To Support Your Points Use Examples From Readings And Lectur

To Support Your Points Use Examples From Readings And Lectures You W

Describe the natural history of a social problem (6 stages). Who are claimsmakers? a. How do insider and outsider claimsmakers differ? b. Who are expert claimsmakers? How have they changed historically? What are some of the new concerns regarding expert claimsmakers? What is the role of media and media coverage in claimsmaking? a. How does the media affect claimsmaking? b. What are some limitations of the media? Describe some ways that we, as ordinary citizens, can be involved in the social problems process.

Paper For Above instruction

Social problems are complex issues that affect large groups of people and often evolve through identifiable stages in their social construction. Understanding the natural history of a social problem involves examining its development from emergence to resolution or normalization. This essay discusses the six stages of this process, the roles and types of claimsmakers, especially insider, outsider, and expert claimsmakers, the influence of media coverage, and how ordinary citizens can participate in addressing social issues, supported by examples from readings and lectures.

The natural history of a social problem can be understood through six distinct stages: emergence, legitimization, development of alternative strategies, bureaucratic response, decline, and potential resolution or persistence. The first stage, emergence, involves the initial recognition of a problem by claimsmakers, who highlight certain conditions as undesirable or harmful. This often occurs through media coverage or advocacy efforts, as seen in the early stages of the civil rights movement or environmental activism. The second stage, legitimization, involves gaining widespread acknowledgment and political or social recognition, which often requires the support of claimsmakers to frame the issue as urgent and solvable. For example, the global climate change movement gained legitimacy through scientific reports and media advocacy.

During the development of alternative strategies, activists and organizations propose specific policies or actions to address the problem. This stage involves mobilizing resources and public support. The bureaucratic response follows, where government agencies or institutions implement programs or regulations in response to the problem, such as the creation of environmental protection agencies or anti-discrimination laws. Over time, some social problems decline in visibility and urgency, leading to their normalization within societal structures, while others may persist or worsen without adequate intervention. The persistence of homelessness or drug addiction illustrates problems that remain entrenched despite various efforts.

Claimsmakers are individuals or groups who actively shape the public understanding of social problems by framing issues in particular ways to attract attention and support. There are several types of claimsmakers, including insiders, outsiders, and expert claimsmakers. Insider claimsmakers are typically individuals within the relevant institutions, such as policymakers or officials, who have direct access to decision-making processes. Outsider claimsmakers are outside activists or advocacy groups who seek to influence public opinion and policy from outside institutional channels. Both types play crucial roles in framing social issues—insiders may push for policy change, while outsiders often generate public pressure and awareness.

Expert claimsmakers are individuals with specialized knowledge, such as scientists, academics, or medical professionals, whose testimony and research lend credibility to certain claims about social problems. Historically, their role has expanded alongside increased reliance on scientific and technical evidence in policymaking. Recently, concerns have arisen about the potential bias or influence of expert claimsmakers, especially when research is sponsored by interest groups or politicized, leading to questions about objectivity and trustworthiness.

The media plays a vital role in claimsmaking by disseminating information, shaping public perceptions, and influencing political agendas. Media coverage can elevate a social problem from obscurity to prominence, as seen in coverage of issues like COVID-19 or racial injustice. The media affects claimsmaking by selecting which issues to spotlight, framing narratives, and setting the agenda for policymakers and the public. However, media limitations include sensationalism, oversimplification, and bias, which can distort understanding of complex social problems or marginalize certain perspectives. Media can also influence which claims gain traction, often favoring dramatic stories over nuanced analysis.

As ordinary citizens, individuals can engage in the social problems process through various means. Participating in advocacy campaigns, attending community meetings, contacting policymakers, and spreading awareness via social media are practical avenues for involvement. Citizen activism can pressure authorities to act or amplify marginalized voices. Educational efforts and volunteer work also contribute to social change. For example, grassroots movements like Black Lives Matter demonstrate how citizen engagement can mobilize support and influence discourse surrounding social justice issues.

In conclusion, understanding the development of social problems through their natural history, recognizing the roles of different claimsmakers, and appreciating the influence of media are crucial to effectively addressing social issues. Citizens’ active participation remains vital in shaping social change, ensuring that diverse perspectives are integrated into public discourse and policymaking.

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