writing Center at The University of Wisconsin-Madison.
Writing the Literature Review, Part I [Video] In this YouTube video, David Taylor at the University of Maryland University College gives a practical, clear explanation of the process. The sound isn't high quality, but his presentation is. 5:22 minutes.
Writing the Literature Review, Part 2 This YouTube video is a continuation of the one above. 7:40 minutes.
How to Evaluate Journal Articles A list of questions to ask when evaluating an article for a literature review, written by Naomi Lederer at the Colorado State University Libraries.
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Developing a Research Question
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Course Guides

Tips for Doing a Literature Review in Sociology

[Adapted from: USC Libraries Research Guides: 5: The Literature Review (this is an excellent, in-depth treatment of Social Science Research and the Literature Review): https://libguides.usc.edu/writingguide/literaturereview ]

What is the Purpose of a Literature Review?

A literature review is an important way of providing an overview and context for your paper topic and can encompass many types of publications, such as books, scholarly journal articles, or surveys & datasets. In the Social Sciences in particular, literature reviews usually are not merely lists and descriptions of relevant sources but also a synthesis, often with reorganization, around themes and trends in the literature. Thus, a literature review represents a critical analysis of sources related to your topic and where it fits into a larger field of study.

You might use a literature review to do the following:

bring a new interpretation to a topic or subject category;
contrast similarities and differences/conflicts among studies;
trace the history of trends and developments (themes) in a field; or
identify where gaps in research exist in the literature.

Review Articles

As you may recall from the Types of Periodicals/Articles tutorial , one excellent way of getting an overview of issues, concepts, and theories in a field over time is through review articles. You can use the Discover Advanced Search to focus in on these articles. Click the link above to review the characteristics of Review Articles.

One excellent way of getting an overview of issues, concepts, and theories in Sociology over time is through an annual publication known as the Annual Review of Sociology. This publication, which began in 1975, "... covers the significant developments in the field of sociology. Topics covered in the journal include major theoretical and methodological developments as well as current research in the major subfields. " ( https://www.annualreviews.org/journal/soc ).

The GS University Libraries provide online access to ARS via JSTOR, ProQuest Central and EBSCO EJS. See also the Types of Articles section in this guide for a more through description of Review Articles.

Annual Review of Sociology Click this link to navigate to the most recent volumes to get started (Note: if you are off-campus, you will need to log in with your GS username and password).

ADDITIONAL FEATURES OF LITERATURE REVIEWS:

Not all literature Reviews are the same! Here are a few different types:

Argumentative, Integrative, Historical, Methodological, Systematic & Theoretical.
Integrative Literature Reviews involve the overview, critique and synthesis of literature on a topic; sources can be integrated to allow the creation of new frameworks or perspectives.

Four Stages of a Literature Review

1. Problem formulation -- which topic or field is being examined and what are its component issues? 2. Literature search -- finding materials relevant to the subject being explored. 3. Data evaluation -- determining which literature makes a significant contribution to the understanding of the topic. 4. Analysis and interpretation -- discussing the findings and conclusions of pertinent literature.

Organization: There are also numerous ways you can organize your Literature Review- here are a few

Publication Chronology
Themes/Categories
Methodologies

[The above was adapted from: USC Libraries Research Guides: 5: The Literature Review, https://libguides.usc.edu/writingguide/literaturereview. It is an excellent, in-depth treatment of Social Science Research and the Literature Review. ]

Other considerations: What types of sources do you need? do you need theoretical overviews, study findings, or methodologies? how current does the information need to be? The answers to those questions will determine where you need to look for information in the articles/books and what sort of databases or repositories to consult.

See the box entitled: What Type of Article Do You Need ? for a tutorial on types of publications/articles and tips for reading academic articles.

If you have questions about finding or evaluating sources, please don't hesitate to contact me: [email protected] or make an appointment to meet with me--click here .

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Last Updated: May 21, 2024 1:46 PM
URL: https://georgiasouthern.libguides.com/soci

Research in Sociology

Choosing a Topic
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Government Documents
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Citations/Annotated Bibliography

How to use Scientific Articles in a Literature Review

Video explanations of a literature review, what is a literature review, types of literature reviews.

Ten Simple Rules for Writing a Literature Review

"A literature review is an account of what has been published on a topic by accredited scholars and researchers. Occasionally you will be asked to write one as a separate assignment, ..., but more often it is part of the introduction to an essay, research report, or thesis. In writing the literature review, your purpose is to convey to your reader what knowledge and ideas have been established on a topic, and what their strengths and weaknesses are. As a piece of writing, the literature review must be defined by a guiding concept (e.g., your research objective, the problem or issue you are discussing, or your argumentative thesis). It is not just a descriptive list of the material available, or a set of summaries."

- Taylor, D. (n.d). The literature review: A few tips on conducting it. Retrieved from http://www.writing.utoronto.ca/advice/specific-types-of-writing/literature-review

What are the goals of creating a Literature Review?

To develop a theory or evaluate an existing theory
To summarize the historical or existing state of a research topic
Identify a problem in a field of research

- Baumeister, R.F. & Leary, M.R. (1997). Writing narrative literature reviews. Review of General Psychology , 1 (3), 311-320.

What kinds of literature reviews are written?

Systematic review - "The authors of a systematic review use a specific procedure to search the research literature, select the studies to include in their review, and critically evaluate the studies they find." (p. 139)

- Nelson, L.K. (2013). Research in Communication Sciences and Disorders . San Diego, CA: Plural Publishing.

Meta-analysis - "Meta-analysis is a method of reviewing resarch findings in a quantitative fashion by transforming the data from individual studies into what is called an effect size and then pooling and analyzing this information. The basic goal in meta-analysis is to explain why different outcomes have occured in different studies." (p. 197)

-Roberts, M.C. & Ilardi, S.S. (2003). Handbook of Research Methods in Clinical Psychology . Malden, MA: Blackwell Pub.

Meta-synthesis - " Qualitative meta-synthesis is a type of qualitative study that uses as data the findings from other qualitative studies linked by the same or related topic." (p.312)

-Zimmer, L. (2006). Qualitative meta-synthesis: A question of dialoguing with texts. Journal of Advanced Nursing , 53 (3), 311-318. doi:10.1111/j.1365-2648.2006.03721.x

From University of Connecticut Library

Traditional or Narrative

Provides background for understanding current knowledge
Critiques, summarizes and draws conclusions from a body of knowledge
Identifies gaps or inconsistencies to be filled or corrected through further research and study
Helps to refine the topic and research question
Carries the flaw of becoming less useful as more information becomes available
Identifies, appraises and synthesizes available evidence in order to answer a specified research question
Applies a more rigorous approach that details the time frame of selected literature and method of critique and analysis
Uses explicit and well-defined methods in order to minimize bias and increase reliability
Includes as comprehensive an amount of studies as possible that includes both published and unpublished findings, such as "grey literature"

Meta-Analysis

Systematically locates, appraises and synthesizes data from a large body of findings using statistical analysis and techniques
Similar to a systematic review in that it integrates the findings of a large body of knowledge
Attempts to correct flaws of traditional or narrative reviews by allowing researchers to synthesize a greater amount of studies
Integrates and draws conclusions on research findings and seeks to detect broad patterns and relationships between studies

Meta-Synthesis

Attempts to bring together, juxtapose, re-analyze and combine findings from multiple qualitiative studies using non-statistical techniques
Seeks to discover or provide new interpretations, conceptions or theoretical developments
Combines multiple studies to identify common key themes and elements
May use findings from phenomenological, grounded theory or ethnographic studies

Borenstein, M.H., Viggins, L.V. & Julian, P.T. (2009). Introduction to Meta-Analysis. Hoboken, N.J.: Wiley

Cronin, P., Ryan, F. & Coughlan, M. (2008). Undertaking a literature review: A step-by-step approach . British Journal of Nursing, 17 (1), 38-43.

Glasziou, P. (2001). Systematic Reviews in Health Care : A Practical Guide. New York: Cambridge University Press.

Mays, C., Popay, N. & Jennie (2007). Synthesising Qualitative and Quantitative Health Research : A Guide to Methods . Great Britain: Open University Press.

From Bow Valley College Library

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10 Sociology Topics to Research

Dec 07, 2022

Sociology is one of the most commonly chosen majors by college students year after year. What is sociology ? It is the social science that deals with the study of social life, change, causes, and consequences of human behavior. There’s no denying the inevitable pull of sociology research. According to Lou Corsino , professor of sociology and chair of the Department of Sociology and Anthropology at North Central College, “Anywhere that two people or two groups interact, that’s sociology.” In other words, anytime we ask ourselves why one person said or did something to another, we’re doing the work of sociological research.

While everyone is an amateur sociologist in some form, however, informally chatting about human interactions is a lot easier than compiling ideas into a research paper or a dissertation. If you plan to study the subject, at some point, you will need to narrow your focus to one of many sociology topics. So what are research topics in this broad area of social science, and how can you choose what sociology research topic is best for you?

In this piece, we’ll examine the most common types of sociology research topics fall into, give you a sense of what research methods will help you find an area of focus, and step back to question why research into human behavior is so vital to us. Hopefully, this will help match student to the topic in a way to make your research smoother.

What are topics in sociology?

Much like the nature of social interaction itself, sociology covers a lot of ground, and thus there is no shortage of interesting sociology research topics. Depending on where you study and with whom, a sociological study can include a lot of different ideas.

The key is to examine how people’s lives intersect with one another. Anywhere people cross over and engage in common practice, customs, rituals, or simply the building blocks of society like commerce, government, and essential services, there is a good sociology research topic to be found.

Writing for Owlcation , sociologist Brittany Kennedy uses a helpful model that runs the spectrum of those interactions and creates a list with a round number of 10 that is easy to remember and logically inclusive. Let’s look at those broad areas and break down what some more specific ideas could be within each of them.

1. Race, Nationality, and Ethnicity

The process by which humans identify and group themselves is a key component of how we think and treat one another. These ideas are particularly critical in our world right now, as long-held assumptions about these ideas are being tested and reshaped almost daily. Exploring these areas could include defining the difference between race and ethnicity, delving into the concept of patriotism, looking at how immigrant cultures influence and become part of a population over time, differing views of national identity from country to country, and more.

2. Mass Media

For generations, we have been gripped by newspapers, magazines, radio, film, television, the Internet, and other forms of media and influenced by what we read, hear and see from these sources of information. And for close to two decades now, social media has become extremely powerful in its capacity both to make the world smaller and potentially drive us further apart. You could study how various people or groups are represented in the mass media, the civility or lack thereof in media discourse, the balance between journalism and entertainment, the nature of celebrity, and how it’s constructed by the mass media, among other ideas.

3. Youth Cultures

Every passing generation tends to obsess with youth culture as they struggle to come to terms with teenagers and young adults and how the young people in a culture construct their own distinct social network. There are great ideas caught up within youth culture because it’s a world unto itself—you can do fascinating work looking at how youths engage with the media, define sexuality, construct social class, engage in social movements, set trends in consumer culture, evolving social behavior, and look for help and support with growing up.

4. Sociology of Gender and Sexuality

An ever more complicated area of study, the gulf between men and women remains a fixation in the sociological study even as issues of homosexuality, queerness, and transsexuality bring infinite new dimensions to the subject of self-definition. You could look into issues of gender inequality in the workplace, culture, politics, media, and athletics, as well as medical and financial implications of gender and sexuality, the use of language around gender and sex, subsets of media related to particular areas of gender and sexual identity, and medical sociology research topics around how physicality relates to gender and sexuality.

5. Social Movements

Anytime social issues rise to the level of activism and organized activity, a social movement is created that is a ripe source for study. For lack of a better term, studying social movements involves choosing an “-ism” or an “-anti” and applying social research to it—feminism, socialism, classicism, racism, environmentalism, anti-hate movements, anti-vaccination supporters, and so on.

6. Cults, Clans, and Communities

There is a lot to be learned from studying how people group themselves according to common beliefs. That includes studies of prominent world religions like Catholicism, Islam, Judaism, Hinduism; cults like the Manson family, Heaven’s Gate, and the People’s Temple; belief-affiliated hate groups such as the Ku Klux Klan, Nation of Islam and Westboro Baptist Church; and fraternal orders like the Freemasons, the Elks, and the Moose. These groups have tremendous influence and the potential to create meaningful social change as well as do serious damage to societal order and civil liberty. As such, dissecting why people join these groups and how they behave is a critical venture.

Find out more about North Central College's sociology program

7. Class Conflict and Inequalities

The intersection of classes and how we organize each social structure around “haves and have-nots” is one of the most pressing sociological issues. You can do research on the definition and effects of poverty, differences in the impact of taxation, how race and ethnicity are tied to income inequality, differing levels of education and how they divide people, wealth and its impact on political affiliation, and much more under the umbrella of social class.

8. Spirituality, Superstition, and Legends

Though it can often be dismissed as an area just on the fringes of society, belief and investment in myths are a foundational aspect of any society. You can study historical ideas of myth and legend, like pantheons of gods in the ancient world, fairy tales and tall tales, and origin myths, or you can explore dynamics of the world today, like conspiracy theories, life on other planets, and the culture around monster and creature sightings.

9. Consumerism

An area where you can find relatively easy sociology research topics is consumer culture because the artifacts are readily available in stores and on websites, and the research is published in numerous places in the form of sales figures. You can study societal issues around buying art and antiques, intellectual property like music and likeness rights, fine dining and food and wine culture, collecting as a hobby and way of grouping people, and even media and sports fandom and how people spend their money on it.

10. The Family

Last but not least is the closest topic to each of us—how we get along with relatives. There is a multitude of interesting directions to studying the family , including conflicting approaches to raising children, the effects of divorce and single parents on families, non-traditional family life, how race and ethnicity plays into the family dynamic, and much more.

How do I choose a topic?

David Kidwell wrote on EduBirdie about how a student can choose a topic for a sociology paper or project and presented some good basics to start with. He said, “Choosing a good topic for your sociology research should clearly outline a problem or make an argument that you want to make … Avoid too general or vague statements that can be read or understood differently. The trick is to come up with those sociology topics that inspire you and help your readers to find the solutions.”

