Why is substance abuse considered a social problem? As a part of this answer, yo

Question

Why is substance abuse considered a social problem?

As a part of this answer, you should use one of the three sociological frameworks (Functionalist, Conflict, Interactionist).

You may discuss this issue from a domestic or international perspective. Include in your answer the definition of a social problem in Chapter One and how substance abuse does/does not relate. You can answer this question from the perspective that substance abuse is or is not a social problem.

This is the definition of social problem that you need

Existence of a social condition. Awareness of social conditions arise through life experiences and through reports in the media. We see the homeless, hear gunfire in the streets, and see battered women in hospital emergency rooms. We read about employees losing their jobs as businesses downsize and factories close.

The belief that a particular social condition is harmful to society or to a segment of society and that it should and can be changed. We know crime, drug addiction, poverty, racism, gun violence, and pollution exist. These are not considered social problems unless a segment of society believes these conditions diminish the quality of human life.

By combining the subjective and objective elements, we arrive at the following definition: A social problem is a social condition that a segment of society views as harmful to members of society and in need of remedy. Some Americans view gun control as a necessary means of reducing gun violence whereas others believe that gun control is a threat to civil right and individual liberties.

Variations in what is considered a social problem are due to differences in values, beliefs, and life experiences

Explanation / Answer

Substance abuse is a social problem. We understand this with the help of functionalist framework. Every part of the society is interdependent. And society is held together by social consensus, which takes either of the two forms and how substance abuse challenges them is described as under

Related Questions

Navigate

• Browse (All)
• Browse W
• Subjects

Integrity-first tutoring: explanations and feedback only — we do not complete graded work. Learn more.