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1. The social construction and consequences of social problems
2. The role of power and ideology in the definition of social problems.
3. The causes of social problems
4. Evaluation and consideration of proposed solutions to social problems.
5. Consideration of methods of research and analysis
6. Additional topics may vary

At the conclusion of this course, the student should be able to:

1. demonstrate understanding of major social problems concerning the U.S.;
2. place local, regional, and national social problems in global context;
3. identify, and distinguish between, causes and consequences of social problems;
4. analyze social problems using sociological approaches and concepts;
5. analyze and interpret qualitative and quantitative information about social problems;
6. identify and evaluate policies that address social problems and assess the policies’ impact on society.

May include:
Objective exams
Written assignments
Application exercises
Research project
Field Journal
Oral Presentations
Reflection and discussion
Small group activities
Out-of-class activities

Eitzen, Social Problems
Eitzen, Baca Zinn, Eitzen Smith, Social Problems: Unbound
Henslin, Social Problems: A Down to Earth Approach
Leon-Guerrero, Anna. Social Problems: Community, Policy, and Social Action
Macionis, Social Problems