When asked how he advises his students with the first step in their research, Corsino said, “Perhaps the best advice I give students is that the various mysteries that beguile sociology cover such a broad range of topics that students can always find something interesting to study on their own or work together with a faculty (member). This is the beauty of sociological thought.”

In other words, sociology is everywhere and in everything we do, so let your own natural curiosity guide you into the research methods of sociology . Don’t think about a grade or what will be simplest—think about a part of social interaction or human interactions you would genuinely like to know more about and dive into it.

Why do we study sociology?

Ultimately, as interesting as sociology might seem, you’ll want to look at why you’re getting involved and what the benefits are.

Corsino likens sociology to unraveling important puzzles the right way—taking it step by step and savoring the process.

“I like to think about research as detective work,” he said. “There is something to be discovered or uncovered. And there are clues along the way in terms of various types of data. In the end, one tries to solve the mystery, as best we can by drawing reasonable conclusions. It takes work , but it is exciting when it comes together.”

If you need to think about it more concretely than that, Rubayet Al Sami provided another list for you to think about on Study Connexion —10 great things you can accomplish that are reasons to study sociology:

Broaden your skillset and make yourself more likely to find a career.
Detect and solve social problems.
Learn about planning and development of businesses and municipalities.
Understand society from a scientific perspective.
Discover the role of institutions in the development of individuals.
Figure out how to preserve and grow your own culture.
Find a great complement to other majors that will increase your potential to learn.
Broaden your outlook by examining differing perspectives.
Gain a greater insight into international relations by looking at how their people interact.
Examine your own outlook and motivations to find what matters most to you.

Looking to get into sociology and choose one of the areas of research we mentioned? Be sure to look for a school like North Central College that offers a challenging, intriguing sociology curriculum with plenty of opportunities to enhance your education, like a minor in Chicago Area Studies, completing Community Engaged Learning projects, and enhancing your research with a prestigious Richter Grant.

Find out more about North Central College today.

Jacob Imm is the associate director of communication in the North Central College Office of Marketing and Communications. He has 12 years of collegiate communications experience and has worked with hundreds of college students. He has a bachelor’s degree from the University of Notre Dame and a master’s degree from Northern Illinois University.

Brittany Kennedy, Owlcation. https://owlcation.com/social-sciences/Great-Sociology-Research-Topics .

David Kidwell, EduBirdie. https://edubirdie.com/blog/70-sociology-research-topics .

Rubayet Al Sami, Study Connexion. https://studyconnexion.com/reasons-to-study-sociology/ .

Sociology Program, North Central College. https://www.northcentralcollege.edu/program/sociology .

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SOCIOL 495S: Sociology Honors Thesis Seminar

Getting Started
Writing Your Literature Review
Finding Articles
Finding General Data
Finding Subject Specific Data
Software Resources
Citing Sources

What is a Literature Review?

A literature review is a “critical analysis of a segment of a published body of knowledge through summary, classification, and comparison of prior research studies, reviews of literature, and theoretical articles” (University of Wisconsin Writing Center).

Do not confuse a literature review with an annotated bibliography.

Information for this page is taken from the Thompson Writing Program .

The introduction should explain why you are writing the review (“so what/who cares?”) and make some central claims about the current state of the literature (e.g. trends, debates, gaps, etc.).
Organize the body of the paper by common denominators among sources, such as methodologies, conclusions, philosophical approaches, or possibly chronology (assuming topical subsections)
The conclusion should summarize significant contributions to the field, situate the reviewed literature in the larger context of the discipline, point out flaws or gaps in the research, and/or suggest future areas of study.

Lit Review Process

Literature Review Tutorial

Questions to Ask

How are sources similar in terms of methodologies, philosophies, claims, choice and interpretation of evidence, reliability, etc.?
How do they differ?
Do you observe gaps in the research or areas that require further study?
Do particular issues or problems stand out?
Do you want to compare texts in general or hone in on a specific issue or question?
Determine your purpose.Understanding the purpose and expectations of the prompt will help you place appropriate emphasis on analysis or summary.
Keep track of sources by writing a brief summary for each.
Consider making a table or chart to map how different sources relate to/contrast with one another.
Consider the significance of each work to the field. The amount of space you dedicate to an individual source denotes its significance within the body of literature.
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What is a literature review?

How do i write one, for more information.

The American Sociological Association Style Guide can be found on the first floor at REF HM 569 .A54 2019.

For a brief introduction to ASA, click here .

A literature review is used to show that you have read, evaluated, and comprehended the published research on a particular topic. A literature review is structured to show to your professors that you understand the work that has been done in the past on a topic, and will serve as a jumping off point for whatever research you are conducting. It can either be a stand-alone document, or a section at the beginning of a research paper, master’s thesis, special project, or report. Writing a literature review will require you to locate published research on a topic, read those materials, and write a description and evaluation of the works.

STEP ONE: What is your topic?

What is your research project? You really can’t begin to write a literature review until you have determined what your own research is about. Determine the problem and the population you are studying.

STEP TWO: Time to visit the library!

Search SouthernSearch and relevant online databases, such as SocIndex and JSTOR, to locate previously published research on your subject. This will involve finding books, journal articles, dissertations and theses, and possibly reports from governmental agencies or independent organizations.

STEP THREE: Read and think!

Read and critically evaluate each item that you have located. What are the researcher’s credentials? What kind of methodology was used? Do you find the research to be objective? Do you find the conclusions persuasive? How does the research contribute to your understanding of the issue that you are researching? Are the researchers saying the same things, or are they coming to different conclusions? What are the relationships between the articles? What has been said, and what has not been said? What are some areas for future research?

STEP FOUR: Start writing!

You may want to sort the materials you have read based on their different themes, theoretical foundations, or varying conclusions. Then, for each article, describe the research that was done and the conclusions of the authors. Discuss how that particular work contributes to the understanding of the subject that you are working on.

Conducting Research Literature Reviews: From the Internet to Paper REF Q 180.55 .M4 F56 2005

Doing a Literature Review: Releasing the Social Science Research Imagination STACKS H 62 .H2566 1998

Preparing Literature Reviews: Qualitative and Quantitative Approaches STACKS Q 180.55 .E9 P36 2008

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Sociology and Interdisciplinary Social Sciences

Choosing a Topic
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Literature Reviews

Encyclopedias - Online
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Many assignments require you to write a literature review, a qualitative analysis of writings on your chosen topic up to this point. While writing literature reviews can be challenging, the process also helps you hone and distinguish your topic.

Here is a very simplified guide to writing a literature review:

Use a citation manager to organize your research. Full information on citation managers offered through the SJSU Library can be found on our citation managers guide .
Establish your topic or research inquiry (see Choosing a Topic).
Search our databases on your topic, saving and pinning articles in a citation manager as you find them. During your search, you will discover whether your topic is too broad or too narrow. If possible, limit search results on your topic to 50-100 articles. If necessary, go back and forth between step 1 and step 2 until you find your footing.
Unpin articles unrelated to your newly-honed topic. Find those that are related and save, browse, or read them.
Identify a theme as a way to summarize and analyze the resources you've found. Do they tell a chronological story? Are there subtopics they all address or partially address? Do they have similar or different methodologies? Are there gaps in the literature?
Create an outline based on the theme you have discovered. Read and save articles according to your outline.
Write your literature review.
Remember to cite all your sources, both within the text and at the end of your paper.
Optional: In the conclusion of your literature review, identify what has not been discussed in the literature yet. This is a set-up for your own topic.

Other Resources for Literature Reviews

Writing a Literature Review Paper Short video from King Library for SJSU students
Video: An Overview of Literature Reviews More detailed video tutorial on literature reviews
How to Write a Literature Review by Denney, A., & Tewksbury, R. (2012) This article is intended to provide both undergraduate and graduate students in the criminal justice field specifically, and social sciences more generally, skills and perspectives on how to develop and/or strengthen their skills in writing a literature review

Visual Sociology

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What is a literature review?

A literature review is an explanation of what has been published on a subject by recognized researchers. Occasionally you will be asked to write one as a separate assignment (sometimes in the form of an annotated bibliography, but more often it is part of the introduction to a research report, essay, thesis or dissertation.) Critical literature reviews help to write your literature review more effectively: A literature review must do these things: a. be organized around and related directly to the thesis or research question you are developing b. synthesize results into a summary of what is and is not known c. identify areas of controversy in the literature d. formulate questions that need further research Before writing literature review ask yourself questions like these:

1. What is the specific thesis, problem, or research question that my review of literature helps to define?

2. What type of literature review am I conducting? Am I looking at issues of theory? methodology? policy? quantitative research (e.g. on the effectiveness of a new procedure)? qualitative research (e.g., studies )?

3. What is the scope of my literature review? What types of publications am I using (e.g., journals, books, government documents, popular media)? What discipline am I working in (e.g., management , organizational behavior,

marketing)?

4. How good was my information seeking? Has my search been wide enough to ensure I've found all the relevant material? Has it been narrow enough to exclude irrelevant material? Is the number of sources I've used appropriate for the length of my paper?

5. Have I critically analyzed the literature I use? Do I follow through a set of concepts and questions, comparing items to each other in the ways they deal with them? Instead of just listing and summarizing items, do I assess them, discussing strengths and weaknesses?

6. Have I cited and discussed studies contrary to my perspective?

7. Will the reader find my literature review relevant, appropriate, and useful?

Tips on writing a literature review (Hart 1998)

Lit Review Tips

Search for the most recent articles that deal with your topic; many of them will summarize the prior literature in the area, saving you valuable time. Remember to attribute even if you paraphrase!

Literature reviews can be overwhelming. You can't find everything. Just find the literature that gets discussed the most or is most relevant to your topic.

The goal of the literature review is to show that you understand the 'bigger picture' and can put your research and recommendations in context of others working in the field.

Need help writing a literature review?

Writing Literature Reviews : A Guide for Students of the Social and Behavioral Sciences by Jose L. Galvan.

Library North 2nd floor

H 61.8 G34 2014

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The Best Sociology Dissertation Topics

Published by Alvin Nicolas at January 10th, 2023 , Revised On June 10, 2024

Sociology is the study of society, social patterns, social relationships, etc. Essentially, it studies how human society functions and operates. Sociology also examines the process of human interaction, how it is preserved, and what causes it to evolve. As a sociology student, you will gain in-depth knowledge and understanding regarding human interactions and social relationships. Still, you will also learn about crime, social classes, religions, cultures, and more.

As part of your degree programme, you may have to submit a dissertation. The topic that you choose for your sociology dissertation should be trending and relevant. It should discuss an issue that is prevailing in society.

To help you get started with brainstorming for sociology topic ideas, we have developed a list of the latest topics that can be used for writing your history dissertation.

These topics have been developed by PhD qualified writers on our team , so you can trust to use them for drafting your dissertation.

You may also want to start your dissertation by requesting a brief research proposal from our writers on any of these topics, which includes an introduction to the topic, research question , aim and objectives , a literature review along with the proposed methodology of research to be conducted. Let us know if you need any help getting started.

Check our dissertation examples to get an idea of how to structure your dissertation .

Review the full list of dissertation topics here.

List of Top Sociology Dissertation Topics

Current Social Perceptions of the Affirmative Action and Its Effect on Diversity
The Impact of Socioeconomic Background on Access to Technology
An Analysis of Confirmatory Biases on Fake News
How Changing Demographics Are Reshaping Social Structures
A Sociological Analysis of the Impact of the Sharing Economy on Consumerism and Social Interaction
An Analysis of the Changing Face of Work-Life Balance
The Impact of Applying Sorokin’s Sociology Theory and Religious Activism
The Link Between a Teacher’s Motivation and the Academic Performance of Students in Public Schools.
How the Rise of Social Media Influencers Has Reshaped Social Identity
The Role of Marketisation in Reshaping Higher Learning
The Evolving Relationship Between Humans and Pets
The Impact of Education Policy on Social Stratification and Inequality

Sociology Dissertation Topics For Your Research

Topic 1: the sociology of new work from home employment model- an exploratory analysis determining the sociological effects of work from home during covid-19 in the uk.

Research Aim: This research aims to determine the sociological effects of the new work from home (WFH) employment model adopted by organisations during COVID-19 in the UK. It will identify how WFH affected the social and personal lives of employees. Moreover, it will see how these sociological effects translated into their work efficacy. And whether organisations are aware of these effects and what were their human resource (HR) policies to improve their employees’ social lives?

Topic 2: What are the Sociological Determinants of the Gender Pay Gap in Western Society? A Case Study of Multinational Corporations in the USA, UK, Canada, and Germany

Research Aim: This study will find the sociological determinants of the gender pay gap in Western society. It will assess the individuals working in multinational organisations in the USA, UK, Canada, and Germany to see whether their cultures, norms, and traditions impact gender pay in these countries. Furthermore, how do these organisations address the issue of the gender pay gap and their findings on this issue?

Topic 3: Is it Bad to be a Transgender in South Asia? Impact of Transgender Stigmatisation on the Transgender Suicide Rate in the India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh

Research Aim: This research will analyse the impact of transgender stigmatisation on the transgender suicide rate in South Asia. It will assess India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh as case studies to find out how being a transgender person there and how does it affect their lives and what social factors force them to commit suicide. Moreover, it will identify the steps taken by their local governments to make society more transgender-inclusive and what difference these policies made in the lives of transgender people.

Topic 4: Does Religion Act Differently in Rural and Urban Settings? A Study to Find the Differential Effects of Islam on the Social Fabric of Rural and Urban Societies in Pakistan

Research Aim: This study will find the differential effects of Islam on the social fabric of rural and urban societies in Pakistan. It will determine the factors such as education level, general awareness, usage of technology, etc., that make a difference in how individuals follow religion in Pakistan’s rural and urban settings. Moreover, it will show how these factors play a mediating role between religion and the social fabric of rural and urban societies in Pakistan.

Topic 5: A Critical Examination of Religious Institutions in the UK and their Influence on Social Structure

Research Aim: This research intends to critically examine the role of religious institutions in shaping social structures in the UK. It will identify the channels through which these religious institutions affect individuals, transforming their social networks through changes in their family structures, parenting, religious beliefs, etc. Moreover, it will identify which religion has more effect on the lives of individuals in the UK and whether it is affecting their social and professional lives as well

COVID-19 Sociology Research Topics

Topic 1: the effects of coronavirus on sociology.

