Description
Study human society and social behavior by examining the groups and social institutions that people form, as well as various social, religious, political, and business organizations. May study the behavior and interaction of groups, trace their origin and growth, and analyze the influence of group activities on individual members.
- • Prepare publications and reports containing research findings.
- • Analyze and interpret data to increase the understanding of human social behavior.
- • Plan and conduct research to develop and test theories about societal issues such as crime, group relations, poverty, and aging.
- • Collect data about the attitudes, values, and behaviors of people in groups, using observation, interviews, and review of documents.
- • Develop, implement, and evaluate methods of data collection, such as questionnaires or interviews.
- • Teach sociology.
- • Direct work of statistical clerks, statisticians, and others who compile and evaluate research data.
- • Consult with and advise individuals such as administrators, social workers, and legislators regarding social issues and policies, as well as the implications of research findings.
- • Collaborate with research workers in other disciplines.
- • Develop approaches to the solution of groups' problems, based on research findings in sociology and related disciplines.
- • Observe group interactions and role affiliations to collect data, identify problems, evaluate progress, and determine the need for additional change.
- • Develop problem intervention procedures, using techniques such as interviews, consultations, role playing, and participant observation of group interactions.
- • Present research findings at professional meetings.
- • Explain sociological research to the general public.
- • Write grants to obtain funding for research projects.
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O*NET occupational data (work activities, skills, knowledge).
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This site includes information from O*NET by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under the CC BY 4.0 license. Career Clutch has modified some of this information for student readability. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.
Last reviewed: Jan 2026
