Which theory explains that differences in material resources and power shape social structure?

• A. Proactive Interference
• B. Internal Locus of Control
• C. Anomie
• D. Conflict Theory

Answer: (D)

Conflict theory explains how differences in material resources and power shape social structure. It argues that groups compete for scarce resources and that those who hold economic and political power design and maintain social institutions—like laws, education, and housing—in ways that preserve their advantage. This perspective shows why social hierarchies persist and how social change often arises from struggles between groups with opposing interests, such as classes or other power-based groups. For example, disparities in wealth influence who gets access to quality education or healthcare, which in turn reinforces the overall structure of society.

Proactive interference is a memory phenomenon with no direct link to how society is organized. Internal locus of control is a personality trait about an individual’s belief in personal control, not a theory about societal structure. Anomie describes a state of normlessness during rapid change, not the power-driven organization of social order.