Research Aim: The sociological aspects of societies the during coronavirus pandemic. The study will highlight all elements thoroughly.

Topic 2: Sociological opportunities and resources during COVID-19

Research Aim: This study will review the sociological opportunities and resources during COVID-19

Topic 3: Global Sociology and COVID-19

Research Aim: This study will highlight the challenges faced by global sociologist and their contribution to combatting COVID-19.

Topic 4: COVID-19 and the future of society

Research Aim: This study will assess the current situations and damages caused due to COVID-19 and predict society’s future after COVID-19 associating it with social distancing and fears created by the pandemic.

Topic 2: Types of discrimination in workplaces

Research Aim: This research aims to study discrimination in workplaces and suggest possible ways to solve it.

Topic 3: Dress codes and their impact on equality

Research Aim: This research aims to address the issues relevant to the imposition of dress codes in workplaces and institutions. It will also identify how far the dress code ensures equality among the staff and what issues and challenges people face due to their religious and cultural backgrounds.

Topic 4: Old-age homes Vs. orphanages

Research Aim: This study will conduct a comparative study on old age homes and orphanages, suggest innovative solutions to improve their conditions and introduce various activities to provide them with a healthy and productive environment.

Topic 2: Is terrorism a social construct?

Research Aim: The research paper will use document analysis as the research technique to identify the extent to which terrorism is socially constructed. The paper will analyse the varying definitions of terrorism and the difficulties that surround them. It will examine events that are labelled terrorist acts based on traditional, legal, and academic definitions.

Topic 3: Analysing the perceptions and responses to female child sex offenders

Research Aim: The research will use qualitative research techniques to understand and explain the perceptions of female child sex offenders and responses to such in the criminal justice system, the media, the public, and social welfare professionals. The purpose of the research will be to bring to the forefront a different perspective from which to analyse expectations towards gender and its effect on gender’s criminological representations.

Topic 4: Stratification in labour markets of the UK after the Great Recession 2007-2009

Research Aim: Using quantitative techniques as a research method, the study will use theories and techniques used for understanding patterns and sources of income inequality to investigate employment inequality. The Great Recession’s consequences of employment inequality will be analysed using race, ethnicity, and gender.

Topic 5: Athletic Privilege & Lack of Conviction

Research Aim: This research will analyse the arrest and conviction of athletes in sexual assault cases between athletes and non-athletes from 200 to 2017. There is a great lack of study on sexual assault arrest and conviction rates among male collegiate and professional athletes. The study will determine if and why athletes receive privileged treatment by the criminal justice system, specifically when accused of felony sexual assault against women.

Topic 6: Predisposition of America’s law enforcement towards racial stereotyping, discrimination, and profiling.

Research Aim: The study will examine law enforcement officers in the United States and the reasons why there is rampant racial bias against African Americans. There has been a surge of police brutality against African American citizens, making it imperative to examine the reasons behind the surge to improve police and community relationships.

Topic 7: The religious perspective of the role and importance of women in modern society: Islam versus Christianity

Research Aim: The main purpose of this study is to identify the roles and importance of women in the modern world while taking a religious perspective. In this study, the researcher will identify the role of women while focusing on the role of women in Islam and how it differs from the role of women in Christianity.

Topic 8: Assessing the impact of cultural differences on organisational communication in MNC’s: a preaching academic and religious knowledge case study of developed countries.

Research Aim: This study will identify the importance of communication in MNCs and the influence of cultural differences that may hinder or increase the level of effective communication within multinational organisations. The researcher will identify major cultural barriers and their relationship with communication within multinational organisations of developed countries.

Topic 9: To explore the significance of having a strong association between religious teaching and academic teaching

Research Aim: The main purpose of the research will be to identify the importance of preaching academic and religious knowledge to students while focusing on the major challenges that teachers can face when combining these two approaches.

Sociology of Gender Dissertation Topics

This has become one of the most prominent areas of sociology in recent times. Over the past five to six decades, an increasing part of public discourse and academic literature has been dedicated to gender equality. However, most of the work in this area of sociology has been done with reference to underdeveloped countries where complex gender issues prevail in societies. Some interesting topics in this area of sociology are suggested below for you to base your dissertation on.

Topic 1: Investigating changing gender roles in society and the effect of media

Research Aim: This research will talk about the changing gender roles in society and evaluate the role of media.

Topic 2: To study the reasons as to why women have been historically excluded from education

Research Aim: This study will talk about the various reasons why women have been excluded from education over the past years.

Topic 3: Studying gender policies in large and diversified multinational companies in the UK with a focus on the role of those policies in eliminating gender discrimination in the workplace

Research Aim: This research will help understand the gender issues in MNCs and will also evaluate the role of gender discrimination policies in workplaces.

Topic 4: To investigate the possible social aspects that could affect societal gender relationships

Research Aim: This research will help evaluate the role of social aspects that impact societal gender relationships.

Topic 5: To study the possible reasons why the role of females in society is influenced by the power politics of a society

Research Aim: This research will help in understanding the reasons why power politics influence females in society.

Topic 6: Do women in developing countries have a greater role to play in income-generating business activities?

Research Aim: This research will focus on women’s work in developing countries. It will evaluate whether they have a more significant role in generating income through different business activities.

Topic 7: The impact of religion in determining the optimum role of females in a society

Research Aim: This research will help evaluate the impact of religion in determining females’ best role in society.

Topic 8: Investigating possible reasons as to why women are discriminated against at work

Research Aim: This research will help investigate the various reasons why women are discriminated against at different workplaces.

Topic 9: To study societal behaviour that shapes gender relations

Research Aim: This research will help study social behaviour, which helps develop gender relations.

Topic 10: Analysing the increasing participation of women in politics and its impact on society

Research Aim: This research will help analyse the increasing participation of women in politics and its impact on society.

How Can ResearchProspect Help?

ResearchProspect writers can send several custom topic ideas to your email address. Once you have chosen a topic that suits your needs and interests, you can order for our dissertation outline service which will include a brief introduction to the topic, research questions , literature review , methodology , expected results , and conclusion . The dissertation outline will enable you to review the quality of our work before placing the order for our full dissertation writing service !

Industrial Sociology Dissertation Topics

Industrial Sociology can be defined as the study of behaviours and motivations of employees in a work environment. Most descriptions in this sociology area are anthropological as if an external observer is commenting on the office’s social environment. Some topics are suggested below if you intend to base your dissertation on this sub-field of sociology .

Topic 1: Studying the most critical aspect of modern industrial societies in the UK

Research Aim: This research will focus on the most essential and critical aspects of modern industrial societies in the UK.

Topic 2: Do societal beliefs and values really influence the role of corporate social responsibility?

Research Aim: This study will talk about various beliefs and values that impact corporate social responsibility.

Topic 3: The sociology of work: From industrial sociology to work, employment and the economy

Research Aim: This research will aim to investigate the sociology of work, i.e. industrial sociology, employment, an+d economy,

Topic 4: Organisational goals or social requirements – what should a worker-supervisor relationship bias be based on?

Research Aim: This research will aim to understand organisational goals or social requirements. The focus of the study will be to study the worker-supervisor relationship.

Topic 5: To investigate the social dimensions of communication in a large and diversified business organisation

Research Aim: This study will investigate the social dimensions of communication in a large and diversified business organisation.

Topic 6: To establish and critically analyse the relationship between work productivity and motivation

Research Aim: This research will talk about the relationship between productivity and motivation. The ties will be critically analysed.

Topic 7: How is society responding to automation in workplaces on workers?

Research Aim: This research will study the impact automation at workplaces has on employees.

Topic 8: To study strategies to ensure the management of cultural diversity and cultural harmony in an organisation

Research Aim: This research will study strategies implemented to manage cultural diversity and harmony in workplaces.

Topic 9: How can fluctuating trends influence employees' social well-being in the role of trade unions?

Research Aim: This research will investigate how employees’ social well-being is impacted by fluctuating trends in the role of trade unions.

Topic 10: To critically analyse the social structure of a multinational firm operating in the UK

Research Aim: This research will analyse the social structure of a multinational operating in the UK.

Economic Sociology Dissertation Topics

Economic sociology can precisely be described as studying the social cause and effect of various economic phenomena. This sub-field of sociology is further divided into a “contemporary” period and a “classical” one.

Economic sociology views the economy as a social institute that deals with the consumption, production, and distribution of products and services. Below are suggested some intriguing economic sociology dissertation topics for you to base your dissertation on:

Topic 1: To investigate the intra-household economic relationships of UK families with a particular focus on ethnic groups

Research Aim: This research will investigate UK families’ intra-household economic relationships. The study will focus on ethnic groups in these families.

Topic 2: To investigate the potentially detrimental effects of the recent economic slump in the social status of members from the secondary labour market

Research Aim: This study will aim to understand the detrimental impacts of the recent economic slump on secondary labourers’ social status.

Topic 3: To identify and study the most prominent sociological dimensions of socio-economic development

Research Aim: This research will identify and study the most prominent sociological dimensions of socio-economic development.

Topic 4: Can socio-economic development be ensured through an informal economy?

Research Aim: This study will explore whether socio-economic development is ensured through the informal economy

Topic 5: To determine whether the communism model can succeed in the UK society

Research Aim: This study will find out whether the communist model in the UK can succeed or not.

Topic 6: To critically review communism and capitalism economic models

Research Aim: This study will critically examine and review the economic models of communism and capitalism.

Topic 7: To study the extent to which international labour migration is affecting the UK’s society

Research Aim: This study will analyse the extent to which international labour migration impacts UK society.

Topic 8: To investigate the economy of the UK in terms of Marx’s criticism of capitalism

Research Aim: This study will investigate the UK economy to view Marx’s capitalism criticism.

Topic 9: Exploring the fundamental principles of economic sociology

Research Aim: This research will explore and examine economic sociology’s fundamental principles.

Topic 10: A critical analysis on the role of gender in the economy of the UK

Research Aim: This research will critically analyse gender roles in the UK economy.

Political Sociology Dissertation Topics

Political sociology primarily deals with the relationship between states and societies. This sub-field of sociology further considers power politics, political conflicts, and micro and macro components of sociology and political science. Here are some intriguing topics about political sociology.

Topic 1: A critical review of the concept of political sociology related to direct democracy

Research Aim: This research will deal with the concept of political sociology concerning direct democracy.

Topic 2: E-governance and the politics of identification: Unique identities, citizenship, and state in contemporary India

Research Aim: This research will discuss a relatively new concept, i.e. e-governance for politics of identification. The main focus of this dissertation will be exploring unique identities, states, and citizenship in India.

Topic 3: Analysing elite theory in political sociology

Research Aim: Elite theory explores power relationships in contemporary society. This research will analyse this critical theory of political sociology.

Topic 4: Evaluating the role of social forces in power politics in the UK

Research Aim: This research will discuss and evaluate social forces’ role in power politics in the United Kingdom.

Topic 5: To determine the extent to which the democratic political model can influence a capitalist society

Research Aim: This research will aim to determine the extent to which a democratic political model can impact a capitalist society.

Topic 6: To study and compare rational-legal and leadership models with respect to the British society

Research Aim: This research will compare relational-legal and various leadership models of British society.

Topic 7: The importance and influence of ethnic minorities in British power politics Ethnic minorities hold huge power in British politics.

Research Aim: This research will explore the importance and influence of all such ethnic minorities in Britain.

Topic 8: Assessing modern politics and the role of globalisation

Research Aim: This research will talk about globalisation and how it impacts and influences modern politics.

Topic 9: Examining the British welfare state system: How does it impact individuals

Research Aim: This research will study and examine the British welfare state system. Furthermore, the study will also learn how this system impacts individuals.

Topic 10: A critical analysis of the Islamic welfare state system

Research Aim: This research will explore the Islamic welfare state system, how it operates, and its impact on society.

Also Read: Psychology Dissertation Topics

Sociology of Culture Dissertation Topics

Cultural sociology is an exciting area of sociology. The cultural norms, beliefs, values, and material and non-material aspects of culture are discussed in detail under this sociology sub-field. Here are some interesting cultural sociology dissertation topics you can choose from:

Topic 1: To study the validity and application of Marx’s conflict theory in British society

Research Aim: This research will discuss the conflict theory presented by Marx and examine its validity and application in British Society.

Topic 2: Investigating how the British native beliefs, norms and values have been influenced by cultural invasion from immigrants

Research Aim: This research will understand how immigrants influence British native beliefs, norms, and values.

Topic 3: Identifying and analysing the scope and dimensions of cultural shock an Asian foreigner can expect to face in the UK

Research Aim: This research will assess and examine how an Asian foreigner can sustain a cultural shock in the UK.

Topic 4: Are there any cultural lags in British society – A literature review from the past 10 years?

Research Aim: This will be an exciting study as it will explore cultural lags in British society—all the evidence from the past ten years assessed under this topic.

Topic 5: Importance of social interactions among cultures – Exploring the good and bad aspects of social interaction among sub-cultures in British society

Research Aim: This research will discuss the various social interactions among different cultures and explore the good and bad social interaction factors among subcultures in British society.

Topic 6: To critically analyse various subcultures in the UK with reference to geography

Research Aim: This research will analyse the different subcultures operating and living in the US regarding geography.

Topic 7: Evaluating the fluctuating principles of counterculture in Britain

Research Aim: This research will help us understand the principles of counterculture in the United States.

Topic 8: Comparing norms and values of modern British society to the culture 20 years ago

Research Aim: This will be a comparative study. The dissertation will compare and contrast the norms and values of modern British society with that of the culture prevalent 20 years ago.

Topic 9: To what extent has the popular culture of the UK transformed over the last few decades?

Research Aim: This research will understand how popular UK culture has changed over the past few years.

Topic 10: Examining culture and globalisation from the perspective of sociology

Research Aim: This research will assess and examine culture and globalisation from the perspective of sociology.

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Education Sociology Dissertation Topics

The sociology of education can be described as how individual experiences and educational institutions can affect education and its outcomes. This sociology area primarily deals with the schooling systems with a focus on adult, higher, and continuing education. Some interesting topics in this field of sociology are suggested below:

Topic 1: Examining the causes of education restriction of females in developing countries

Research Aim: This research will assess and evaluate the underlying causes that restrict females from gaining an education in developing countries.

