Social Problems

This compact and affordable text serves as an introduction to a wide range of social problems. Social Problems, Second Edition, is unique in that all chapters are organized in a consistent format, beginning with the definition and prevalence of the social problem covered, followed by levels of causation, consequences, and interventions. Each chapter includes a discussion of the future of each social problem covered and a summary of its substantive issues. All chapters conclude with discussion questions, references, and a list of relevant websites.

This lively, readable volume introduces students to a variety of sociological viewpoints on social problems. Every topic is analyzed from individual, cultural, and structural perspectives. This diversity allows instructors to compare explanations that incorporate such structural factors as social class and economic structure to explanations that focus on cultural factors or on biological and psychological characteristics of the individual. Social Problems, Second Edition, emphasizes the importance of gender, race, and class for understanding social problems. The text focuses on the U.S., but incorporates comparative, cross-cultural material when appropriate.

Unique features of this book include the following:

* A consistent approach that offers solutions to social problems, not just explanations
* Full chapters on the topics of cities and urban decline, and on food and population
* Coverage of such issues as the criminalization of pregnancy, domestic violence as a health issue, and aging and homosexuality

To stimulate student interest, each chapter begins with an "In the News" section that consists of several newspaper articles on current issues. Every chapter also includes "A Closer Look" inserts to heighten student interest by describing ongoing efforts to resolve current social issues. Some inserts highlight the impact of social policy, while others summarize research or challenge "common sense" assumptions.

Jack Levin is at Northeastern University. Kim Mac Innis and Walter F. Carroll are both at Bridgewater State College.