Characteristics of Social Problems

Characteristics of Social Problems

• Social problems arouse interest and attention from a significant portion of society and its institutions.
• Social problems are interconnected, and each problem has different dimensions that affect its manifestations, degree, and priority.
• These dimensions include historical, spatial, legal, political, economic, social, cultural, and educational aspects.
• Social problems are relative, meaning they differ across societies and times, and are influenced by individual conditions such as age, color, or race.
• Social problems are automatic and systemic, not created by individuals, but rather by society as a whole.
• Social problems impose themselves on individuals, who are often obligated to conform.
• Social problems are widespread, historical phenomena that are characteristic of a particular moment in the history of a group of people.

Classification of Social Problems

• Life Problems (Basic): affect the basic needs of society, such as housing, food, education, health, and social care.
  • If left unaddressed, life problems can lead to other issues like high crime rates, illiteracy, and the spread of diseases.
• Economic Problems:
  • Characterized by low average per capita income, low productivity, weak economic institutions, and a focus on consumption over production.
  • Include weak savings and a lack of economic projects.
• Social Problems:
  • Involve unsatisfied needs for large segments of the population.
  • Examples include family conflicts, divorce, drug addiction, and lack of leisure activities.
• Societal Problems:
  • Relate to building and maintaining society, including organizations, institutions, and community policies.
  • Include problems of juvenile delinquency, unemployment, terrorism, and other issues that impact security and community stability.