A Level Sociology Education AQA Practice Exam

According to Douglas (1964), what attitude do working-class parents have towards their children’s education?

1. They place high value on education

2. They are very ambitious for their children

3. They show less ambition and encouragement

4. They invest heavily in tutoring

The correct answer is: They show less ambition and encouragement

Douglas's research indicates that working-class parents exhibit less ambition and encouragement regarding their children's education compared to middle-class parents. He argued that this stems from a variety of factors, including economic constraints, lower educational qualifications themselves, and a focus on immediate survival and work over long-term educational goals. This perspective effectively highlights the differences in engagement and expectations between socio-economic classes. Working-class families may not prioritize education in the same way as middle-class families, who often view educational attainment as crucial for improving life chances. This lack of emphasis from working-class parents can result in lower aspirations for their children's educational success, potentially influencing the children's own attitudes towards schooling and their academic performance. In contrast, the other options suggest a more positive or proactive stance on education that does not align with Douglas's findings. For example, claims that working-class parents place a high value on education, are ambitious for their children, or invest heavily in tutoring overlook the socio-economic challenges that often limit such involvement. Therefore, option C accurately reflects the conclusions drawn by Douglas regarding the educational attitudes of working-class parents.