Sociology and Criminology Sociology is the study of human society and social behavior by examining the groups and social institutions that people form. These include families, tribes, communities, and governments, as well as a variety of social, religious, political, business, and other organizations. Sociologists study the behavior and interaction of groups, tracing their origin and growth. Some sociologists are concerned primarily with the characteristics of social groups and institutions. Others are more interested in the ways in which individuals are affected by the groups to which they belong.
Interpersonal relationships are at the heart of almost every business, profession, and occupation.
For that reason, the study of sociology is a very practical academic discipline. Areas of specialization include medical sociology, criminology, race and ethnic relations, social theory, sociology of sport, sociology of law, and sociology of gender. A medical sociologist, for example, might study the incidence of lung cancer in an area contaminated by industrial pollutants. The results of sociological research often aid educators, lawmakers, administrators, and others interested in resolving social problems and formulating public policy. Some sociologists are primarily administrators who apply their professional knowledge in areas as diverse as public opinion analysis, law enforcement, public relations, personnel administration, regional and community planning, and health services planning.