The Study of Social Problems: Seven Perspectives

About this book

Now in its seventh edition The Study of Social Problems uses seven sociological perspectives--social pathology social disorganization value conflict deviant behavior labeling the critical perspective and social constructionism--to examine social problems. Focusing on theory this critically acclaimed anthology distinguishes itself from other texts which are organized topically. Each section opens with an overview of the perspectives major contributors its history and its main characteristics and closes with a critique of the perspective and questions for discussion. Thirty-six readings drawn from a wide range of primary sources illustrate and expand upon the key elements of each approach. The seventh edition features updated textual material readings and annotated references. Ten new contemporary selections cover the pathology of everyday life; sexual education and value conflict; self-injury and differential association; the stigma of charity; attacks on labeling theory; capitalism and the problems of class race and gender; state-corporate crime; changing constructions of rape; immigration; and terrorism as a social problem. Long a standard in its field The Study of Social Problems Seventh Edition is an affordable comprehensive and indispensable volume for social problems courses.