A social problem is a condition that at least some people in a community view as

A social problem is a condition that at least some people in a community view as
being undesirable. Everyone would agree about some social problems, such as
murders, DWI traffic deaths, racism, police brutality, racial profiling,
bullying/cyberbullying, poverty /homelessness, and food insecurity, just to name a
few.
Other social problems may be viewed as such by certain groups of people
only. Teenagers or adults who play loud music in public parks or driving through
residential neighborhoods obviously do not view it as a problem, but some other
people may consider it an undesirable social condition. Some nonsmokers view
smoking as an undesirable social condition that should be banned or restricted in
public buildings. Or running children living above you in an apartment complex.
Once you select a topic, you must critically analyze the social problem by answering
the 4 questions below:
• Introduction: Define/introduce the social problem. Provide historical facts
and background information. This is a great place to add statistical
information.
• Body: Explain why the social problem is viewed as such by members of
society. What issues does society have with the social problem. Please explain
your rationale. Provide specific examples.
• Body: What are or have been the consequences of the social problem on
society? Please explain your rationale. Provide specific examples.
• Conclusion: Do you believe this social problem is solvable? Yes, no, why or
why not? Please explain rationale and provide specific examples. In addition,
use all 4 of the main sociological perspectives to support your argument:
• Structural Functionalism, Symbolic Interactionism, Social Conflict and
Feminist
Perspectives. (Note: You can also use other theories if you wish, in addition to
the 4 listed above).
The final paper should be in word format, in no less than 6 full pages in length,
double-spaced (no extra spaces between paragraphs), with 12-point Times New
Roman or Georgia font, 1” margins, and proper citations. (NOTE: Those pages do
not include, title, reference/work cited page (s), or the abstract if you choose to
use one). Spelling and grammar are a part of this assignment, as incorrect usage
can inhibit your ability to communicate your ideas. Make use of the rubric as it
gives specific guidance about the factors that go into grading the paper. The
exercise is worth 225 points towards your final grade. Please remember to cite
your sources, using MLA or APA format. You must use at least 4 scholarly
sources, other than the textbook and absolutely No Wikipedia. Please submit the
final draft as a PDF file.
Here are a few things to keep in mind as you write and research your paper.
1. Formulate a strong thesis. If you fail to write a good thesis statement, the rest of
your college essay is likely to be vague. Your thesis must be debatable and tightly focused so that it can be clearly supported by the evidence you gather for your
paper.
2. Make a detailed outline for the rest of your essay. Make sure that each part of
your sociology essay supports the thesis you have formulated. Indicate the topic
for each paragraph or section. Include references to your sources.
3. Write your essay introduction and conclusion. Your introductory paragraph
should be concise and focused. To make it more interesting, use a specific
example in your introduction.
4. Write your body paragraphs. Use relevant data to support the main points in each
one. Make sure you include clear transitions between the paragraphs in your
academic essay.
5. Finally, please remember that the final paper must read as one, well written and
argued document. You must write the final draft in a matter that each question
joins together as one solid and sound thought. That means that you will have to
use transitional words and phrases, which will help carry your thoughts forward
from one sentence and/or paragraph to another without gaps or breaks.