CHAP 1 THINKING ABOUT SOCIAL

PROBLEMSReflective Questions-

1. What do you think are the serious social problems in America?

WHAT IS A SOCIAL PROBLEM?

Define a social problem- a social condition that a segment of society views as harmful to members of society and in need of a remedy.

Social-Constructionist Approach

objective element vs. subjective element (we are aware of a social condition) (belief that a particular social condition is harmful, should be changed)

Claims Making

ELEMENTS OF SOCIAL STRUCTURE

“THE WAY SOCIETY IS ORGANIZED”

Institutions (traditional-family, religion, politics, economics, education)

(modern-science & tech, mass media, medicine, sports military )

Social Groups(Primary Groups vs. Secondary Groups

Status Ascribed- factors over you have no control

Achieved-social position that a person can acquire on the basis of merit; it is a

position that is earned or chosen

Master-what is considered the most significant

Roles expected behaviors, rights, obligations, beliefs, and norms

WHAT IS THE DEFINITION OF CULTURE?

Meanings and ways of life that characterize a society. (beliefs, values, norms, sanctions, and symbols)

Beliefs vs. Values Norms

folkways- traditional behavior or way of life of a particular community or group

Laws- formal norms, backed by authority Mores- norms based on morals, considered to have

greater moral significance than others

What roles do sanctions play in society?

What do you think are the most influential forms of sanctions?

Symbols