Topic 2: To investigate the relationship between student performance and teacher behaviour – A study of the hurdles while acquiring education

Research Aim: This research will understand the relationship between student performance and teacher behaviour. The study’s primary focus will be to understand the hurdles that students come across while acquiring education.

Topic 3: A comparison of the facilities provided in private and public sector schools

Research Aim: This research will compare and contrast the facilities provided by private schools to public schools.

Topic 4: A historical review of sociology policies employed by the UK following the Second World War

Research Aim: This research will be a historical review that will study the UK’s policies following the Second World War.

Topic 5: Assessing the extent to which the education structure in the UK has changed due to the social exclusion of youth in educational institutes

Research Aim: This research will study the extent to which the UK’s education structure has changed due to the social exclusion of youth in educational institutes.

Topic 6: Evaluating the importance of social supervision and support in British elementary schools

Research Aim: This research will assess and evaluate the importance of social supervision and support in British elementary schools.

Topic 7: The impact of school background on how children perceive the society

Research Aim: This research will focus on a critical issue, i.e. the impact of school education and background and how it shapes a child’s perception of their society.

Topic 8: The role of British education curriculum in terms of economic and sociological result

Research Aim: This research will understand the British curriculum’s role concerning economic and sociological results.

Topic 9: Investigating the extent to which the UK’s public schools and colleges have been able to establish inter-faith associations among pupils

Research Aim: This research will evaluate the extent to which UK public schools and colleges establish inter-faith associations among students.

Topic 10: Examining the UK’s public school system to identify probable opportunities through which the education gap can be reduced for neglected groups

Research Aim: This research will investigate an important issue, i.e. identify gaps that can be worked on and reduced to include and provide education to neglected groups.

Sociology of Religion Dissertation Topics

The sociology of religion considers religious values and practices concerning sociological theories and methods. Issues covered by this area of sociology include but are not limited to the effect of religion on society and the impact of various social elements such as politics, media, and social interaction on religion.

Contemporary issues such as the role of stereotyping, inequality, and gender in religion will be discussed under the sociology of religion. Here are some interesting topics in this subfield of sociology

Topic 1: To establish the relationship between UK’s educational institutes and religion

Research Aim: This research will discuss the relationship between religion and educational institutes operating in the UK.

Topic 2: The role of religions in marriages in the UK

Research Aim: This research will discuss various religions and their relationship with marriages in the UK.

Topic 3: To determine whether religion plays a role in UK power politics

Research Aim: This research will aim to determine whether religion plays a role in UK power politics or not.

Topic 4: Exploring religious guidelines to help counsel social aspects

Research Aim: This research will outline religious guidelines and regulations that help counsel and direct social aspects in the right direction. Social aspects that will be explored include education, economics and gender.

Topic 5: Limitations that influence society as a single individual or as a whole

Research Aim: This research will aim to discuss the limitations that impact society as a whole as well as individuals.

Topic 6: Assessing the extent to which religious beliefs influence political behaviour in the UK

Research Aim: This research will examine how religious beliefs influence political behaviour in the UK.

Topic 7: Assessing the impact of religious organisations on British social culture

Research Aim: This research will understand how religious organisations impact the British social culture and how culture and religion are interrelated.

Topic 8: Examining the relationship between social change and religion

Research Aim: This research will study the relationship between religion and social change.

Topic 9: Religious diffusion results from social interaction between people from different religions – The case of the UK

Research Aim: This research will assess the various religious diffusion results from social interaction between people belonging to various religions in the UK

Topic 10: Comparing cross-religious values and theories in British society

Research Aim: This will be comparative research based on cross-religious values and theories in British society.

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Comparative Sociology Dissertation Topics

This area of sociology mainly deals with different models of civilisation, including state capitalism, welfare capitalism, socialism, capitalism, and communism. It further incorporates comparisons of social problems such as gender, ethnicity, and race and the comparisons of social institutions such as economy, religion, health, family, and education. Some interesting dissertation topics are suggested below.

Topic 1: Similarities and differences between a welfare state and a capitalist state

Research Aim: This research will explore the differences and similarities between a capitalist and a welfare state.

Topic 2: A comparison of the totalitarian system vs democracy in terms of social progress

Research Aim: This will be a comparative study between the totalitarian system and democracy concerning social progress.

Topic 3: To compare the education systems of America and Britain – How are these systems playing a key role in influencing societal standards?

Research Aim: This research will compare Britain’s and America’s educational systems and assess how they are influencing societal standards.

Topic 4: To identify and discuss the similarities and differences between the British and American labour markets

Research Aim: This research will assess the similarities and differences between the American and British labour markets.

Topic 5: Cultural diffusion and immigration – Has the UK been able to preserve its culture over the last few decades?

Research Aim: This research will discuss whether or not the UK has preserved its culture despite immigration and cultural diffusion.

Topic 6: A Comparison of the family structure in Indian and UK societies

Research Aim: This research will compare the family structure of India with that of the UK.

Topic 7: Comparison of the effect of religion in determining Muslim society and Jewish society in the UK

Research Aim: This research will compare religion’s impact to help determine the Muslim and Jewish society in the UK.

Topic 8: Social inequalities associated with communism and capitalism

Research Aim: This research will examine the social inequalities that are associated with capitalism and communism.

Topic 9: To identify and critically analyse the pivotal gender issues in Chinese society and Russian society

Research Aim: This research will assess the various religious diffusion results from social interaction between people belonging to different religions in the UK

Topic 10: To compare marriage as a social institution in Britain and India

Research Aim: This study will compare marriage as a social institution in the UK and India

Sociology of Family and Marriage Dissertation Topics

Family and marriage systems of society are significant aspects of this type of sociology. The most prominent topics of discussion within the field of sociology of family and marriage systems include post-marriage social interactions, classes, and dynamics of marriage and associated rituals, marriage system, the impact of social change on families, external and internal social interaction of family, gender dynamics within a family and parent-child relationships. Here are some interesting dissertation topics related to this area:

Topic 1: Analysing the basic structure and size of the UK family from a historical perspective

Research Aim: This research will understand the basic size and structure of a UK family.

Topic 2: The Evolution of UK family structure over the years – A study of the periodic social change

Research Aim: This research will study the evolution of the UK family structure and examine periodic social change.

Topic 3: Examining the extent to which domestic violence in Britain has affected children

Research Aim: This study will assess the extent to which domestic violence in Britain has impacted children.

Topic 4: To determine the causes of increasing domestic violence in UK’s society

Research Aim: This research will help determine the underlying reasons for increasing domestic violence in the UK.

Topic 5: The impact of changing UK’s residential trends on the practices and beliefs of society

Research Aim: This study will examine the impact of changing UK residential trends based on society’s beliefs and practices.

Topic 6: Examining the causes of the increasing divorce rate in the UK

Research Aim: This research will understand the reasons for the increasing divorce rate in the UK.

Topic 7: Assessing the different parenting types and the impact it has on children

Research Aim : This research will discuss and understand the different types of parenting and the impact it has on children

Topic 8: To compare marriages in different subcultures of British society

Research Aim: This research will compare marriages in different sub-cultures of British society.

Topic 9: Assessing the gender roles in a family – Have they changed over the past five years?

Research Aim: This research will aim to understand why they have caused a change in the gender roles in a family.

Topic 10: Analysing the pros and cons of an extended family system and a nuclear family system

Research Aim: This research will aim to understand the benefits and drawbacks of an extended family system and a nuclear family system.

Sociology of Crimes Dissertation Topics

Sociology of criminology or crimes is another exciting area of sociology that investigates the causes, extent, and nature of crimes, focusing on control strategies at societal and individual levels. It should be noted that the term “Crime” is defined as any act that is a direct violation of state law.

Topic 1: Determining the probable causes of increasing street crimes in London

Research Aim: This research aims to understand why they have caused an increase in street crimes in London.

Topic 2: To establish the relationship between increasing domestic violence and alcohol consumption

Research Aim: This research will assess the relationship between increasing domestic violence and alcohol consumption.

Topic 3: Determining the reasons as to why stabbing crime in the UK has steadily increased and its implications for British society

Research Aim: This research will help understand the reasons behind the increasing rate of stabbings in the UK.

Topic 4: Is the UK government providing accurate crime statistics – A review of the crime data collection techniques employed in the UK?

Research Aim: This research will examine the data collection techniques employed by the UK government and will assess whether accurate crime statistics are provided or not.

Topic 5: Is there a link between street crimes and alcohol consumption?

Research Aim: This research will determine whether street crimes and alcohol consumption are related or not.

Topic 6: A Critical analysis of the evolution of criminological theories

Research Aim: This research will critically analyse the evolution of criminological theories.

Topic 7: To establish the relationship between criminal behaviour and personality type

Research Aim: This research will assess whether a relationship exists between criminal behaviour or different personality types.

Topic 8: The role of social inequality in increasing street crimes in the UK

Research Aim: This research will help us understand the role of social inequality concerning increasing street crimes in the UK.

Topic 9: To present avenues of crime prevention with a focus on alternatives to physical punishment

Research Aim: This research will discuss crime prevention with a particular focus on physical punishment alternatives.

Topic 10: A critical review of the UK government’s crime prevention strategies and policies – Are they delivering the desired outcomes?

Research Aim: This research will present a critical review of the various crime prevention strategies and whether they are delivering desirable results or not.

Important Notes:

As a student of sociology dissertation looking to get good grades, it is essential to develop new ideas and experiment with existing sociology dissertation theories – i.e., to add value and interest to your research topic.

The sociology dissertation field is vast and interrelated to so many other academic disciplines like human rights , philosophy , religion & theology and more. That is why it is imperative to create a sociology dissertation topic that is articular, sound, and solves a practical problem that may be rampant in the field.

We can’t stress how important it is to develop a logical research topic based on your fundamental research. There are several significant downfalls to getting your case wrong: your supervisor may not be interested in working on it, the topic has no academic creditability, the research may not make logical sense, and there is a possibility that the study is not viable.

This impacts your time and efforts in writing your dissertation as you may end up in a cycle of rejection at the very initial stage of the dissertation. That is why we recommend reviewing existing research to develop a topic, taking advice from your supervisor, and even asking for help in this particular stage of your dissertation.

Keeping our advice in mind while developing a research topic will allow you to pick one of the best sociology dissertation topics that fulfill your requirement of writing a research paper and add to the body of knowledge.

Therefore, it is recommended that when finalising your dissertation topic, you read recently published literature to identify gaps in the research that you may help fill.

Remember- dissertation topics need to be unique, solve an identified problem, be logical, and be practically implemented. Please look at some of our sample sociology dissertation topics to get an idea for your dissertation.

How to Structure Your Sociology Dissertation

A well-structured dissertation can help students to achieve a high overall academic grade.

A Title Page
Acknowledgements
Declaration
Abstract: A summary of the research completed
Table of Contents
Introduction : This chapter includes the project rationale, research background, key research aims and objectives, and the research problems. An outline of the structure of a dissertation can also be added to this chapter.
Literature Review : This chapter presents relevant theories and frameworks by analysing published and unpublished literature available on the chosen research topic to address research questions . The purpose is to highlight and discuss the selected research area’s relative weaknesses and strengths whilst identifying any research gaps. Break down the topic, and binding terms can positively impact your dissertation and your tutor.
Methodology : The data collection and analysis methods and techniques employed by the researcher are presented in the Methodology chapter which usually includes research design , research philosophy, research limitations, code of conduct, ethical consideration, data collection methods, and data analysis strategy .
Findings and Analysis : Findings of the research are analysed in detail under the Findings and Analysis chapter. All key findings/results are outlined in this chapter without interpreting the data or drawing any conclusions. It can be useful to include graphs , charts , and tables in this chapter to identify meaningful trends and relationships.
Discussion and Conclusion : The researcher presents his interpretation of results in this chapter and states whether the research hypothesis has been verified or not. An essential aspect of this section of the paper is to draw a linkage between the results and evidence from the literature. Recommendations with regard to the implications of the findings and directions for the future may also be provided. Finally, a summary of the overall research, along with final judgments, opinions, and comments, must be included in the form of suggestions for improvement.
References : This should be completed following your University’s requirements
Bibliography
Appendices : Any additional information, diagrams, and graphs used to complete the dissertation but not part of the dissertation should be included in the Appendices chapter. Essentially, the purpose is to expand the information/data.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How to choose a dissertation topic sociology.

Pick a topic that excites you and aligns with your coursework.
Consider research resources and data accessibility.
Refine your broad topic into a focused research question.
Strive for a fresh perspective within an existing field of study.
Discuss potential topics with your advisor to ensure fit.

Penn State University Libraries

Soc 001: introductory sociology.

Literature Reviews: Strategies for Writing
Fake News and Evaluating Sources

Literature Reviews

What is a Literature Review? The literature review is a critical look at the existing research that is significant to the work that you are carrying out. This overview identifies prominent research trends in addition to assessing the overall strengths and weaknesses of the existing research.

Purpose of the Literature Review

To provide background information about a research topic.
To establish the importance of a topic.
To demonstrate familiarity with a topic/problem.
To “carve out a space” for further work and allow you to position yourself in a scholarly conversation.

Characteristics of an effective literature review In addition to fulfilling the purposes outlined above, an effective literature review provides a critical overview of existing research by

Outlining important research trends.
Assessing strengths and weaknesses (of individual studies as well the existing research as a whole).
Identifying potential gaps in knowledge.
Establishing a need for current and/or future research projects.

Steps of the Literature Review Process

1) Planning: identify the focus, type, scope and discipline of the review you intend to write. 2) Reading and Research: collect and read current research on your topic. Select only those sources that are most relevant to your project. 3) Analyzing: summarize, synthesize, critique, and compare your sources in order to assess the field of research as a whole. 4) Drafting: develop a thesis or claim to make about the existing research and decide how to organize your material. 5) Revising: revise and finalize the structural, stylistic, and grammatical issues of your paper.

This process is not always a linear process; depending on the size and scope of your literature review, you may find yourself returning to some of these steps repeatedly as you continue to focus your project.

These steps adapted from the full workshop offered by the Graduate Writing Center at Penn State.

