Week 7: Introduction to Social Problems
1. Definition of Social Problems
A social problem is a condition or a situation that is perceived to be undesirable, harmful, or threatening
to the well-being of society and which requires collective action for resolution. Social problems affect a
significant number of people and are seen as needing government or societal intervention.
Key Definitions:
According to Richard Fuller and Richard Myers (1941): “A social problem is a condition which many
people consider undesirable and want to correct.”
Sociologically, a social problem must not only be widespread but also recognized by society as
problematic.
2. Characteristics of Social Problems
1. Social in origin: Social problems stem from societal arrangements, behaviors, and values.
2. Harmful to individuals or groups: Theyc negatively impact people’s physical, emotional, or social well-
being.
3. Widespread: Affects a large number of people, not just individuals.
4. Perceived as a problem: It must be recognized by a significant part of the public as an issue.
5. Subject to change over time: What is seen as a social problem in one era may not be in another (e.g.,
same-sex marriage).
6. Calls for collective action: Solving them usually requires public policy, legislation, or community
efforts.
3. Types of Social Problems
Social problems can be classified into:
Economic Problems: Poverty, unemployment, inflation.
Health-related Issues: Drug abuse, mental illness, HIV/AIDS.
Political Problems: Corruption, poor governance, electoral fraud.
Cultural/Social Issues: Gender inequality, racism, religious intolerance.
Environmental Problems: Climate change, pollution, deforestation.
4. Criteria for Identifying Social Problems
For a condition to be identified as a social problem, it must:
Contradict some societal values or norms.
Be caused by social factors rather than personal ones.
Affect a considerable number of people.
Demand a collective response.
Be remediable through human intervention.
5. Objectivist vs. Subjectivist Perspectives
Objectivist Approach:
Views social problems as conditions that can be measured and objectively identified.
E.g., high crime rates or poverty levels indicate a problem exists.
Subjectivist Approach:
Focuses on people's perceptions and beliefs about social conditions.
A condition becomes a social problem only if it is recognized as such by society.
Example: Homosexuality was once widely viewed as a problem; today, in many societies, it is not.
6. The Constructionist Approach to Social Problems
This approach argues that social problems are constructed through:
Media narratives
Political discourse
Advocacy by interest groups
Public opinion
Key idea: Social problems are not just “out there,” they are labeled and defined through social
processes.
Stages of Constructing Social Problems:
1. Claim-making: Individuals or groups bring attention to a condition.
2. Media coverage: Spreads awareness and frames the issue.
3. Public reaction: The public engages and takes sides.
4. Policy development: Governments or institutions respond through laws or reforms.
7. The Role of Sociologists in Addressing Social Problems
Identification: Studying patterns and causes of social problems.
Explanation: Providing theories and data to explain issues.
Evaluation: Assessing the effectiveness of policies and interventions.
Advocacy: Promoting social justice and policy change based on research.
Examples of Social Problems in Nigeria
Youth Unemployment
Corruption and Bribery
Gender-based Violence
Religious Conflicts
Insecurity (Boko Haram, banditry)
Poor Healthcare Infrastructure
Conclusion
Understanding social problems requires both analytical and empathetic approaches. Students must
learn to assess social conditions using sociological theories, data, and real-world observations to
understand how these problems emerge, persist, and can be resolved.
