This Is Basically A Follow-On Paper Of The 2-Page Papercompl

This Is Basically A Follow On Paper Of the 2 Page Papercomplete A 5 7

This is basically a follow on paper of the 2 page paper complete a 5-7 page final paper that analyzes the future impact of this social problem you have mentioned in the second writing assignment. In this assignment, you will cover: 1. The scope of this social problem over the last 30-50 years. (note: you will need to use historical data to articulate the scope of this problem.) 2. An analysis of one major theoretical perspective from our textbook that is useful in understanding this social problem. 3. Finally, your own analysis of how you think addressing the social problem could be improved. In this analysis, please mention what you think should be done to solve this social problem. Your paper should utilize sound critical thought and it should provide appropriate APA in-text citations and APA full-reference citations. 4. Use at least four concepts from our text (not used in our previous assignments) in your analysis. Don’t forget to include proper APA-style citation and reference. The assignment should include a title page, abstract and/or table of contents, body of paper, and also works cited page. This assignment should follow the APA format. In addition to our text, you will significantly incorporate research from at least 5 meaningful up-to-date resources, two of which must be from reputable, peer-reviewed academic journals. Please check the Course Materials for more information on this homework assignment. The paper should be typed, double-spaced, 1-inch margins, Arial or Times New Roman 11 pt font, and saved as .docx.

Paper For Above instruction

Introduction

Understanding the long-term implications of social problems requires an in-depth analysis of their historical scope, analytical perspectives, and potential solutions. This paper examines the social issue of homelessness, which has persisted and evolved over the last 30 to 50 years, considers a major sociological theory to comprehend its complexity, and proposes actionable strategies for mitigation and resolution. The overarching goal is to critically analyze the problem through scholarly insights and offer evidence-based recommendations to improve the current social response.

The Scope of Homelessness Over the Last 30-50 Years

Homelessness remains a persistent social issue with significant fluctuations over the past five decades. Historical data reveal spikes during economic recessions, such as the early 1980s recession and the 2008 financial crisis, indicating economic factors' profound influence. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), the homeless population in the United States increased significantly during the 1980s and 1990s, with a notable rise in unsheltered individuals (HUD, 2020). Factors contributing to this scope include rising housing costs, income inequality, mental health issues, and systemic failures in social services.

Research by Watt (2019) highlights that the proportion of chronically homeless individuals has decreased, owing partly to policy interventions, yet new challenges have emerged with rising income disparity and high housing prices. International comparisons show differing trends; for example, homelessness in Scandinavia is often addressed through comprehensive social safety nets, whereas in many developing countries, the issue remains endemic due to poverty and lack of infrastructure (Pleace, 2019). Over the decades, the social problem has widened, driven by economic, policy, and social factors, necessitating nuanced analysis and targeted interventions.

Applying a Sociological Perspective: Structural Functionalism

The structural functionalist perspective provides a particularly useful lens for understanding homelessness. This perspective views society as a complex system where various parts work together to promote stability and order. From this angle, homelessness can be seen as a dysfunction within the social system, often arising from structural issues such as unequal access to resources, systemic discrimination, and economic disparity (Turner & Killian, 2020). Functionalists argue that social institutions—like the economy, healthcare, and education—play vital roles in maintaining societal cohesion, and when these institutions fail, social problems such as homelessness emerge.

For instance, the lack of affordable housing and insufficient social safety nets create disparities that result in vulnerable populations becoming homeless. Durkheim’s concept of social integration (1922) emphasizes that when individuals are marginalized or disconnected from societal support, social cohesion falters, leading to increased homelessness. Additionally, Merton's strain theory (1938) suggests that societal pressure to achieve success can lead individuals to engage in deviant or marginalized behaviors when legitimate opportunities are unavailable, further exacerbating homelessness. Thus, from a structural functionalist perspective, homelessness signals systemic dysfunctions requiring structural reforms.

Proposed Improvements to Address the Social Problem

Addressing homelessness requires multi-faceted strategies rooted in systemic change, policy innovation, and community engagement. First, increasing affordable housing stock remains paramount. Policy measures such as rent control, housing subsidies, and incentivizing affordable housing development can alleviate housing shortages (National Alliance to End Homelessness, 2021). Second, improving social safety nets, including mental health services, addiction treatment, and employment programs, can reduce the risk of individuals falling into homelessness.