Literature Review Format

Introduction

Provide an overview of the topic, theme, or issue.
Identify your specific area of focus.
Describe your methodology and rationale. How did you decide which sources to include and which to exclude? Why? How is your review organized?
Briefly discuss the overall trends in the published scholarship in this area.
Establish your reason for writing the review.
Find the best organizational method for your review.
Summarize sources by providing the most relevant information.
Respectfully and objectively critique and evaluate the studies.
Use direct quotations sparingly and only if appropriate.

Conclusion

Summarize the major findings of the sources that you reviewed, remembering to keep the focus on your topic.
Evaluate the current state of scholarship in this area (ex. flaws or gaps in the research, inconsistencies in findings)
Identify any areas for further research.
Conclude by making a connection between your topic and some larger area of study such as the discipline.
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EMU Library
Research Guides

Social Research Methods

Literature Reviews
Welcome. Start Here.
Social Problem Topics
Primary vs. Secondary Sources
Reference Works for Sociology
Search for News Articles
Find Articles by tracking citations
Locating Full Text
Citing Sources in Sociology

What is a Literature Review?

Literature reviews in the social sciences take a slightly different approach than in the humanities (literature, philosophy, history, etc.) or the sciences (biology, physics, etc.). This guide focuses ONLY on the social sciences (anthropology, criminology, political science, sociology, etc.).

'literature' - commonly people use this word for creative written works like novels; but in academics the word 'literature' is also used to mean any collection or body of written work, including research articles and books.

'review' - commonly people use the word review for evaluations, like a movie review; but in academics the word is used broadly to mean a paper or section of a paper that summarizes and synthesizes literature to give an overview of theory and research on a topic.

Putting it together:

In the social sciences, a literature review is a paper or section of a paper that summarizes and synthesizes. To summarize is to describe the main arguments and conclusions. To synthesize is to compare, contrast, highlight relevant points, relate to ongoing trends or problems, and generally to draw out an argument or position based on the literature being reviewed.

A literature review is not a book review! Book reviews are articles that review a single book title. A literature sums up and analyzes a set of books or articles on a theme.

Literature reviews can be a section of a longer paper or book, or they can stand alone. Social scientists generally include a short review of relevant literature in their research papers to demonstrate how their own research fits into ongoing debates. Longer stand-alone review papers are published to give a picture of the current state of research. The Annual Reviews publication series are classic examples of stand-alone reviews.

Annual Reviews This link opens in a new window Critical reviews of primary research literature in the sciences and social sciences. EMU access does not include the most recent 5 years.
example of lit review articles

Guides on writing literature reviews:

Literature Reviews - UNC Writing Center
The Literature Review - USC Libraries
Literature Reviews: An Overview - NCSU libraries

Finding related articles

Whether for a literature review or a research paper, the analysis is much easier if it is based on a cluster of related articles and not a random assortment. Finding articles that are related rarely happens just by doing a single search, but it is not hard. Here are some approaches:

Start with a textbook, reference book, dissertation or review article and collect the citations of the authors who are mentioned or cited as part of the debate. Make sure to collect works from all points of view.
Use citation tracking to see how scholars mention each others' work, whether as examples, evidence or in order to debate. See below for more on citation tracking.
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100 best sociology research topics for students.

Are you looking for the best sociology research topics? You might have noticed that it can be very difficult to find great topics that can get you an A+ on your essay. This happens because most of your classmates are picking the same topics for their own papers. You need to learn how to find original sociology research topics. You need to make your topics interesting if want a greater chance of getting a top grade. To help you with this, we will give you 100 sociology research topics and also a couple of tips and tricks. These topics are free and you can use any of them as you see fit.

Good Sociology Paper Topics Are Very Important

Truth be told, students have a lot to gain if they learn how to find the best possible sociology papers topics. Did you notice that some of your peers manage to get very good grades without trying too much? How do they do it? Well, you may be surprised to find out that the sociology paper topics you choose have a great influence on your grade. Here is why:

Professors tend to award bonus points to papers that discuss interesting topics.
Coming up with original sociology essay topics demonstrates to your professor that you’ve dedicated ample time to the project.
Excellent topics in sociology are a sign that you took the essay seriously. Professors don’t expect works of art; they do, however, want to see implication on your part.

Is It Easy to Find Topics in Sociology?

Frankly, finding some great sociology research topics for college students is not easy. Even though the Internet is full of topics, tips and tricks, you will have a hard time finding the perfect topic. Moreover, your colleagues will often pick the same topics. If you want to stand out from the crowd, you need to find some original. Of course, the easy way to do this is to ask for help. You can easily find a team of experienced academic writers on the Internet. An academic writing company can help you with a list of good sociology topics in no time. Alternatively, you can give out list of 100 topics a try.

The List of Sociology Research Topics for College Students

We are providing this list of sociology topics to write about for free. Also, we make every effort to update the list as frequently as possible. These topics are perfect for 2023. However, we advise students to look at our sociology research topics list, pick the best topic for their needs, and then modify them. You are advised to change the wording because this list is public. Anyone can read it and use the topics contained within. Pick any one of these good sociology research topics and make it even better by making it original.

Easy Sociology Research Paper Topics

Don’t want to spend a lot of time writing the paper? Here are some researchable topics in sociology that will prove to be pretty simple for you:

The problems posed by domestic violence.
How does divorce affects a child?
Hurdles of low-income families.
Causes of family conflicts.
What makes a marriage successful?
Is single parenting difficult?
Problems of teenage pregnancy.
Frequent causes of conflicts among teenagers.

Sociology Research Topics for High School Students

If you are a high school student and you need some original research topics for sociology, here are some of the best options for you in 2023:

Discuss social norms in your area.
Discuss social sanctions in your area.
How to overcome personal conflicts.
What is political socialization?
Discuss gender stereotypes.
Does the environment impact our society?
What is eco-feminism?

Sociology Topics for Presentation

If you are required to create a presentation, we have a list of excellent sociology topics for presentation. Here are some of the best examples:

Presenting the relations between humans and nature.
The social views of Plato.
The social views of Aristotle.
The strike as a productivity conflict.
Social development and religion.
Leadership and efficiency at the workplace.
Culture as a way of socialization.

Social Media Sociology

Social media is a very interesting subject and it is closely related to sociology. Here are some of the best sociology projects topics for social media:

Are social networks secure?
Popularity of social networks in various groups.
What is social media addiction?
Effects of social media overuse.
Social media marketing and anorexia.
Sharing personal information on social networks.
Is blogging really a profession?

Sociology Research Proposal Topics

Need a sociology paper topic for a research proposal? These are a bit more difficult to come by, but our writers managed to put together a list of excellent examples for you:

Discussing gender stereotypes in sports.
Pakistan and the violation of women’s rights.
Does sexual abuse lead to eating disorders?
Discuss immigrant families in the UK.
The effect of birth control on society. (one of the best sociology topics for research)
Does the Internet create isolation?
Are we relying too much on Google?

Nationality and Race

What better way to write a sociology paper worthy of a top grade than to write on a topic related to nationality and race? Pick a sociology topic for research paper from these and start writing:

The sociology behind ethnic relations.
What is the “white supremacist” current?
What causes ethnic problems?
Analyze the genocide in Darfur.
Why do people immigrate?
Racial stereotypes affect our self-esteem.
Does foreign education equal a successful career?

Interesting Sociology Topics

Interesting topics are almost guaranteed to get you a top grade. Pick a sociology research paper topic from the following list and get the A+ or at least the A you need:

The causes of bullying.
The effects of bullying.
Why are family roles so important?
Analyzing the “body culture.”
Is shopping a sociological practice?
Deviant behavior or teenagers.
Why are teenagers so curious?

Persuasive Speech Topics for College Students

If you are looking for some persuasive speech topics for college students, we have the best ones on the Internet. Here is what we are talking about:

What should we do with our free time?
What is sociological knowledge?
Technology is affecting the way we eat.
Fast food is damaging our society.
Social media is making us less social.
Musical education should be mandatory.
Nationalism is happening all around us.

Sociology Project Topics

Sociology projects can be very difficult to complete. However, the topic you choose can ease your workload immensely. Here are some good examples:

Analyze the human rights.
Does the capital punishment have the intended effect?
Who’s the father of sociology ?
Religion is affecting human rights.
Education and the Down Syndrome.
The effect of social media on youth.
Consequences of advertising to children.
Analyzing healthcare in NYC.

Gender Sociology

It can be difficult to write about gender sociology, we know. This is why our academic writers have put together a list of great gender sociology topics for you:

Problems with gender in our society.
What are gender stereotypes?
Eliminating stereotypes based on gender.
Gender studies for youth.
The link between nationality and homosexuality.
Should every country legalize LGBT?
Define gender inequality.

Sociology Survey Topics

We know you are probably having a difficult time finding interesting sociology survey topics. Don’t worry about it too much though. Just pick one of these examples:

Is bulimia widespread in the UK?
Social distancing during the COVID-19 crisis.
What leads to poor health?
Are there more unemployed women than men?
Does poverty decrease life expectancy?
How widespread is police brutality?
Are our youths exposed to violence?

Family and Relationships

Family and relationships topics are some of the best for sociology papers. However, not all topics you find online will impress your professor. These, however, will:

Social media effects on relationships.
Discuss the modern US family.
What is helicopter parenting?
Does adoption affect our society?
Divorce: Consequences for children.
Single parenting difficulties.

Sociology Thesis Topics

The topic you choose for your sociology thesis is extremely important. It’s the first thing the professor sees. Pick one of these and never look back:

Parenting in LGBT families.
The sociology of marriage.
The gender aspect of unemployment in the US.
Discussing social inequalities in modern society.
Do romantic comedies affect women emotionally?

Terrorism/War Sociology Topics for Paper

Looking for a nice terrorist or war topic in sociology? Why don’t you choose one of these topics and start writing the paper right now:

Effects of terrorism on society.
Negative effects of was on our society.
Social reaction to the Vietnam war.
Why do certain groups produce more terrorists than others?
What makes a terrorist become a terrorist?

Human Behavior Research Topic for Sociology

Human behavior is very complex, and so are sociology papers written on this subject. But they don’t have to be! Here are some clever examples:

What regulates the human behavior?
The history of behavior.
What leads to suicidal behavior?
What is personality resocialization?
The various models of behavior.

These sociology research topics are here for you. They are original at the time of writing and have been created by a team of expert academic writers . Pick any of our sociology research paper topics and start writing an exceptional essay right now. We wish you the best of luck. And remember, we are always here to help high school and college students with the best advice, information, tips and tricks.

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How to write a sociology research paper: a step-by-step guide

How to write a sociology research paper: a comprehensive guide

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Sociology research is essential for understanding human societies' patterns and systems, which include family dynamics, collective behavior, school systems, race relations, and societal movements. But how to write a sociology research paper? This article will walk you through the main phases of creating a sociology research paper, explaining how each part affects the overall quality. This organized approach will help you grasp the area and its impact on society.

Understanding sociology research paper topics

The subjects of sociology papers are vast and varied. This diversity allows researchers to study many human behaviors and social processes. Many issues, including family dynamics in sociology, social institutions, and cultural standards, can be explored in sociology papers. Understanding how these themes relate to current societal challenges might help you choose a compelling and meaningful topic. Focusing on sociological issues ensures that your research broadens society's comprehension.

Choosing the right sociology research topic

Choosing the right topic for your sociology papers is crucial in the research process. Here are some factors to consider:

Personal interest and societal relevance

Choosing a topic you are passionate about will make the research process more enjoyable. To ensure your study is valuable, evaluate the topic's relevance to contemporary social challenges. Also, choosing sociology research paper topics that tackle current social challenges might boost your research's effectiveness. Personal involvement and societal significance are essential for compelling sociology papers.

The role of writing services in choosing the right topic

Writing services can assist you in choosing a sociology research topic. For instance, if you find yourself wondering, "Who can write my essay for me?" services like writepaperfor.me can assist you in choosing topics effectively. These businesses offer expert advice to match your topic to your interests and current social issues.

Availability of data and resources

High-quality research papers require dependable data sources for sociology research. Without enough data, your research may lack depth and validity. The list contains scholarly journals, books, and reputable websites. Primary data from surveys, interviews, and observations can also be useful. Reliable data enriches your study and boosts credibility. Thus, when choosing a sociology research paper topic, data and resources must be considered.

Originality and uniqueness

Choose an innovative sociological topic to make your research paper unique and influential. Choosing an unusual topic can provide new viewpoints, distinguish your research, and advance the field. Effectively articulating and presenting new ideas is essential when learning how to write a sociology research paper.

Significance in sociology

Consider how your sociology research papers affect sociological theories, policies, and practices. Significant field topics can provide insights and advance sociological understanding. You may make your study meaningful by emphasizing its importance. This method can boost your work's significance.

Exploring diverse sociology research topics

Exploring sociology through research papers opens up a myriad of intriguing topics that delve into various aspects of human society and social behavior. The following sociology paper topics offer a broad spectrum of ideas, each providing a unique lens through which to study and understand the complex social world around us.

