1st Edition

Social Problems An Advocate Group Approach

By Sara Towe Horsfall Copyright 2012
    384 Pages
    by Routledge

    384 Pages
    by Routledge

    This book represents a truly innovative and empowering approach to social problems. Instead of focusing solely on a seemingly tireless list of major problems, Sara Towe Horsfall considers how select key issues can be solved and pays particular attention to the advocate groups already on the front lines. Horsfall first provides a robust theoretical foundation to the study of social problems before moving on to the problems themselves, examining each through the lens of specific advocate groups working towards solutions. This concise and accessible text also incorporates useful learning tools including study questions to help reinforce reading comprehension, questions for further thought to encourage critical thinking and classroom discussion, a glossary of key terms, and a worksheet for researching advocate groups. Social Problems: An Advocate Group Approach is an essential resource for social problems courses and for anyone who is inspired to effect change.

    Introduction: Recreating the World in Our Image -- The Theoretical Basis of the Study of Social Problems -- What Is a Social Problem? -- Understanding Advocate Groups -- Ameliorating Actions, Reactions, and Consequences -- Social Dynamics -- The Problems -- Problems Addressed through Government Programs -- Problems Addressed through Government Legislation -- Problems Addressed through Professional Organizations, Nonprofit Groups, and Special Interest Groups -- Problems with Active Opposition Groups -- Problems Addressed through Education and Public Awareness, Interpersonal Interaction, Reparation, Apology, and Independent Individual Action -- Social Problem Analysis Worksheet -- Advocate Groups -- Notes on Similarities and Contrasts of Social Problems Textbooks -- Glossary -- Sources

    Biography

    Sara Towe Horsfall is associate professor of sociology at Texas Wesleyan University. She is coeditor of Chaos, Complexity, and Sociology and author of A Neighborhood Portrait. She has also worked as a foreign correspondent and international journalist, giving her unique insight into social problems and their solutions around the world.