University Sociology Report: Social Class and Sexuality Matters

This report examines the concepts of social class and sexuality within a sociological context, drawing upon the works of Brenda Allen and other researchers. The report defines social class as a stratification based on economic and social status, and sexuality as encompassing various aspects of identity and attraction, including homosexuality, bisexuality, and heterosexuality. The report also includes reflections on workplace romantic relationships and the impact of social class on communication. It highlights the power dynamics associated with social classes and the potential impact of romantic relationships on workplace productivity and morale. The report provides definitions, summaries, and reflections on communication, social identity, and workplace dynamics. The report explores the intersection of these concepts and their implications for individuals and society.

Running head: COMMUNICATION
COMMUNICATION
Name of the Student
Name of the University
Author Note

1COMMUNICATION
Chapter 5: Social Class Matters
Definitions
Social Class: A term used to refer to social divisions based on the economic and social
status of the residents of the society (Carter, 2014).
Networking: A term used to refer to the interaction between people with the aim to
exchange information. It also aims at developing the social or professional contacts of a person.
Summary
According to Brenda Allen, social class is based on the social stratification which refers
to the designation of the groups of society based on varied criteria. The higher rank holders in
this category enjoyed more respect, value, privileges and status as compared to those who
belonged to the lower ranks (Allen, 2010).
Reflection Matters
3. The construction of the social class has always been related to the power dynamics in
the society since the time of its establishment. In my opinion, the social class had always been
primarily ascriptive, Leading to the stark contrast between the incomes of the rich and the poor.
4. Reports on the issue of social classes are published in the newspapers and the other
media from time to time. These articles generally do not report on the poor members of the
society or the members of the working class of the society. I feel that journalists maintain a
distance from these people who belong to the lower classes.

2COMMUNICATION
Chapter 6: Sexuality Matters
Definitions
Sexual Orientation: The term refers to the sexual identity of a person that is determined
by the gender of the person towards whom they feel attracted. This attraction may be both either
romantic or sexual or both.
Homosexuality: The term refers to the attraction of a person towards the members of the
society who belong to the same gender (Cameron-Ellis, 2013).
Summary
According to Brenda Allen, sexuality is a complex topic of discussion. It involves the
aspects of both fantasy and reality and a number of physiological issues. There are different
sexual categories that are in discussion in the modern day society. The three most prominently
used categories are homosexuality, bisexuality and heterosexuality (Vrangalova & Savin-
Williams, 2012; Allen, 2010).
Reflection Matters
6. I have been a witness to a romantic relationship in my workplace. The romantic
relationships at work are a commonplace occurrence, due to the increased number of female
employees at the workplace. The extended work hours contribute to the increased number of
romantic liaisons at the offices.
7. I feel that the workplaces should have some policies against the issues of romantic
relationships. These romantic liaisons may hamper the dynamics of the place of work. It may
affect the productivity of the concerned employees and favoritism on the part of the employees
thereby affecting the employee morale.

3COMMUNICATION
References
Allen, B. J. (2010). Difference matters: Communicating social identity. Waveland Press.
Cameron-Ellis, J. A. (2013). Church and homosexuality: The relationship between
individual religious beliefs, attitudes and the quality of contact (Doctoral
dissertation, University of Pretoria).
Carter, B. (2014). Capitalism, Class Conflict and the New Middle Class (RLE Social
Theory). Routledge.
Vrangalova, Z., & Savin-Williams, R. C. (2012). Mostly heterosexual and mostly
gay/lesbian: Evidence for new sexual orientation identities. Archives of sexual
behavior, 41(1), 85-101.