A Level Sociology Education AQA Practice Exam

What did Mac and Ghail (1994) find about 'macho lads' in school?

1. They were leaders in academic achievement

2. They preferred arts over sciences

3. They viewed hard work as effeminate and tended to underachieve

4. They actively supported girls in their studies

The correct answer is: They viewed hard work as effeminate and tended to underachieve

Mac and Ghail's 1994 research highlighted the attitudes and behaviors of a group referred to as 'macho lads' within the school setting. They found that these students held a perspective that equated hard work and academic dedication with femininity, which led them to reject these ideals as part of their identification with a masculine, macho persona. As a result, this attitude contributed to their tendency to underachieve academically. The social dynamics created a space where engaging fully with academic pursuits was seen as contrary to their constructed identity, ultimately restricting their educational success. In contrast, the other options present different narratives about student behaviors that do not align with the findings regarding 'macho lads.' The suggestion of them being leaders in academic achievement directly contradicts their underachievement. Similarly, the preference for arts versus sciences and the idea of supporting girls in their studies do not reflect the distinct identity and behaviors that Mac and Ghail identified among this group of boys.