Social Problems: Community, Policy, and Social Action

Empower your students to become part of the solution.

With a clear and upbeat voice, this thought-provoking overview of social problems challenges readers to understand and recognize social problems in their communities and inspires them to become part of the solution. The Fourth Edition of this popular book goes beyond the typical presentation of contemporary social problems and their consequences by emphasizing the importance and effectiveness of community involvement to achieve real solutions. With an overarching focus on social inequalities and policy, this proven text provides a platform for discussion that encourages critical thinking and inspires hope.

Anna Leon-Guerrero is a professor of sociology at Pacific Lutheran University in Tacoma, Washington. A recipient of the university’s Faculty Excellence Award and the K. T. Tang Award for Excellence in Research, she teaches courses on statistics, sociological theory, and social problems. As a social service program evaluator and consultant, she has focused her research on welfare reform, employment strategies for the working poor, and program assessment. She is the coauthor of Social Statistics for a Diverse Society and Essentials of Social Statistics for a Diverse Society (with Chava Frankfort-Nachmias).