Abstract This paper examines social stratification across the broad scope of human society. The paper studies how social stratification evolves and manifests itself, a process that remains a highly contentious issue among social scientists and philosophers. Referencing ancient and modern philosophers and writers, the paper addresses the debate of whether social stratification is a natural development predicated upon the hierarchy of social order or a manifestation of certain biological realities, such as age and gender. Further, the paper discusses how social stratification affects social development and shapes social discourse, specifically when applied to certain ethnic groups. Examples cited include Cuban society and minorities in the United States.
From the Paper "While it is apparent that a direct relationship between the division of labor in a capitalist system can be linked to the process of social stratification, Rossides argues that the connection between the division of labor and social stratification has more fundamental roots than the development of capitalism. In fact, Rossides maintains that social stratification began as far back as the development of society, form hunter-gatherer to agrarian modes of existence (Rossides, 35). During this time period-approximately 5,000 years ago-society became more unstable and, as a result, divisions in the social structure of society occurred as method for promulgating stability. Rossides is not the only author to make this observation."
Abstract The paper discusses how social structure theories attempt to analyze the driving forces that change society and that sociologists who study social change use the study of both criminology and sociology to draw conclusions about criminal behavior. The paper further explains that the three main branches of social structure theories are the social disorganization theory, the social strain theory and the cultural deviance theory. In this paper, the major social structural theories are defined and analyzed. The culmination of this paper addresses the question - How well have social structure theories explained delinquent behavior in society?
From the Paper "The strain theories express the discontent of Americans who fail to achieve the American dream. Crimes committed by white collar, middle class workers can be explained by the strain theories. An example of this is workplace violence, which, according to a Bureau of Justice Statistics Crime Characteristics accounts for 18 percent of all violent crime between 1993 and 1999 . Unfortunately, it is not unheard of for a worker who was recently fired to return to his old employer to vent his anger by opening fire on anyone in site. Such violence demonstrates how competition to succeed prompts crime as the anomie theory contends."
Abstract This paper looks at how the current Social Security debate is centered on the ability of the current system to continue to provide Social Security benefits to the next generation of elderly and how many argue that Social Security, as it exists today, will become unable to provide benefits to the next generation of working people. It examines the arguments made by social scientists in favor of incorporating private accounts to the Social Security program in order to determine whether privatization is a valid alternative to the present Social Security program.
Outline
Introduction
Social Security and the Privatization Plan
The Present Debate
The Privatization Plan
From the Paper "From the very inception of Social Security there has been a debate over its ability to sustain itself, and even it's constitutionality. In 1937, the Supreme Court heard Helvering v. Davis, a case in which a man sued his employer for their compliance with the Social Security Act. He argued that under the "reserve clause" of the Constitution (the 10th Amendment) powers not specifically granted to the federal government are reserved for the States or the people. When the federal government seeks to expand its influence in new areas it must find some basis in the Constitution to justify its action. Obviously, the Constitution did not specifically mention the operation of a social insurance system as a power granted to the federal government."
Abstract This paper details the published research findings which state that there are four basic types of abusers. The writer of this paper explores the various theories that claim child abuse is in fact based on social, environmental and structural factors including economic status, cultural values, social isolation and lack of a community support system. The writer contends and explains why cultural norms are a significant cause of child abuse. The writer of this paper emphasizes the need for early intervention to both identify and combat cases of child abuse. The writer also stresses the importance of understanding the social causes of child abuse which can then help treat the abuser and prevent abuse from both occurring and escalating.
Table of Contents:
The Types of Abusers
The Social Systems Theory
Socialization/Role Strain Theory
The Social Interaction Theory
The Religious Theory
Other Social Phenomena
Intervention
Conclusion
References
From the Paper "Research and studies on child abuse and abusers indicate there are four basic types of abuser. The "accelerator" sees the child as having some kind of negative affect. (The child may remind them of a former spouse, or be inadvertently blamed for the break-up of a relationship). The abuser may take out their anger and frustration at these situations on the child. The "mediator" has some kind of reason that rationalizes the abuse, such as Biblical passages or "folk" wisdom that seem to support some kind of harsh discipline ("spare the rod and spoil the child"). In the "brakes" abuser, the abuser cannot control their actions and impulses and so allow their impulses to rule over their common sense.
Finally, the "reinforcer" finds some kind of emotional payoff from the abuse. They feel more in control, they can ignore other problems in their life, etc."
Abstract This paper takes a look at the determination of how social control affects deviance is complicated by the variety of sociological theories on the question of deviance, and their diverse analyses of the interrelationship between society, social controls and deviance. Given this limitation, this essay critically examines how social controls affect deviance with respect to two interrelated areas: social controls on deviance in the family unit, and social controls on deviant sexual behavior. Within a structural-functional theoretical analysis, it argues that social order affects deviance in complex ways, and ultimately supports social order and can lead to social change.
