Understanding Social Problems

 Social problems are conditions that negatively affect individuals and society and require collective action to resolve. According to the course textbook, social problems involve both an objective component and a subjective component. The objective component refers to measurable facts, such as poverty rates or crime statistics, while the subjective component refers to how people perceive those conditions as harmful or needing change. This shows that not all harmful conditions are automatically recognized as social problems unless society defines them as such. This process is known as the social construction of social problems, meaning social problems develop based on public awareness, discussion, and shared meaning.

Textbook reference: https://open.lib.umn.edu/socialproblems/

Sociologists use three major theoretical perspectives to explain social problems: functionalism, conflict theory, and symbolic interactionism. Functionalism views society as a system where each part works together to maintain stability, and social problems occur when parts of the system fail. Conflict theory focuses on inequality and argues that social problems result from competition over limited resources between powerful and less powerful groups. Symbolic interactionism focuses on individual interactions and how meanings and labels influence behavior and perception. These perspectives help explain why social problems exist and how society responds to them.
Textbook reference: https://saylordotorg.github.io/text_social-problems-continuity-and-change/

The theoretical perspective that appeals to me most is conflict theory because it explains how inequality creates many social problems. Conflict theory argues that social problems exist because powerful groups maintain control over resources, while less powerful groups struggle. For example, poverty can be explained by unequal access to education, employment, and healthcare. Functionalism might argue that inequality motivates people to work harder, while symbolic interactionism would focus on how people living in poverty are labeled and treated differently. However, conflict theory best explains how social inequality creates long-term disadvantages and affects opportunities.

According to Gallup Poll Trends, crime remains a major concern among Americans, with many people believing crime rates are increasing. This connects to the subjective definition of a social problem, as public perception influences whether crime is seen as a serious issue. Even if crime statistics change, public concern and media attention affect how society responds. This also reflects the emergence of social problems, where awareness leads to public discussion and demands for solutions.
Gallup Poll Link: https://news.gallup.com/poll/

Walmart and Sam’s Club ‘Fight Hunger and Spark Change’ - The Apopka Voice


A nonprofit organization in my community working to address social problems is Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida. Their mission is to fight hunger and food insecurity by providing meals and resources to families in need. Hunger is a social problem connected to poverty and inequality. Second Harvest distributes food, partners with community programs, and helps individuals access resources to improve their lives. Their efforts help reduce the effects of poverty and improve community well-being.

Organization Contact Information:
Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida
Website: https://www.feedhopenow.org/
Address: 411 Mercy Drive, Orlando, FL 32805
Phone: (407) 295-1066

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