My Sociological Lens

Article reviews provide students with an opportunity to consider a condition or
institution of society through a sociological lens. Often, that lens may be critical of
the particular topic under study. These articles are intentionally chosen to
strengthen critical thinking and expand students’ ability to apply the sociological
imagination. Students are strongly encouraged to approach each article with an
open mind eager to rethink the issue or topic at hand. At times, articles may cause
feelings of discomfort or perhaps even anger. Reflection on personal reaction to
these articles is part of this exercise, and an opportunity to further explore what you
think you know, why you think you know it, and what that perceived knowledge
affords you.
Article Review #1 centers around the issue of welfare for low income mothers and
the burdens of proof and identity the state places in order for families to receive
assistance.
Students need to first read the article for complete understanding of what is being
stated. Comprehension is often strengthened when articles are read a couple of
times. There are a few guiding questions posed below, but students are encouraged
to provide a personal reflection on the concepts and claims made in the article.
Article Reviews are expected to be thoughtful, free from knee-jerk reaction
responses, and sociological in approach. It’s okay to talk about your knowledge
around the topic and what was challenged for you- it’s not okay for you to dismiss
the article if it goes against your held opinions. Thoughtful critiques, however, are
welcome- but please make sure any counter claims you make are supported with
easily discoverable information.

Remember, the guiding questions are just that, guiding questions. That is, these
questions are offered up as a way to help you begin thinking about what is stated in
the article. It is expected that you discuss points and make observations outside
these questions.

Guiding questions:
1) In New Mexico, women who are in need of assistance cannot get help unless
the mother is willing (or able) to name who the father is. What are the
motivations for this requirement?
2) Hager describes the requirement for naming the other biological parent as a
requirement for assistance. This requirement places mothers who escaped a
violent relationship, for example, in a vulnerable position. In what way does
this minimize, or shine light on, domestic violence?
3) How does the system of naming biological parent mitigate childhood poverty
and hunger?
4) How does the need for aid result in the discouragement of families remaining
intact?
5) In what ways has the stagnation of welfare benefits contributed to the issues
described in the article?
Students are able to determine when their review is complete. It’s not expected that
you respond to every single point in the article, but rather, you are able to articulate
a clear familiarity with the article and offer a sound response/review of what you
read or wish to discuss. In general, it’s expected papers will average between 3-4
pages.
Please make sure to proofread your work carefully. If you quote the article, please
cite it properly (APA). If you use another source, please cite it properly (APA).
Reading your paper out loud to yourself, your dog, a friend, or a tree will help you to
hear any errors that may be contained in your paper. Submit your best work.

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