Abstract This paper describes the role of the National Association of Social Workers, a US membership organization for social work students and practicing social workers. The primary functions of this organization include promoting the professional development of its members, establishing and maintaining professional standards of practice, advancing sound social policies, and providing services that protect its members and enhance their professional status. This paper additionally explores the topics of social work job opportunities, professional development opportunities, and the social work 'Code of Ethics'.
From the Paper "The social work Code of Ethics is a set of guidelines that social workers must adhere to. The Code of Ethics is broken
into two parts; ethical standards and ethical principles. Ethical standards pertain to different values that social workers must possess themselves in order to carry out the social work mission. The values include; service, social justice, dignity and worth of person, importance of human rights, integrity, and competence. Without these core values it would be impossible for a social worker to effectively help and empower his or her clients. Ethical principles refer to the rules that social workers must follow in regards to their relationship with clients, colleagues, and society, as well as, their responsibilities as a professional (NASW, Washington D. C. Chapter, 2007 Code of Ethics)."
Abstract This paper discusses James Midgley's book, "Social Development: The Development Perspective in Social Welfare." The paper discusses Midgley's arguments and concludes that his means do not seem to justify his ends, as he fall short in comprehensively expounding and discussing the framework and conceptual dynamics of how exactly social development and policies in social welfare development can be integrated to have a mutually reinforcing effect and role with economic development.
Table of Contents:
Abstract
Introduction
Overview and Structure of the Book
Discussion and Review
Conclusion
From the Paper "The term "development" has been widely used in the last couple of decades. Its meaning for most people, involves a general idea of progress and change accompanied by industrialization and improvement in social wellbeing, and in effect, an enhancement in people's income, educational levels, housing, and health care. Mostly though, regard development as economic development. And in the decades following World War II, there have been significant levels of economic development with adoption of economic development prescriptions as in the Martial Plan, and subsequent application of principles to the third world. With this, levels of social welfare have also improved significantly compared to the situation at the end of the nineteenth century. But the social achievements of the recent decades have been mixed with grinding poverty, and homelessness, and lack of education, characterizing the lives of billions of people in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. This is what James Midgley terms distorted development; pointing to the need for social development to counteract this phenomenon."
Tags:social development, social welfare, social philanthropy, economic development, public administration
Abstract In this article, the writer notes that it is evident that history has forced most immigrants to the US to take on the responsibility of socialization individually, without support from social organizations. The writer further relates that, in the initial mass immigration that occurred during industrialization, this philosophy lead to the formation of cultural communities across the US that worked to support cultural members and the greater social order as well. The writer then points out that, as time has progressed, however, there have been millions of immigrants that have arrived in the nation, both legal and illegal, who have relied solely on these cultural communities for socialization. Ultimately this has created a separation between cultural communities and the larger social order because there has been a lack of organizational or institutional support for immigrants. The writer then asserts that it is therefore apparent that it is time for institutions and individuals to fulfill their social contract with society and assist immigrants in becoming socialized. The writer concludes that it is only through this dual effort that one society will function for the greater good, which includes fulfilling the needs of all cultural groups and prevents segregation of cultural groups from the greater social order.
From the Paper "For example, millions of illegal immigrants are demanding that they be given their citizenship because of their extended stays within the country. This demand is supported by numerous groups within the Hispanic culture that believe that crossing the border into the United States and functioning in society without incident should be sufficient grounds for citizenship. Yet, the opposing viewpoint to this argument suggests that by offering citizenship to this population, the country is degrading the efforts of other immigrants that have followed legal pathways to becoming citizens. Clearly, the latter argument supports the intentions of society to conduct immigration through legal processes, while the initial argument supports a cultural desire that strays from the legal structure of the nation. Additionally, it should be noted that the first argument serves to separate the needs of one group from the needs of the greater society, while the second argument insists upon a universal format for immigration.
"Therefore, demanding that immigrants should be responsible for their own socialization process in which they create their own resources and opportunities is possible. However, without the support of social organizations that essentially allow for a universal understanding of American life and the American culture, individuals rely on cultural communities that support only a particular culture's way of life and not the nation."
Abstract This paper examines the role of the social worker in society. The paper explains that the discipline and the field of social work is one that has to deal with numerous and often complex social issues and problems. The paper then looks at how social work helps others, improves living conditions in the society, and alleviates problems that are caused by poor and inadequate social environments. The paper also points out that, central to the role of the social worker, is that he or she has to deal with problems in terms of the existing micro-system, meso-system, and macro-system in the society. The paper then analyzes the article "Celebrating Diversity" by Lorraine Gutierrez which highlights the issues and the complexity of the problems that face the discipline of social work.
From the Paper "Therefore, from the above discussion it becomes obvious that what is required from the professional social worker is more than just "helping others" in a simplistic way. Social work primarily involves a real concern for people and an involvement in the community. This entails a professional education. In short, deciding on social work as a profession is something that should not be taken lightly as it means years of professional training and commitment. Training in social work is uniformly standardized so to provide professional consistency. The accreditation of social work programs provides uniformity among all BSW and MSW degree programs. Together, these degrees include over 50,000 students at over 600 schools and provide a consistent, quality education recognized by society as preparation for social work. The support of professional associations aids students in becoming and maintaining themselves as social workers."
