Religion, Socioeconomic Status, and Sexual Morality: An Application of Reference Group Theory

Abstract

Reference group theory is used t o help resolve an anomaly: the relationships among religiosity, socioeconomic status, and sexual morality. Past research has shown that while SES and religiosity are positively related to each other, SES is related to liberal sexual attitudes and religiosity is related to conservative sexual attitudes. SES and religiosity are therefore working at cross-purposes and represent competing frames of reference for some persons. Specifications of reference group theory helps to pinpoint the conditions under which particular choices are made. The 1972-78 NORC data set is used to test specific propositions extrapolated from Robert Merton's analysis of reference groups. The findings show that religious group involvement has greater impact than SES collectivity. The influence of religiosity is, however, dependent upon a conservative milieu. For generally liberal denominations, there is less necessity for a choice between the competing reference points; thus, neither religion nor SES overwhelms the other. These results and reference group theory suggest areas for future investigation. 0 1 9 8 3 by The Sociological Quarterly. All rights reserved. 0038-0253/83/1500-0545$00.75

Deviating from Religious Norms and the Mental Health of Conservative Protestants

“…According to reference group theory, social groups function as frames of reference, either as comparative reference groups or as normative reference groups (Bock et al 1983). Individuals use comparative reference groups in order to evaluate themselves in comparison to others, while normative reference groups provide individuals with a source of norms and values (Bock et al 1983;Cochran and Beeghley 1991). Scholars have noted the difficulty in distinguishing between comparative and normative reference groups, as individuals may use specific groups as sources of comparison and normative regulation.…”

“…Reference group and cognitive dissonance theories provide general theoretical frameworks to help answer this question. According to reference group theory, social groups function as frames of reference, either as comparative reference groups or as normative reference groups (Bock et al 1983). Individuals use comparative reference groups in order to evaluate themselves in comparison to others, while normative reference groups provide individuals with a source of norms and values (Bock et al 1983;Cochran and Beeghley 1991).…”

If happiness is relative, against whom do we compare ourselves? Implications for labour supply

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How Religiosity Affects An Intention To Quit Smoking Among Young Adults

“…According to reference group theory, the degree to which a group serves as an influential reference point for an individual is a function of few factors namely similarity in status to the group, sharing the values and beliefs of the group, having clarity about the group's values and beliefs, having sustained interaction with the group, and whether an individual defines other group members as significant. This theory is readily applicable to understanding religious influences on https: //dx.doi.org/10.15405/epsbs.2018.07.02.93 Corresponding Author: Abdul Rahman Zahari Selection and peer-review under (Bock, Beeghley, & Mixon, 1983;Yong et al, 2009;Bailey et al, 2015 (Yong et al, 2009). In brief, this study was designed to examine the components of Islamic religion towards quitting smoking among young adults.…”