Understanding Social Problems

These flashcards cover key concepts related to the social problems approach, including definitions, processes, and stages of social change movements.

Social Problem

A condition that undermines the well-being of members of a society and is a matter of public controversy.

Objective Approach

An approach to understanding social problems that relies on data and facts to identify issues that impact millions of people.

Subjective Approach

An approach to defining social problems based on individual perspectives, where some may view an issue as a problem while others may not.

Social Constructionism

The belief that social problems are created as conditions are perceived as undesirable and needing change.

Claims Making

The process of convincing the public and important figures that an issue should be defined as a social problem.

Activists

Individuals who are members of social movements and are at the forefront of claims making.

Experts

Individuals with authority or specialized knowledge who seek to influence public perception of social problems.

Critical Mass

The point at which enough people become aware of and mobilize around a social issue to create significant public support.

Public Reaction

The way in which the public responds to a social problem, which can be measured through opinion polls.

Policy Outcomes

The public's reaction to enacted laws aimed at addressing social problems, which may lead to changes or revisions of those laws.

Social Change Movements

Collective efforts that arise around social problems, progressing through stages of emergence, coalescence, formalization, and decline.