A focus on credentials leads to increased ___________ among adults in a society.

• A. Labeling.
• B. Tracking.
• C. Self-fulfilling prophecy.
• D. Recidivism.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the key terms in the question. The question asks about the social consequence of focusing on credentials among adults in a society.
2. Step 2: Define each option to clarify their meanings: Labeling refers to the process by which individuals are identified and categorized based on certain characteristics; Tracking is the practice of grouping students or individuals based on ability or achievement; Self-fulfilling prophecy is when a belief or expectation influences behavior to make the belief come true; Recidivism is the tendency of a convicted criminal to reoffend.
3. Step 3: Analyze how a focus on credentials relates to these concepts. Credentials often serve as labels that categorize individuals, which can influence how they are perceived and treated in society.
4. Step 4: Recognize that focusing on credentials can lead to labeling, where adults are classified and judged based on their qualifications, potentially affecting their social identity and opportunities.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the most appropriate sociological concept describing the effect of focusing on credentials is labeling, as it directly involves categorizing individuals based on social markers like credentials.