Consider The Social Problem Of Poverty

For This Discussion Consider The Social Problem Of Poverty Among Olde

For this discussion, consider the social problem of poverty among older adults in rural communities. Describe possible theories for the causes of poverty among older adults in rural communities on a macro level. Next, compose a possible research question. Which research method would you use to research possible causes and solutions to the social problem of poverty among older adults in rural communities? Explain your answer.

For this discussion, consider the social problem of crime among female adolescents in rural communities. Describe some possible theories for causes of crime among female adolescents in rural communities on a macro level. Next, compose a possible research question. List some of the research methods one would use to research crime among female adolescents in rural communities. What might be some of the practical, ethical, and theoretical issues that could hinder you from conducting research for this population? Explain your answer.

Paper For Above instruction

The social problems of poverty among older adults and crime among female adolescents in rural communities are complex issues rooted in various macro-level factors. Understanding these issues requires examining theoretical frameworks that explain their causes, formulating pertinent research questions, and identifying suitable research methodologies, alongside ethical and practical challenges involved in studying such populations.

Poverty Among Older Adults in Rural Communities: Theories and Causes

At a macro level, poverty among older adults in rural communities can be explained through several sociological and economic theories. One prominent framework is the social stratification theory, which suggests that systemic inequalities in education, employment opportunities, and healthcare access contribute significantly to poverty among the elderly in rural areas (Marmot, 2015). Rural regions often lack sufficient economic development, leading to lower income levels, reduced earnings, and inadequate social services for older adults (Johnson & Hays, 2020). Additionally, the life course theory posits that cumulative disadvantages, such as limited educational attainment, low-wage employment, and interrupted work histories, predispose rural seniors to poverty in later life (Elder, 1994).

Another relevant approach is the structural poverty theory, which emphasizes broader economic and policy factors, including inadequate social safety nets, limited infrastructure, and policy neglect that perpetuate poverty among rural older populations (Brennan et al., 2018). The rural-urban divide in healthcare access, particularly for chronic disease management and preventive services, exacerbates financial hardship among older adults (Hartley, 2019). These interconnected macro-level factors create an environment that sustains poverty among older populations in rural areas.

Research Question and Methodology

A pertinent research question could be: "What are the structural and systemic factors contributing to poverty among older adults in rural communities, and what interventions can effectively address these issues?" To answer this, a mixed-methods approach combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews would be appropriate. Quantitative data can identify prevalence, socioeconomic indicators, and access disparities, while qualitative interviews with older residents, service providers, and policymakers can provide nuanced insights into systemic barriers and potential solutions.

Theories and Causes of Crime Among Female Adolescents in Rural Communities

Addressing crime among female adolescents in rural areas also involves examining macro-level causes through various theories. Strain theory posits that lack of legitimate opportunities, socioeconomic hardship, and community disorganization induce stress and delinquent behavior (Agnew, 1992). Rural communities often experience limited economic opportunities, leading youths to engage in illegal activities as a means of coping (Cozby & Bhatt, 2016). Social disorganization theory emphasizes the breakdown of social institutions, weak family structures, and lack of community cohesion as contributors to juvenile delinquency (Shaw & McKay, 1942).

Furthermore, gender-specific theories suggest that female adolescents may face unique pressures related to gender roles, domestic responsibilities, and exposure to violence, which influence their likelihood of engaging in criminal activity (Patterson & Campbell, 2021). The intersectionality framework highlights how multiple social identities—such as gender, socioeconomic status, and rural residency—interact to shape risk environments leading to delinquency.

Research Question and Methods

A suitable research question might be: "How do systemic economic, social, and gender-specific factors influence criminal behavior among female adolescents in rural communities?" To investigate, qualitative methods such as focus groups and ethnographic observations can provide contextually rich data. Additionally, quantitative surveys can identify correlations between socioeconomic variables and criminal activity rates. Longitudinal studies might also track behavioral patterns over time to understand causative factors.

Ethical, Practical, and Theoretical Challenges

Research involving these populations faces significant challenges. Ethical concerns include maintaining confidentiality and obtaining informed consent, especially when working with minors who may be vulnerable due to socioeconomic disadvantages. Researchers must avoid stigmatization and ensure that participation does not harm participants' well-being (Nie et al., 2022).

Practically, accessing rural populations can involve logistical difficulties such as geographic isolation, lack of transportation, and limited research infrastructure. Gaining trust within tight-knit communities might also prove challenging, influenced by mistrust or stigma towards outsiders.

Theoretically, researchers must consider the cultural and social contexts that shape behavior and attitudes, recognizing that applying urban-centric theories may not fully capture rural realities. Additionally, obtaining representative samples can be difficult due to the small and dispersed populations involved.

Addressing these issues requires culturally sensitive approaches, community engagement, and ethical rigor to ensure valid and respectful research.

Conclusion

Understanding the causes of poverty among older adults and crime among female adolescents in rural communities involves examining macro-level societal, economic, and cultural factors through appropriate theories and research methods. Overcoming practical and ethical hurdles is essential to conduct meaningful research that informs effective policies and interventions. Both issues underscore the importance of systemic solutions that address structural inequalities and foster community resilience in rural settings.

References

- Agnew, R. (1992). Foundation for a general strain theory of crime and delinquency. Criminology, 30(1), 47-88.

- Brennan, M., Williams, S., & Smith, T. (2018). Rural poverty and social safety nets: Policy gaps and opportunities. Journal of Rural Studies, 62, 159-166.

- Cozby, C. C., & Bhatt, S. (2016). Delinquency and Juvenile Justice. Pearson Education.

- Elder, G. H. Jr. (1994). Time, human agency, and social change: Perspectives on the life course. Social Psychology Quarterly, 57(1), 4-15.

- Hartley, D. (2019). Rural health disparities and the challenge to rural healthcare delivery. The Journal of Rural Health, 35(3), 306-311.

- Johnson, M. K., & Hays, R. D. (2020). Elderly poverty in rural America: Challenges and policy implications. Aging & Mental Health, 24(4), 533-541.

- Marmot, M. (2015). The health gap: The challenge of an unequal world. The Lancet, 386(10011), 2442-2444.

- Patterson, M., & Campbell, M. (2021). Gendered pathways to juvenile delinquency: An intersectional perspective. Youth & Society, 53(1), 3-24.

- Shaw, C. R., & McKay, H. D. (1942). Juvenile Delinquency and Urban Areas. University of Chicago Press.

- Nie, J., Huang, J., & Liu, Q. (2022). Ethical considerations in research with vulnerable populations. Research Ethics, 18(2), 153-170.