Social inequality and stratification

The Impact of Social Class on Education Opportunities
Wealth Distribution and Poverty Alleviation Strategies
The Role of Social Mobility in Modern Societies
Income Inequality and Health Outcomes
Housing Inequality and Urban Development
Labor Market Inequalities and Employment Trends
The Digital Divide and Access to Technology
Educational Inequality and Policy Interventions
Social Welfare Programs and Economic Disparities
Discrimination in the Workplace: Causes and Solutions
Economic Inequality and Political Participation
Globalization and its Effects on Social Stratification
The Influence of Social Capital on Economic Success
Poverty and Crime: A Sociological Perspective
Inequalities in Healthcare Access and Quality
Social Inequality in Rural vs. Urban Areas
The Role of Inheritance in Perpetuating Wealth Gaps
The Intersection of Race and Economic Inequality
Class-based Disparities in Mental Health
The Impact of Austerity Measures on Social Inequality

Gender and sexuality studies

The Evolution of Gender Roles in Society
Gender Stereotypes in Media and Advertising
The Impact of Feminism on Gender Equality
Gender Identity and Expression in Contemporary Society
The Role of Gender in Workplace Dynamics
Sexual Orientation and Social Acceptance
Gender Inequality in Education Systems
The Role of Gender in Health Disparities
Legal Protections and Rights for the LGBTQ+ Community
Understanding and Preventing Gender-Based Violence
The Role of Religion in Shaping Gender Norms
Gender Representation in Political Arenas
The Effects of Gender on Health and Well-Being
Gender Socialization and Childhood Development
Gender Differences in Communication Styles
The Role of Men in Advancing Gender Equality
Gender Studies Research Paper in Leadership Roles
The History and Impact of the LGBTQ+ Movement
Gender and Mental Health: Analyzing Disparities
The Effect of Cultural Practices on Gender Roles

Race and ethnicity

How Racism Affects Mental Health
Racial Profiling and Its Influence on Law Enforcement Practices
The Importance of Education in Mitigating Racial Inequality
Ethnic Diversity and Its Impact on Social Cohesion
The Influence of Immigration on Ethnic Relations
Racial Inequities in the Criminal Justice System
The History of Civil Rights Movements
Race and Economic Inequality
The Impact of Media Representation on Racial Stereotypes
The Role of Religion in Shaping Ethnic Identities
Racial Integration in Urban Environments
The Intersection of Race and Gender in Social Inequality
The Role of Policy in Addressing Racial Discrimination
The Impact of Historical Events on Racial Dynamics
Racial and Ethnic Identity Formation
The Influence of Cultural Heritage on Ethnic Relations
The Effects of Gentrification on Ethnic Communities
Race, Ethnicity, and Education Attainment
The Role of Advocacy Groups in Racial Justice
The Influence of Pop Culture on Racial Perceptions

Family dynamics and relationships

How Divorce Affects Children's Well-being
The Influence of Parenting Styles on Child Development
Family Structure and Its Impact on Academic Achievement
Child Adjustment in Blended Families
The Influence of Cultural Practices on Family Dynamics
Family Communication Patterns and Conflict Resolution
The Role of Extended Family in Modern Society
Work-Life Balance and Family Relationships
The Impact of Technology on Family Interactions
The Effects of Economic Stress on Family Stability
Single Parenthood and Child Outcomes
The Role of Gender in Household Responsibilities
The Influence of Religion on Family Life
Family Dynamics in Multicultural Households
How Adoption Shapes Family Structure
Parenting Challenges and Strategies in the Digital Age
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The Importance of Family Therapy in Conflict Resolution
Socioeconomic Status and Its Influence on Family Dynamics
Caring for Aging Parents: Challenges and Responsibilities

Urban sociology and community studies

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Gentrification and its Effects on Local Communities
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Community Studies in Sociology Development and Social Capital
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Urban Renewal and its Social Implications
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Social Change and Development
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Education's Role in Encouraging Environmental Sustainability
Environmental Inequality and Resource Accessibility
The Environmental Toll of Agricultural Practices
Corporate Practices and Their Impact on Environmental Health
Government's Role in Protecting the Environment
The Global Impact of Deforestation on Ecosystems
Balancing Environmental Policy with Economic Growth
How Renewable Energy Influences Social Structures
The Role of NGOs in Championing Environmental Causes

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DOI: 10.35529/jllte.v5i1.46-67
Corpus ID: 260080692

WHAT AND HOW SHOULD THE PUBLIC SPEAKING BE? : A LITERATURE REVIEW

I. W. Dirgayasa
Published in Journal of Language… 20 July 2023
Linguistics, Sociology

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Open Access

Peer-reviewed

Research Article

Functional connectivity changes in the brain of adolescents with internet addiction: A systematic literature review of imaging studies

Roles Conceptualization, Data curation, Formal analysis, Investigation, Methodology, Project administration, Software, Validation, Visualization, Writing – original draft, Writing – review & editing

Affiliation Child and Adolescent Mental Health, Department of Brain Sciences, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom

Roles Conceptualization, Supervision, Validation, Writing – review & editing

* E-mail: [email protected]

Affiliation Behavioural Brain Sciences Unit, Population Policy Practice Programme, Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom

Max L. Y. Chang,
Irene O. Lee

Published: June 4, 2024
https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pmen.0000022
Peer Review
Reader Comments

Internet usage has seen a stark global rise over the last few decades, particularly among adolescents and young people, who have also been diagnosed increasingly with internet addiction (IA). IA impacts several neural networks that influence an adolescent’s behaviour and development. This article issued a literature review on the resting-state and task-based functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) studies to inspect the consequences of IA on the functional connectivity (FC) in the adolescent brain and its subsequent effects on their behaviour and development. A systematic search was conducted from two databases, PubMed and PsycINFO, to select eligible articles according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Eligibility criteria was especially stringent regarding the adolescent age range (10–19) and formal diagnosis of IA. Bias and quality of individual studies were evaluated. The fMRI results from 12 articles demonstrated that the effects of IA were seen throughout multiple neural networks: a mix of increases/decreases in FC in the default mode network; an overall decrease in FC in the executive control network; and no clear increase or decrease in FC within the salience network and reward pathway. The FC changes led to addictive behaviour and tendencies in adolescents. The subsequent behavioural changes are associated with the mechanisms relating to the areas of cognitive control, reward valuation, motor coordination, and the developing adolescent brain. Our results presented the FC alterations in numerous brain regions of adolescents with IA leading to the behavioural and developmental changes. Research on this topic had a low frequency with adolescent samples and were primarily produced in Asian countries. Future research studies of comparing results from Western adolescent samples provide more insight on therapeutic intervention.

Citation: Chang MLY, Lee IO (2024) Functional connectivity changes in the brain of adolescents with internet addiction: A systematic literature review of imaging studies. PLOS Ment Health 1(1): e0000022. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pmen.0000022

Editor: Kizito Omona, Uganda Martyrs University, UGANDA

Received: December 29, 2023; Accepted: March 18, 2024; Published: June 4, 2024

Copyright: © 2024 Chang, Lee. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License , which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited.

Data Availability: All relevant data are within the paper and its Supporting information files.

Funding: The authors received no specific funding for this work.

Competing interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist.

Introduction

The behavioural addiction brought on by excessive internet use has become a rising source of concern [ 1 ] since the last decade. According to clinical studies, individuals with Internet Addiction (IA) or Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) may have a range of biopsychosocial effects and is classified as an impulse-control disorder owing to its resemblance to pathological gambling and substance addiction [ 2 , 3 ]. IA has been defined by researchers as a person’s inability to resist the urge to use the internet, which has negative effects on their psychological well-being as well as their social, academic, and professional lives [ 4 ]. The symptoms can have serious physical and interpersonal repercussions and are linked to mood modification, salience, tolerance, impulsivity, and conflict [ 5 ]. In severe circumstances, people may experience severe pain in their bodies or health issues like carpal tunnel syndrome, dry eyes, irregular eating and disrupted sleep [ 6 ]. Additionally, IA is significantly linked to comorbidities with other psychiatric disorders [ 7 ].

Stevens et al (2021) reviewed 53 studies including 17 countries and reported the global prevalence of IA was 3.05% [ 8 ]. Asian countries had a higher prevalence (5.1%) than European countries (2.7%) [ 8 ]. Strikingly, adolescents and young adults had a global IGD prevalence rate of 9.9% which matches previous literature that reported historically higher prevalence among adolescent populations compared to adults [ 8 , 9 ]. Over 80% of adolescent population in the UK, the USA, and Asia have direct access to the internet [ 10 ]. Children and adolescents frequently spend more time on media (possibly 7 hours and 22 minutes per day) than at school or sleeping [ 11 ]. Developing nations have also shown a sharp rise in teenage internet usage despite having lower internet penetration rates [ 10 ]. Concerns regarding the possible harms that overt internet use could do to adolescents and their development have arisen because of this surge, especially the significant impacts by the COVID-19 pandemic [ 12 ]. The growing prevalence and neurocognitive consequences of IA among adolescents makes this population a vital area of study [ 13 ].

Adolescence is a crucial developmental stage during which people go through significant changes in their biology, cognition, and personalities [ 14 ]. Adolescents’ emotional-behavioural functioning is hyperactivated, which creates risk of psychopathological vulnerability [ 15 ]. In accordance with clinical study results [ 16 ], this emotional hyperactivity is supported by a high level of neuronal plasticity. This plasticity enables teenagers to adapt to the numerous physical and emotional changes that occur during puberty as well as develop communication techniques and gain independence [ 16 ]. However, the strong neuronal plasticity is also associated with risk-taking and sensation seeking [ 17 ] which may lead to IA.

Despite the fact that the precise neuronal mechanisms underlying IA are still largely unclear, functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) method has been used by scientists as an important framework to examine the neuropathological changes occurring in IA, particularly in the form of functional connectivity (FC) [ 18 ]. fMRI research study has shown that IA alters both the functional and structural makeup of the brain [ 3 ].

We hypothesise that IA has widespread neurological alteration effects rather than being limited to a few specific brain regions. Further hypothesis holds that according to these alterations of FC between the brain regions or certain neural networks, adolescents with IA would experience behavioural changes. An investigation of these domains could be useful for creating better procedures and standards as well as minimising the negative effects of overt internet use. This literature review aims to summarise and analyse the evidence of various imaging studies that have investigated the effects of IA on the FC in adolescents. This will be addressed through two research questions:

How does internet addiction affect the functional connectivity in the adolescent brain?
How is adolescent behaviour and development impacted by functional connectivity changes due to internet addiction?

The review protocol was conducted in line with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines (see S1 Checklist ).

Search strategy and selection process

A systematic search was conducted up until April 2023 from two sources of database, PubMed and PsycINFO, using a range of terms relevant to the title and research questions (see full list of search terms in S1 Appendix ). All the searched articles can be accessed in the S1 Data . The eligible articles were selected according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Inclusion criteria used for the present review were: (i) participants in the studies with clinical diagnosis of IA; (ii) participants between the ages of 10 and 19; (iii) imaging research investigations; (iv) works published between January 2013 and April 2023; (v) written in English language; (vi) peer-reviewed papers and (vii) full text. The numbers of articles excluded due to not meeting the inclusion criteria are shown in Fig 1 . Each study’s title and abstract were screened for eligibility.

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https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pmen.0000022.g001

Quality appraisal

Full texts of all potentially relevant studies were then retrieved and further appraised for eligibility. Furthermore, articles were critically appraised based on the GRADE (Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations) framework to evaluate the individual study for both quality and bias. The subsequent quality levels were then appraised to each article and listed as either low, moderate, or high.

Data collection process

Data that satisfied the inclusion requirements was entered into an excel sheet for data extraction and further selection. An article’s author, publication year, country, age range, participant sample size, sex, area of interest, measures, outcome and article quality were all included in the data extraction spreadsheet. Studies looking at FC, for instance, were grouped, while studies looking at FC in specific area were further divided into sub-groups.

Data synthesis and analysis

Articles were classified according to their location in the brain as well as the network or pathway they were a part of to create a coherent narrative between the selected studies. Conclusions concerning various research trends relevant to particular groupings were drawn from these groupings and subgroupings. To maintain the offered information in a prominent manner, these assertions were entered into the data extraction excel spreadsheet.

With the search performed on the selected databases, 238 articles in total were identified (see Fig 1 ). 15 duplicated articles were eliminated, and another 6 items were removed for various other reasons. Title and abstract screening eliminated 184 articles because they were not in English (number of article, n, = 7), did not include imaging components (n = 47), had adult participants (n = 53), did not have a clinical diagnosis of IA (n = 19), did not address FC in the brain (n = 20), and were published outside the desired timeframe (n = 38). A further 21 papers were eliminated for failing to meet inclusion requirements after the remaining 33 articles underwent full-text eligibility screening. A total of 12 papers were deemed eligible for this review analysis.

Characteristics of the included studies, as depicted in the data extraction sheet in Table 1 provide information of the author(s), publication year, sample size, study location, age range, gender, area of interest, outcome, measures used and quality appraisal. Most of the studies in this review utilised resting state functional magnetic resonance imaging techniques (n = 7), with several studies demonstrating task-based fMRI procedures (n = 3), and the remaining studies utilising whole-brain imaging measures (n = 2). The studies were all conducted in Asiatic countries, specifically coming from China (8), Korea (3), and Indonesia (1). Sample sizes ranged from 12 to 31 participants with most of the imaging studies having comparable sample sizes. Majority of the studies included a mix of male and female participants (n = 8) with several studies having a male only participant pool (n = 3). All except one of the mixed gender studies had a majority male participant pool. One study did not disclose their data on the gender demographics of their experiment. Study years ranged from 2013–2022, with 2 studies in 2013, 3 studies in 2014, 3 studies in 2015, 1 study in 2017, 1 study in 2020, 1 study in 2021, and 1 study in 2022.

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pmen.0000022.t001

(1) How does internet addiction affect the functional connectivity in the adolescent brain?

The included studies were organised according to the brain region or network that they were observing. The specific networks affected by IA were the default mode network, executive control system, salience network and reward pathway. These networks are vital components of adolescent behaviour and development [ 31 ]. The studies in each section were then grouped into subsections according to their specific brain regions within their network.

Default mode network (DMN)/reward network.

Out of the 12 studies, 3 have specifically studied the default mode network (DMN), and 3 observed whole-brain FC that partially included components of the DMN. The effect of IA on the various centres of the DMN was not unilaterally the same. The findings illustrate a complex mix of increases and decreases in FC depending on the specific region in the DMN (see Table 2 and Fig 2 ). The alteration of FC in posterior cingulate cortex (PCC) in the DMN was the most frequently reported area in adolescents with IA, which involved in attentional processes [ 32 ], but Lee et al. (2020) additionally found alterations of FC in other brain regions, such as anterior insula cortex, a node in the DMN that controls the integration of motivational and cognitive processes [ 20 ].

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pmen.0000022.g002

The overall changes of functional connectivity in the brain network including default mode network (DMN), executive control network (ECN), salience network (SN) and reward network. IA = Internet Addiction, FC = Functional Connectivity.

