Social Problems - American Sociological Association

Syllabus—Carroll Bridgewater State College
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Walter F. Carroll Bridgewater State College
Social Problems: SO 103-01 Fall 2000
COURSE DESCRIPTION
Sociologists suggest that the origins and causes of social problems lie outside of individuals, even though the effects
of such problems are reflected in the behavior of individuals. This class examines a variety of contemporary social
problems. Topics treated may include drug abuse, crime, juvenile delinquency, divorce and other family problems,
mental illness and other health problems, social class, and selected social issues. After examining how sociologists
define, study, and interpret social problems, the course then focuses on specific problems. In addition to defining
and establishing the prevalence of each problem, the course also explores their causes and consequences. We also
consider possible interventions that could alleviate each problem. In this course students will have the opportunity to
study social problems by carrying out basic sociological data analysis. This course satisfies the GER in Behavioral
Sciences, and has no prerequisite.
COURSE OBJECTIVES
1. Understand how sociologists define social problems.
2. Be familiar with the prevalence of major social problems.
3. Understand how sociologists research social problems.
4. Understand the strengths and weaknesses of competing explanations of social problems, especially those
focusing on individual, cultural, and social explanations.
5. Understand the consequences of social problems.
6. Understand the strengths and weaknesses of interventions aimed at solving social problems.
7. Be able to think critically about major social problems.
8. Be able to use elementary data analysis to carry out sociological analysis of social problems.
REQUIRED TEXTS
Levin, Jack, Kim Mac Innis, Walter F. Carroll, and Richard Bourne. 2000. Social Problems: Causes, Consequences,
Interventions. Los Angeles: Roxbury Publishing. (new: $48.00; used: $36.00)
Carter, Gregg Lee. 2000. Analyzing Contemporary Social Issues: A Workbook with Student CHIP Software. Second
Edition. Boston: Allyn and Bacon ($29.50). (This workbook comes with a CD-ROM that includes Student
CHIP software. You can use the software on your own computer or on the campus network.)
COURSE EXPECTATIONS AND INFORMATION
1. Attendance: Attendance is required. If you miss more than three classes, I will reduce your final grade average
by ten points for every additional absence. If you do miss a class, you are responsible for all information
presented during that class. As with any college class, you should expect to spend two hours working outside of
class for every hour in class.
2. Class Format: I teach in a combined lecture/discussion format, and I emphasize active class participation. At
times you will meet in small groups to work on specific topics and questions. Please ask questions or bring up
points for discussion at any time. Complete the assigned readings and assignments on time so that you can take
useful notes and participate in class discussions.
3. Films and Videos: During the semester we will watch several films and videos. We will discuss these in class
and I will include questions about them on exams.
4. Classroom Etiquette: Class starts promptly at 11:00 AM. Be in class ready to start by then. Late arrivals disrupt
the class and should be avoided. Class ends at 11:50 AM. Do not leave the class until then. We will discuss
some very controversial issues this semester. You may disagree with other students, with your readings, or with
me. If so, try to disagree in a generous and open-minded fashion, using logic and evidence to support your
views. You will have access to much data in this class and you should use it to enhance your understanding of
the material and to advance your arguments.
5. Extra Credit: During the semester you will have several extra credit opportunities. You may do extra credit
opportunities for up to 10 points added to your class average.
• You will have the opportunity to do one extra credit assignment for five additional points added to an
exam grade. During the semester the Campus Climate Action Group (CCAG) will sponsor several
valuable programs. You may attend and write about one of those for extra credit. For information
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