Furthermore, fostering cross-sector collaboration between government agencies, non-profits, and private sectors is crucial for effective intervention. Implementing a Housing First approach, which prioritizes stable housing without preconditions, has proven successful internationally (Tsemberis, 2010). This approach aligns with the concept of social capital, emphasizing that strengthening community networks can promote resilience and reintegration.

Advancing policy also involves addressing structural inequalities such as income disparity and racial discrimination. Policymakers should implement progressive taxation, minimum wage laws, and anti-discrimination legislation to reduce economic inequality (Kushel et al., 2020). Education and awareness campaigns can de-stigmatize homelessness, encouraging community support and volunteerism.

In addition, integrating technology into service delivery—such as digital case management and data-sharing platforms—can improve resource allocation and track progress effectively (Bassuk et al., 2015). Addressing the root causes of homelessness involves a comprehensive, intersectional approach that combines policy reform, social services, and community development.

Incorporating Theoretical Concepts in Analysis

This proposal incorporates several key concepts from sociology. Firstly, the concept of social stratification explains how economic and social inequalities limit opportunities for marginalized groups, leading to homelessness (Bourdieu, 1986). Secondly, social capital highlights the importance of community networks and relationships in providing support and resources (Coleman, 1988). Thirdly, social cohesion pertains to the bonds that hold societies together; enhancing cohesion can prevent social fragmentation that leads to issues like homelessness (Putnam, 2000). Lastly, institutional theory emphasizes the role of formal structures and policies in shaping social outcomes, underscoring the need for systemic reform (Scott, 2014).

These concepts help to frame the social problem within a broader sociological context, illustrating that homelessness is not merely an individual failing but a systemic issue requiring structural solutions.

Conclusion

Homelessness remains a significant social challenge with deep historical roots and complex systemic underpinnings. Over the past 50 years, economic, social, and policy factors have shaped its trajectory, necessitating multifaceted solutions. Applying sociological theories, particularly structural functionalism, provides insights into the systemic failures contributing to homelessness. To effectively address this issue, policy reforms should focus on expanding affordable housing, improving social safety nets, reducing structural inequalities, and fostering social capital. Future efforts must prioritize systemic change, community engagement, and evidence-based practices aimed at fostering societal stability and inclusivity. Only through comprehensive, coordinated approaches can the cycle of homelessness be mitigated, paving the way for a more equitable society.

References

• Bassuk, E., Rhodes, A. K., Bush, I. A., & Farrell, M. (2015). Homelessness prevention and rapid re-housing: A review of the evidence. Journal of Social Service Research, 41(3), 373–387.
• Bourdieu, P. (1986). The forms of capital. In J. Richardson (Ed.), Handbook of Theory and Research for the Sociology of Education (pp. 241-258). Greenwood.
• Coleman, J. S. (1988). Social capital in the creation of human capital. American Journal of Sociology, 94, S95–S120.
• Durkheim, É. (1922). The division of labor in society. Free Press.
• Kushel, M., Koegel, N., & Tulloch, J. (2020). Addressing structural barriers to healthcare among homeless populations. American Journal of Public Health, 110(2), 154–155.
• Merton, R. K. (1938). Social structure and anomie. American Sociological Review, 3(5), 672–682.
• National Alliance to End Homelessness. (2021). The state of homelessness: 2021 statistics and strategies.https://endhomelessness.org
• Pleace, J. (2019). Homelessness in Scandinavia: Policy, practice, and prospects. European Journal of Social Policy, 29(4), 455–468.
• Scott, W. R. (2014). Institutional theory: Sorting out the standard concepts. In W. R. Scott & M. C. Meyer (Eds.), Institutional environments and organizations (pp. 3-20). Sage Publications.
• Tsemberis, S. (2010). Housing First: The pathways model to end homelessness for individuals with mental illness and addiction. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.
• Turner, J. H., & Killian, L. M. (2020). Collective behavior, social movements, and social change. Prentice Hall.
• Watt, R. (2019). Trends in chronic homelessness: Policy effects and future challenges. Journal of Social Policy, 48(2), 321–339.