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pmen.0000022.t002

Ding et al. (2013) revealed altered FC in the cerebellum, the middle temporal gyrus, and the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) [ 22 ]. They found that the bilateral inferior parietal lobule, left superior parietal lobule, and right inferior temporal gyrus had decreased FC, while the bilateral posterior lobe of the cerebellum and the medial temporal gyrus had increased FC [ 22 ]. The right middle temporal gyrus was found to have 111 cluster voxels (t = 3.52, p<0.05) and the right inferior parietal lobule was found to have 324 cluster voxels (t = -4.07, p<0.05) with an extent threshold of 54 voxels (figures above this threshold are deemed significant) [ 22 ]. Additionally, there was a negative correlation, with 95 cluster voxels (p<0.05) between the FC of the left superior parietal lobule and the PCC with the Chen Internet Addiction Scores (CIAS) which are used to determine the severity of IA [ 22 ]. On the other hand, in regions of the reward system, connection with the PCC was positively connected with CIAS scores [ 22 ]. The most significant was the right praecuneus with 219 cluster voxels (p<0.05) [ 22 ]. Wang et al. (2017) also discovered that adolescents with IA had 33% less FC in the left inferior parietal lobule and 20% less FC in the dorsal mPFC [ 24 ]. A potential connection between the effects of substance use and overt internet use is revealed by the generally decreased FC in these areas of the DMN of teenagers with drug addiction and IA [ 35 ].

The putamen was one of the main regions of reduced FC in adolescents with IA [ 19 ]. The putamen and the insula-operculum demonstrated significant group differences regarding functional connectivity with a cluster size of 251 and an extent threshold of 250 (Z = 3.40, p<0.05) [ 19 ]. The molecular mechanisms behind addiction disorders have been intimately connected to decreased striatal dopaminergic function [ 19 ], making this function crucial.

Executive Control Network (ECN).

5 studies out of 12 have specifically viewed parts of the executive control network (ECN) and 3 studies observed whole-brain FC. The effects of IA on the ECN’s constituent parts were consistent across all the studies examined for this analysis (see Table 2 and Fig 3 ). The results showed a notable decline in all the ECN’s major centres. Li et al. (2014) used fMRI imaging and a behavioural task to study response inhibition in adolescents with IA [ 25 ] and found decreased activation at the striatum and frontal gyrus, particularly a reduction in FC at inferior frontal gyrus, in the IA group compared to controls [ 25 ]. The inferior frontal gyrus showed a reduction in FC in comparison to the controls with a cluster size of 71 (t = 4.18, p<0.05) [ 25 ]. In addition, the frontal-basal ganglia pathways in the adolescents with IA showed little effective connection between areas and increased degrees of response inhibition [ 25 ].

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pmen.0000022.g003

Lin et al. (2015) found that adolescents with IA demonstrated disrupted corticostriatal FC compared to controls [ 33 ]. The corticostriatal circuitry experienced decreased connectivity with the caudate, bilateral anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), as well as the striatum and frontal gyrus [ 33 ]. The inferior ventral striatum showed significantly reduced FC with the subcallosal ACC and caudate head with cluster size of 101 (t = -4.64, p<0.05) [ 33 ]. Decreased FC in the caudate implies dysfunction of the corticostriatal-limbic circuitry involved in cognitive and emotional control [ 36 ]. The decrease in FC in both the striatum and frontal gyrus is related to inhibitory control, a common deficit seen with disruptions with the ECN [ 33 ].

The dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC), ACC, and right supplementary motor area (SMA) of the prefrontal cortex were all found to have significantly decreased grey matter volume [ 29 ]. In addition, the DLPFC, insula, temporal cortices, as well as significant subcortical regions like the striatum and thalamus, showed decreased FC [ 29 ]. According to Tremblay (2009), the striatum plays a significant role in the processing of rewards, decision-making, and motivation [ 37 ]. Chen et al. (2020) reported that the IA group demonstrated increased impulsivity as well as decreased reaction inhibition using a Stroop colour-word task [ 26 ]. Furthermore, Chen et al. (2020) observed that the left DLPFC and dorsal striatum experienced a negative connection efficiency value, specifically demonstrating that the dorsal striatum activity suppressed the left DLPFC [ 27 ].

Salience network (SN).

Out of the 12 chosen studies, 3 studies specifically looked at the salience network (SN) and 3 studies have observed whole-brain FC. Relative to the DMN and ECN, the findings on the SN were slightly sparser. Despite this, adolescents with IA demonstrated a moderate decrease in FC, as well as other measures like fibre connectivity and cognitive control, when compared to healthy control (see Table 2 and Fig 4 ).

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pmen.0000022.g004

Xing et al. (2014) used both dorsal anterior cingulate cortex (dACC) and insula to test FC changes in the SN of adolescents with IA and found decreased structural connectivity in the SN as well as decreased fractional anisotropy (FA) that correlated to behaviour performance in the Stroop colour word-task [ 21 ]. They examined the dACC and insula to determine whether the SN’s disrupted connectivity may be linked to the SN’s disruption of regulation, which would explain the impaired cognitive control seen in adolescents with IA. However, researchers did not find significant FC differences in the SN when compared to the controls [ 21 ]. These results provided evidence for the structural changes in the interconnectivity within SN in adolescents with IA.

Wang et al. (2017) investigated network interactions between the DMN, ECN, SN and reward pathway in IA subjects [ 24 ] (see Fig 5 ), and found 40% reduction of FC between the DMN and specific regions of the SN, such as the insula, in comparison to the controls (p = 0.008) [ 24 ]. The anterior insula and dACC are two areas that are impacted by this altered FC [ 24 ]. This finding supports the idea that IA has similar neurobiological abnormalities with other addictive illnesses, which is in line with a study that discovered disruptive changes in the SN and DMN’s interaction in cocaine addiction [ 38 ]. The insula has also been linked to the intensity of symptoms and has been implicated in the development of IA [ 39 ].

“+” indicates an increase in behaivour; “-”indicates a decrease in behaviour; solid arrows indicate a direct network interaction; and the dotted arrows indicates a reduction in network interaction. This diagram depicts network interactions juxtaposed with engaging in internet related behaviours. Through the neural interactions, the diagram illustrates how the networks inhibit or amplify internet usage and vice versa. Furthermore, it demonstrates how the SN mediates both the DMN and ECN.

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pmen.0000022.g005

(2) How is adolescent behaviour and development impacted by functional connectivity changes due to internet addiction?

The findings that IA individuals demonstrate an overall decrease in FC in the DMN is supported by numerous research [ 24 ]. Drug addict populations also exhibited similar decline in FC in the DMN [ 40 ]. The disruption of attentional orientation and self-referential processing for both substance and behavioural addiction was then hypothesised to be caused by DMN anomalies in FC [ 41 ].

In adolescents with IA, decline of FC in the parietal lobule affects visuospatial task-related behaviour [ 22 ], short-term memory [ 42 ], and the ability of controlling attention or restraining motor responses during response inhibition tests [ 42 ]. Cue-induced gaming cravings are influenced by the DMN [ 43 ]. A visual processing area called the praecuneus links gaming cues to internal information [ 22 ]. A meta-analysis found that the posterior cingulate cortex activity of individuals with IA during cue-reactivity tasks was connected with their gaming time [ 44 ], suggesting that excessive gaming may impair DMN function and that individuals with IA exert more cognitive effort to control it. Findings for the behavioural consequences of FC changes in the DMN illustrate its underlying role in regulating impulsivity, self-monitoring, and cognitive control.

Furthermore, Ding et al. (2013) reported an activation of components of the reward pathway, including areas like the nucleus accumbens, praecuneus, SMA, caudate, and thalamus, in connection to the DMN [ 22 ]. The increased FC of the limbic and reward networks have been confirmed to be a major biomarker for IA [ 45 , 46 ]. The increased reinforcement in these networks increases the strength of reward stimuli and makes it more difficult for other networks, namely the ECN, to down-regulate the increased attention [ 29 ] (See Fig 5 ).

Executive control network (ECN).

The numerous IA-affected components in the ECN have a role in a variety of behaviours that are connected to both response inhibition and emotional regulation [ 47 ]. For instance, brain regions like the striatum, which are linked to impulsivity and the reward system, are heavily involved in the act of playing online games [ 47 ]. Online game play activates the striatum, which suppresses the left DLPFC in ECN [ 48 ]. As a result, people with IA may find it difficult to control their want to play online games [ 48 ]. This system thus causes impulsive and protracted gaming conduct, lack of inhibitory control leading to the continued use of internet in an overt manner despite a variety of negative effects, personal distress, and signs of psychological dependence [ 33 ] (See Fig 5 ).

Wang et al. (2017) report that disruptions in cognitive control networks within the ECN are frequently linked to characteristics of substance addiction [ 24 ]. With samples that were addicted to heroin and cocaine, previous studies discovered abnormal FC in the ECN and the PFC [ 49 ]. Electronic gaming is known to promote striatal dopamine release, similar to drug addiction [ 50 ]. According to Drgonova and Walther (2016), it is hypothesised that dopamine could stimulate the reward system of the striatum in the brain, leading to a loss of impulse control and a failure of prefrontal lobe executive inhibitory control [ 51 ]. In the end, IA’s resemblance to drug use disorders may point to vital biomarkers or underlying mechanisms that explain how cognitive control and impulsive behaviour are related.

A task-related fMRI study found that the decrease in FC between the left DLPFC and dorsal striatum was congruent with an increase in impulsivity in adolescents with IA [ 26 ]. The lack of response inhibition from the ECN results in a loss of control over internet usage and a reduced capacity to display goal-directed behaviour [ 33 ]. Previous studies have linked the alteration of the ECN in IA with higher cue reactivity and impaired ability to self-regulate internet specific stimuli [ 52 ].

Salience network (SN)/ other networks.

Xing et al. (2014) investigated the significance of the SN regarding cognitive control in teenagers with IA [ 21 ]. The SN, which is composed of the ACC and insula, has been demonstrated to control dynamic changes in other networks to modify cognitive performance [ 21 ]. The ACC is engaged in conflict monitoring and cognitive control, according to previous neuroimaging research [ 53 ]. The insula is a region that integrates interoceptive states into conscious feelings [ 54 ]. The results from Xing et al. (2014) showed declines in the SN regarding its structural connectivity and fractional anisotropy, even though they did not observe any appreciable change in FC in the IA participants [ 21 ]. Due to the small sample size, the results may have indicated that FC methods are not sensitive enough to detect the significant functional changes [ 21 ]. However, task performance behaviours associated with impaired cognitive control in adolescents with IA were correlated with these findings [ 21 ]. Our comprehension of the SN’s broader function in IA can be enhanced by this relationship.

Research study supports the idea that different psychological issues are caused by the functional reorganisation of expansive brain networks, such that strong association between SN and DMN may provide neurological underpinnings at the system level for the uncontrollable character of internet-using behaviours [ 24 ]. In the study by Wang et al. (2017), the decreased interconnectivity between the SN and DMN, comprising regions such the DLPFC and the insula, suggests that adolescents with IA may struggle to effectively inhibit DMN activity during internally focused processing, leading to poorly managed desires or preoccupations to use the internet [ 24 ] (See Fig 5 ). Subsequently, this may cause a failure to inhibit DMN activity as well as a restriction of ECN functionality [ 55 ]. As a result, the adolescent experiences an increased salience and sensitivity towards internet addicting cues making it difficult to avoid these triggers [ 56 ].

The primary aim of this review was to present a summary of how internet addiction impacts on the functional connectivity of adolescent brain. Subsequently, the influence of IA on the adolescent brain was compartmentalised into three sections: alterations of FC at various brain regions, specific FC relationships, and behavioural/developmental changes. Overall, the specific effects of IA on the adolescent brain were not completely clear, given the variety of FC changes. However, there were overarching behavioural, network and developmental trends that were supported that provided insight on adolescent development.

The first hypothesis that was held about this question was that IA was widespread and would be regionally similar to substance-use and gambling addiction. After conducting a review of the information in the chosen articles, the hypothesis was predictably supported. The regions of the brain affected by IA are widespread and influence multiple networks, mainly DMN, ECN, SN and reward pathway. In the DMN, there was a complex mix of increases and decreases within the network. However, in the ECN, the alterations of FC were more unilaterally decreased, but the findings of SN and reward pathway were not quite clear. Overall, the FC changes within adolescents with IA are very much network specific and lay a solid foundation from which to understand the subsequent behaviour changes that arise from the disorder.

The second hypothesis placed emphasis on the importance of between network interactions and within network interactions in the continuation of IA and the development of its behavioural symptoms. The results from the findings involving the networks, DMN, SN, ECN and reward system, support this hypothesis (see Fig 5 ). Studies confirm the influence of all these neural networks on reward valuation, impulsivity, salience to stimuli, cue reactivity and other changes that alter behaviour towards the internet use. Many of these changes are connected to the inherent nature of the adolescent brain.

There are multiple explanations that underlie the vulnerability of the adolescent brain towards IA related urges. Several of them have to do with the inherent nature and underlying mechanisms of the adolescent brain. Children’s emotional, social, and cognitive capacities grow exponentially during childhood and adolescence [ 57 ]. Early teenagers go through a process called “social reorientation” that is characterised by heightened sensitivity to social cues and peer connections [ 58 ]. Adolescents’ improvements in their social skills coincide with changes in their brains’ anatomical and functional organisation [ 59 ]. Functional hubs exhibit growing connectivity strength [ 60 ], suggesting increased functional integration during development. During this time, the brain’s functional networks change from an anatomically dominant structure to a scattered architecture [ 60 ].

The adolescent brain is very responsive to synaptic reorganisation and experience cues [ 61 ]. As a result, one of the distinguishing traits of the maturation of adolescent brains is the variation in neural network trajectory [ 62 ]. Important weaknesses of the adolescent brain that may explain the neurobiological change brought on by external stimuli are illustrated by features like the functional gaps between networks and the inadequate segregation of networks [ 62 ].

The implications of these findings towards adolescent behaviour are significant. Although the exact changes and mechanisms are not fully clear, the observed changes in functional connectivity have the capacity of influencing several aspects of adolescent development. For example, functional connectivity has been utilised to investigate attachment styles in adolescents [ 63 ]. It was observed that adolescent attachment styles were negatively associated with caudate-prefrontal connectivity, but positively with the putamen-visual area connectivity [ 63 ]. Both named areas were also influenced by the onset of internet addiction, possibly providing a connection between the two. Another study associated neighbourhood/socioeconomic disadvantage with functional connectivity alterations in the DMN and dorsal attention network [ 64 ]. The study also found multivariate brain behaviour relationships between the altered/disadvantaged functional connectivity and mental health and cognition [ 64 ]. This conclusion supports the notion that the functional connectivity alterations observed in IA are associated with specific adolescent behaviours as well as the fact that functional connectivity can be utilised as a platform onto which to compare various neurologic conditions.

