Sage Sociology Exchange Social Problems

Question:

Some of my students get overwhelmed by the discussion of so many social problems. What are some ways to address these feelings?

Answer:

Provided by Sage Author: A. Javier Treviño, Wheaton College

Teaching about social problems means dealing with issues that are troubling, harmful, or just plain distressing. It is understandable that our students would feel “it's all bad news,” that something needs to be done, that things need to change. If sociology is the discipline that studies social problems, our students will want to know what solutions it has to offer. Indeed, they will be interested in finding out what practical actions they can take to make a difference. 

For several years now I have been advocating for “service sociology”—a socially responsible and mission-oriented sociology of action and alleviation. Its main goal is to address social problems by helping people meet their essential needs and concerns through civic engagement, community service, and volunteerism. It is in this culture of service, with its numerous pressing needs and concerns, that we can consider the emergence of a sociology of social problems based on service.
 
So, one way in which we address student’s feeling of being overwhelmed about social problems is to suggest in every chapter of our textbook, Investigating Social Problems, ways in which they can get personally involved in helping to alleviate troubling issues in their own communities. These range from volunteering at the college food pantry, building affordable housing with Habitat for Humanity, starting a chapter of Students for Sensible Drug Policy, joining a picket like for striking union workers, tutoring at the Boys and Girls Club, or interning at a local senior center. You can also reference the questions below for use in your course. 

Questions You Can Use with Your Students
from the "Ask Yourself" Section of Investigating Social Problems

1. Think of a social issue about which you and your peers have expressed concern. How do you think this issue affects other people your age but from a social class different from yours? A different race or ethnicity? 
2. What troubling situations do you see in your community (neighborhood, campus)? How do these fit, or not fit, the definition of social problems given in the course? Do they have both objective and subjective aspects? Explain.

>> To learn more, get a free inspection copy of Investigating Social Problems, which includes other sources of inspiration and ideas.