Definition and characteristics of social problems.
What is a social problem? Discuss the characteristics of social problems.
Definition and characteristics of social problems.
Definition and features of social problems.
Definition / concept of social problem: -
According to Walsh and Furfuy, actions or events that deviate from the conventional norms and values of society are social problems.
Wenberg thinks that the social problem is the offensive behavior of a large number of members arising from social systems, from which corrective measures have to be taken.
R.K. Marton described social problems as a form of deviant behavior.
According to Horton and Leslie, the antisocial behavior of an individual or group in society that harms a large part of society.
E. Rabb and G. J. Seljnik says that social problems are a kind of situation that leads people astray. This kind of behavior becomes a major obstacle to discipline in society.
The English word synonym for problem comes from the Greek word Problema, meaning a casting event that affects a person's thinking and actions. So the social problem is a kind of situation which is not considered desirable, which destroys the prevailing normal rules and norms of the society, which gives rise to a chaotic situation in the society and which can be remedied together.
Characteristics of social problems: -
1. Social problems are universal. Social problems are present in every society around the world. So it is not possible to imagine a society without problems. Although the nature of the problems varies from country to country, but their basic character remains the same.
2. Social problems are relative; In other words, what is known as a problem today may not be a problem tomorrow. Society is changing. While some social phenomena seem to be an immediate problem in the context of this changing society, after a while they appear to be not a problem at all. For example, the great revolt of 1857 AD was seen as a problem of the educated society of that time, but today it is proved that the great revolt was India's freedom struggle.
3. Every social problem has some root cause. Every social problem arises in terms of specific causes, events or situations. Various abnormal and chaotic situations give rise to every social problem and it spreads over time.
4. Social problems are behaviors that deviate from the norm of society. People or groups behave deviantly in the hope of material gain which harms other groups and individuals in the society. This kind of deviant behavior is not considered desirable in any society.
5. The nature of social problems may be different in different societies. For example, in the Indian context, older age is one of the major problems. But aging has not yet emerged as a major problem in the West. Child marriage, witchcraft - these are some of the problems in Indian society but not so prevalent in western modern civilizations.
6. Social problems have detrimental effects on all societies. Although the deviant behavior of one class of people is suitable for fulfilling their interests, it interferes with the interests of all other people. Therefore, any kind of social problem is harmful to society.
7. Social problems are interrelated. For example, suppose an incompetent person gets a teaching job by paying a bribe. As a result, since he is incompetent, it will not be possible for him or her to conduct education properly; As a result, the real purpose of education will be disrupted. Thus every social problem is related to each other.
8. It is possible to solve social problems. Solving social problems requires a united and holistic approach. Social problems can be solved through specific policies, positive attitudes, concerted efforts, and political good will.
9. Every social problem is caused by a special social condition. This special social condition is called - Pathological Social Condition; The word means - a situation that is conducive to social problems. This kind of situation motivates groups and individuals to deviate from the norms of society.
In conclusion, the ideal combination of society and social problems can be observed in today's world. Different social environments and situations give rise to social problems; Multiple factors such as unequal development of society, increase of political tension at national and international level, unequal economic development, corruption in political and governmental affairs, free sex, break up of joint family etc. create positive conditions for social problems.
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