Limitations/strengths

There were several limitations that were related to the conduction of the review as well as the data extracted from the articles. Firstly, the study followed a systematic literature review design when analysing the fMRI studies. The data pulled from these imaging studies were namely qualitative and were subject to bias contrasting the quantitative nature of statistical analysis. Components of the study, such as sample sizes, effect sizes, and demographics were not weighted or controlled. The second limitation brought up by a similar review was the lack of a universal consensus of terminology given IA [ 47 ]. Globally, authors writing about this topic use an array of terminology including online gaming addiction, internet addiction, internet gaming disorder, and problematic internet use. Often, authors use multiple terms interchangeably which makes it difficult to depict the subtle similarities and differences between the terms.

Reviewing the explicit limitations in each of the included studies, two major limitations were brought up in many of the articles. One was relating to the cross-sectional nature of the included studies. Due to the inherent qualities of a cross-sectional study, the studies did not provide clear evidence that IA played a causal role towards the development of the adolescent brain. While several biopsychosocial factors mediate these interactions, task-based measures that combine executive functions with imaging results reinforce the assumed connection between the two that is utilised by the papers studying IA. Another limitation regarded the small sample size of the included studies, which averaged to around 20 participants. The small sample size can influence the generalisation of the results as well as the effectiveness of statistical analyses. Ultimately, both included study specific limitations illustrate the need for future studies to clarify the causal relationship between the alterations of FC and the development of IA.

Another vital limitation was the limited number of studies applying imaging techniques for investigations on IA in adolescents were a uniformly Far East collection of studies. The reason for this was because the studies included in this review were the only fMRI studies that were found that adhered to the strict adolescent age restriction. The adolescent age range given by the WHO (10–19 years old) [ 65 ] was strictly followed. It is important to note that a multitude of studies found in the initial search utilised an older adolescent demographic that was slightly higher than the WHO age range and had a mean age that was outside of the limitations. As a result, the results of this review are biased and based on the 12 studies that met the inclusion and exclusion criteria.

Regarding the global nature of the research, although the journals that the studies were published in were all established western journals, the collection of studies were found to all originate from Asian countries, namely China and Korea. Subsequently, it pulls into question if the results and measures from these studies are generalisable towards a western population. As stated previously, Asian countries have a higher prevalence of IA, which may be the reasoning to why the majority of studies are from there [ 8 ]. However, in an additional search including other age groups, it was found that a high majority of all FC studies on IA were done in Asian countries. Interestingly, western papers studying fMRI FC were primarily focused on gambling and substance-use addiction disorders. The western papers on IA were less focused on fMRI FC but more on other components of IA such as sleep, game-genre, and other non-imaging related factors. This demonstrated an overall lack of western fMRI studies on IA. It is important to note that both western and eastern fMRI studies on IA presented an overall lack on children and adolescents in general.

Despite the several limitations, this review provided a clear reflection on the state of the data. The strengths of the review include the strict inclusion/exclusion criteria that filtered through studies and only included ones that contained a purely adolescent sample. As a result, the information presented in this review was specific to the review’s aims. Given the sparse nature of adolescent specific fMRI studies on the FC changes in IA, this review successfully provided a much-needed niche representation of adolescent specific results. Furthermore, the review provided a thorough functional explanation of the DMN, ECN, SN and reward pathway making it accessible to readers new to the topic.

Future directions and implications

Through the search process of the review, there were more imaging studies focused on older adolescence and adulthood. Furthermore, finding a review that covered a strictly adolescent population, focused on FC changes, and was specifically depicting IA, was proven difficult. Many related reviews, such as Tereshchenko and Kasparov (2019), looked at risk factors related to the biopsychosocial model, but did not tackle specific alterations in specific structural or functional changes in the brain [ 66 ]. Weinstein (2017) found similar structural and functional results as well as the role IA has in altering response inhibition and reward valuation in adolescents with IA [ 47 ]. Overall, the accumulated findings only paint an emerging pattern which aligns with similar substance-use and gambling disorders. Future studies require more specificity in depicting the interactions between neural networks, as well as more literature on adolescent and comorbid populations. One future field of interest is the incorporation of more task-based fMRI data. Advances in resting-state fMRI methods have yet to be reflected or confirmed in task-based fMRI methods [ 62 ]. Due to the fact that network connectivity is shaped by different tasks, it is critical to confirm that the findings of the resting state fMRI studies also apply to the task based ones [ 62 ]. Subsequently, work in this area will confirm if intrinsic connectivity networks function in resting state will function similarly during goal directed behaviour [ 62 ]. An elevated focus on adolescent populations as well as task-based fMRI methodology will help uncover to what extent adolescent network connectivity maturation facilitates behavioural and cognitive development [ 62 ].

A treatment implication is the potential usage of bupropion for the treatment of IA. Bupropion has been previously used to treat patients with gambling disorder and has been effective in decreasing overall gambling behaviour as well as money spent while gambling [ 67 ]. Bae et al. (2018) found a decrease in clinical symptoms of IA in line with a 12-week bupropion treatment [ 31 ]. The study found that bupropion altered the FC of both the DMN and ECN which in turn decreased impulsivity and attentional deficits for the individuals with IA [ 31 ]. Interventions like bupropion illustrate the importance of understanding the fundamental mechanisms that underlie disorders like IA.

The goal for this review was to summarise the current literature on functional connectivity changes in adolescents with internet addiction. The findings answered the primary research questions that were directed at FC alterations within several networks of the adolescent brain and how that influenced their behaviour and development. Overall, the research demonstrated several wide-ranging effects that influenced the DMN, SN, ECN, and reward centres. Additionally, the findings gave ground to important details such as the maturation of the adolescent brain, the high prevalence of Asian originated studies, and the importance of task-based studies in this field. The process of making this review allowed for a thorough understanding IA and adolescent brain interactions.

Given the influx of technology and media in the lives and education of children and adolescents, an increase in prevalence and focus on internet related behavioural changes is imperative towards future children/adolescent mental health. Events such as COVID-19 act to expose the consequences of extended internet usage on the development and lifestyle of specifically young people. While it is important for parents and older generations to be wary of these changes, it is important for them to develop a base understanding of the issue and not dismiss it as an all-bad or all-good scenario. Future research on IA will aim to better understand the causal relationship between IA and psychological symptoms that coincide with it. The current literature regarding functional connectivity changes in adolescents is limited and requires future studies to test with larger sample sizes, comorbid populations, and populations outside Far East Asia.

This review aimed to demonstrate the inner workings of how IA alters the connection between the primary behavioural networks in the adolescent brain. Predictably, the present answers merely paint an unfinished picture that does not necessarily depict internet usage as overwhelmingly positive or negative. Alternatively, the research points towards emerging patterns that can direct individuals on the consequences of certain variables or risk factors. A clearer depiction of the mechanisms of IA would allow physicians to screen and treat the onset of IA more effectively. Clinically, this could be in the form of more streamlined and accurate sessions of CBT or family therapy, targeting key symptoms of IA. Alternatively clinicians could potentially prescribe treatment such as bupropion to target FC in certain regions of the brain. Furthermore, parental education on IA is another possible avenue of prevention from a public health standpoint. Parents who are aware of the early signs and onset of IA will more effectively handle screen time, impulsivity, and minimize the risk factors surrounding IA.

Additionally, an increased attention towards internet related fMRI research is needed in the West, as mentioned previously. Despite cultural differences, Western countries may hold similarities to the eastern countries with a high prevalence of IA, like China and Korea, regarding the implications of the internet and IA. The increasing influence of the internet on the world may contribute to an overall increase in the global prevalence of IA. Nonetheless, the high saturation of eastern studies in this field should be replicated with a Western sample to determine if the same FC alterations occur. A growing interest in internet related research and education within the West will hopefully lead to the knowledge of healthier internet habits and coping strategies among parents with children and adolescents. Furthermore, IA research has the potential to become a crucial proxy for which to study adolescent brain maturation and development.

Supporting information

S1 checklist. prisma checklist..

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pmen.0000022.s001

S1 Appendix. Search strategies with all the terms.

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pmen.0000022.s002

S1 Data. Article screening records with details of categorized content.

https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pmen.0000022.s003

Acknowledgments

The authors thank https://www.stockio.com/free-clipart/brain-01 (with attribution to Stockio.com); and https://www.rawpixel.com/image/6442258/png-sticker-vintage for the free images used to create Figs 2 – 4 .

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Canine bacterial endocarditis: a text mining and topics modeling analysis as an approach for a systematic review.

1. Introduction

2. materials and methods, 2.1. literature search and descriptive statistics, 2.2. text mining analysis, 2.3. topic analysis, 3.1. descriptive statistics, 3.2. text mining, 3.3. topics analysis, 4. discussion, 5. conclusions, author contributions, institutional review board statement, data availability statement, conflicts of interest.

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Click here to enlarge figure

Inclusion criteria (labels)
	Language	English
	Years	1900–2024
	Topic	Bacterial endocarditis in dog
	Source	Articles and/or Reviews
	Available	Abstract, full text, authors, journal
Exclusion criteria (labels)	Other/many species	Reports relating to other species (feline, humans, rabbits, etc.)
	Experimental studies	Reports relating to in vitro studies and/or animal models studies
	Reviews on other related topics	Reports relating to infectious diseases, reviews on inflammatory diseases, and/or other cardiac diseases; studies on dog bites
	Studies on emergency care	Reports relating to emergency and/or critical care
	Studies on medical treatments	Reports relating to drugs, and/or medical treatment

No.	Authors/Year/Journal	Title of the Publication	GC
1	Breitschwerdt, E.B., et al., 1995, Journal of Clinical Microbiology [ ]	Endocarditis in a Dog Due to Infection with a Novel Bartonella Subspecies	196
2	MacDonald, K.A., et al., 2004, Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine [ ]	A Prospective Study of Canine Infective Endocarditis in Northern California (1999–2001): Emergence of Bartonella as a Prevalent Etiologic Agent	134
3	Chomel, B.B., et al., 2009, Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences [ ]	Bartonella endocarditis: A Pathology Shared by Animal Reservoirs and Patients	117
4	Kordick, D.L., et al., 1996, International Journal of Systematic Bacteriology [ ]	Bartonella vinsonii subsp. berkhoffii subsp. nov., Isolated from Dogs, Bartonella vinsonii subsp. vinsonii, and an Emended Description of Bartonella vinsonii	117
5	Álvarez-Fernández, A., et al., 2018, Parasites and Vectors [ ]	Bartonella Infections in Cats and Dogs Including Zoonotic Aspects	104

Words (TF-IDF ≥ 0.1)	Associated Words (Correlation Grade ≥ 0.2)
Bartonella	Ectoparasite (0.53); lifethreaten (0.53); sequenc (0.53); hensela (0.51); gene (0.50); titer (0.49); restrict (0.47); glta (0.46); speci (0.46); Chilean (0.45); country (0.45); freeroam (0.45); half (0.45); heavi (0.45); linar (0.45); montt (0.45); puerto (0.45); seroprev (0.45); south (0.45); stray (0.45); infest (0.44); California (0.43); chain (0.43); june (0.43); polymera (0.43); American (0.42); rang (0.41); vectorborn (0.41)
Aortic	Coronaric (0.48); thougth (0.41)
Disease	Cohort (0.59); agematch (0.57); cardiovascularrel (0.57); comparison (0.57); confound (0.57); connect (0.57); designhistor (0.57); estim (0.57); flora (0.57); marker (0.57); model (0.57); noncardiovascularrel (0.57); nonperiodont (0.57); objectiveto (0.57); periodont (0.57); priority (0.57); probabl (0.57); procedurescox (0.57); relevanceth (0.57); resultssignif (0.57); immunemedi (0.55); stage (0.53); proport (0.51); broadspectrum (0.50); contribut (0.50); difficulti (0.50); longterm (0.50); underreport (0.50); worst (0.50); cardiomyopathi (0.49); major (0.45); preval (0.42); higher (0.41)
Vinsonii	berkhoffii (0.87); subspeci (0.86); diver (0.59); effort (0.59); elucid (0.59); meningoenceph (0.59); vascul (0.59); acccommod (0.55); atcc (0.55); believ (0.55); closest (0.55); composit (0.55); emend (0.55); granulomat (0.55); indic (0.55); relat (0.55); rrnas (0.55); separ (0.55); neutrophil (0.54); propo (0.54); repeat (0.54); recogn (0.53); seroreact (0.53); manifest (0.52); subsp (0.52); level (0.51); insert (0.50); uveitis (0.49); potenti (0.47); rrna (0.47); titer (0.47); antibody (0.46); becam (0.41); sequenc (0.41).
Mitral	Fibrosa (0.50); normal (0.46); intact (0.43); holosystol (0.42); concern (0.41); former (0.41); haemodynam (0.41); incompet lipoid (0.41); mucoid (0.41); nodular (0.41); stimuli (0.41); synopsi (0.41)
Valv	California (0.47); antemortem (0.46); clarridgeiaelik (0.46); longer (0.46); northern (0.46); frlp (0.46); postmortem (0.41)

Topic Number	Label of the Topic	Papers (n)/from Year
1	Infective endocarditis and bacterial isolation	8/1987
2	Case reports on endocarditis	20/1977
3	Clinical findings and predisposing factors	21/1959
4	Causative agents	22/1975
5	Outcomes and biomarkers	15/1970

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Previti, A.; Biondi, V.; Passantino, A.; Or, M.E.; Pugliese, M. Canine Bacterial Endocarditis: A Text Mining and Topics Modeling Analysis as an Approach for a Systematic Review. Microorganisms 2024 , 12 , 1237. https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms12061237

Previti A, Biondi V, Passantino A, Or ME, Pugliese M. Canine Bacterial Endocarditis: A Text Mining and Topics Modeling Analysis as an Approach for a Systematic Review. Microorganisms . 2024; 12(6):1237. https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms12061237

Previti, Annalisa, Vito Biondi, Annamaria Passantino, Mehmet Erman Or, and Michela Pugliese. 2024. "Canine Bacterial Endocarditis: A Text Mining and Topics Modeling Analysis as an Approach for a Systematic Review" Microorganisms 12, no. 6: 1237. https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms12061237

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