Social Problem in India
By- Laxmibabu Soren
Understanding Social Problems
❑ Concept: A social problem is any condition or behavior that has
negative consequences for large numbers of people and that is
generally recognized as a condition or behavior that needs to be
addressed.
❑ Objective Components: The measurable and tangible negative
consequences of a condition or behavior that affect large numbers
of people.
▪ Measurable Data and Evidence
▪ Widespread Impact
▪ Verification by Authorities
▪ Longitudinal Studies
▪ Interdisciplinary Research
Understanding Social Problems
❑ Subjective Component: The perception that a condition or
behavior needs to be addressed for it to be considered a social
problem.
▪ Public Perception and Awareness:
▪ Cultural and Societal Values:
▪ Competing Interests and Claims:
▪ Historical and Temporal Context
Sociological Perspectives on Social Problems
► Sociological imagination emphasizes that personal problems (e.g.,
unemployment, health issues) often stem from broader societal issues (e.g.,
economic downturns, healthcare policies).
► Example:
• Unemployment
• Eating Disorder among Women
Characteristics of Social Problems
❑ Widespread Impact:
• Affects a Significant Portion of the Population:
• Social problems are not limited to a few individuals but impact large groups of people.
• Example: Unemployment rates affecting millions.
• Forms of Harm:
• Can cause physical, economic, social, and psychological harm.
• Example: Health issues due to pollution.
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❑ Recognized Need for Change:
• Public Awareness and Concern:
• A condition or behavior is identified by society as needing intervention.
• Example: Movements against systemic racism.
• Influence of Media and Social Movements:
• Media coverage and advocacy play key roles in highlighting issues.
• Example: Coverage of climate change effects leading to global awareness
• Addressing social problems requires cooperation across different fields and sectors.
• Example: Collaborative efforts to combat drug abuse involving healthcare, law enforcement,
and education.
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❑ Complexity:
• Multiple Interrelated Factors:
• Social problems often stem from various interconnected causes.
• Example: Poverty linked with education, employment, and healthcare.
• Interdisciplinary Solutions:
• Addressing social problems requires cooperation across different fields and sectors.
• Example: Collaborative efforts to combat drug abuse involving healthcare, law enforcement,
and education.
Stages in the Development of Social
Problems
❑ Emergence and Claims Making
o A social problem emerges when a condition or behavior is identified
by a social entity (e.g., activists, media, influential individuals) as
undesirable and needing attention.
o The claims-making process involves efforts to bring awareness to the
issue and convince others of its importance.
∙ Examples:
o Bihar Police’s Economic Offences Unit (EOU) highlights the paper
leak issues in NEET UG Exam.
o Civil rights activists drawing attention to racial inequality.
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❑ Legitimacy
o After a social problem is recognized, efforts are made to persuade authorities
(government, institutions) to take it seriously.
o The goal is to establish the problem's legitimacy by presenting empirical evidence
and gaining institutional support.
∙ Examples:
o Coaching institution groups addressed the issues of over grace marking in NEET
UG Exam.
o Research studies on the health impacts of air pollution.
o Testimonies and reports presented to policymakers about income inequality.
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► Renewed Claims Making
o If initial responses from authorities are inadequate, advocates renew their efforts,
reasserting claims and pushing for more substantial action.
o This stage involves persistent advocacy and often public criticism of the initial
responses.
∙ Examples:
o Continued protests and campaigns against NTA and demand for Re-NEET
o Renewed lobbying efforts for stricter environmental regulations.
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❑ Development of Alternative Strategies
o When traditional efforts to address the social problem through established channels fail, groups
may develop their own strategies to tackle the issue.
o This involves grassroots initiatives, community-based solutions, or alternative systems.
∙ Examples:
o Community-led health clinics in underserved areas.
o Local cooperative businesses addressing economic disparities.
Thank You