An assessment of the competing claims of the stockholder stakeholder approaches to corporate social responsibility, and a look at similarities and differences of each type of approach to responsibility.
2,515 words (approx. 10.1 pages), 10 sources, 2001, $ 76.95
Abstract This essay will discuss the competing claims of both the stockholder and the stakeholder approaches to corporate social responsibility. An explanation for corporate social responsibility will be provided and arguments will be put forward for similarities and differences in the stockholder and stakeholder approaches to this movement. Evidence to support these arguments will be provided throughout the essay.
From the paper:
"Before discussing the competing claims, it must be understood what is meant by the term corporate social responsibility. Corporate social responsibility is just one aspect of business ethics and has become increasingly important for companies operating in the global economy. It is a fast developing and increasingly competitive field. There is no single, commonly accepted definition of corporate social responsibility but it generally refers to the idea that businesses are accountable for the effects of their actions on the community and should seek socially and economically beneficial results. It involves operating a business in a way that meets ethical and legal standards as well as meeting public expectation. Decisions taken by managers need to satisfy the needs of the community and companies must be accountable for the way in which their results are achieved."
Abstract The paper observes the characteristics of adolescents and how their cognitions and behaviors contribute to their peer group formation and social development. These observations support the group formation concepts of social psychology. The paper bases its findings on five studies that look at the process of socialization in youth and have identified techniques and patterns utilized.
From the Paper "Social psychology by definition is the study of groups, and group formation is never more obvious or influential than in the stages of adolescence. Adolescents employ a variety of techniques, including self-serving bias and attributions, in the formation of their peer groups and in their socialization. While research directly examining these particular techniques in adolescence is somewhat rare, many researchers have studied general ways in which youth socialize. Five articles related to this topic have been reviewed, each dealing with characteristics of adolescents and how their cognitions and behaviors contribute to their peer group formation and social development."
Social development policy and capacity building for social protection. The paper describes the concepts, approaches and other considerations in developing countries.
Abstract This paper explores in-depth capacity building for enhancing social protection in developing countries. Even some useful comparisons are made with some developed countries. Many theories of social protection systems and ideas of building such as social capital, lesson-drawing and inter-organizational relationships are some of the issues explored. The paper also looks at recommendations and predictions for the future of social protection, which may be threatened in some cases, by globalization and which are afforded for developed and developing countries alike.
From the Paper "Within the context of the developing world, emphases on capacity building have most recently centered on the need for improving the levels of access to, benefits from, as well as the quality of social protection. Of crucial importance to this debate is the idea that even with increased globalization currents and Neo-Liberal orientations and the conflicting and often contradictory roles of state capacity building, there has also been much concomitant focus on the building of networks and partnerships within developing countries to enhance the social protection or security of disadvantaged groups. Consequently, the broader focus on other actors within societies is today seen as a more efficacious means of tackling areas of social protection in the continuous grope for robust mechanisms and approaches for improving social development policy. In particular, labour markets, old-age pensions, income securities especially for the unemployed, poor or limited access and quality of health services and educational facilities and other forms of social safety nets, are being evaluated in the light of capacity building strategies to address these problem areas for the least advantaged or poorest segments of societies across the developing world. Some distillation will therefore be given of central concepts, important themes and approaches that have in the past been germane to the idea of capacity building for social protection. There will also be special modern focus on social risk management and social inclusion, alongside the evolution of such emphases, concepts and approaches, within the present era of social protection reforms. In this regard, then, countries in Africa, East Asia as well as the Latin American and Caribbean region will be examined to obtain a critical view of the successes and failures of attempts at social protection reforms. Accordingly, therefore, the role of capacity building in the path towards restructuring systems of social protection for the poor and the disadvantaged will be emphasized. It is recognized, that corruption and political patronage are some political realities that stymie both the operation and improvement in social security systems across countries in the developing world. Some such countries are, for instance, those in Latin America, Africa and the Caribbean region. Nevertheless, analyses in this respect will be treated parsimoniously for the most part, in this paper."
Abstract The following discusses the various aspects of family as a social institution with respect to the conflict and functionalist theoretical perspectives. It also points out the basis for social order and explains how social order can be maintained while at the same time allowing for necessary social conflict and/or change. Finally it discusses homosexuality and the ways in which it challenges the traditional definition of family.
This paper addresses key issues in clinical social work, centering on the interview and case management process, and also discussing the use of time, silence, and information in the social work process.
3,400 words (approx. 13.6 pages), 5 sources, 2002, $ 124.95
Abstract This paper addresses key issues in clinical social work, centering on the interview and case management process, and also discussing the use of time, silence, and information in the social work process. It defines interviewing skills that a social worker must have, as well as describing the environment that would be ideal for therapeutic work or interviewing. Foremost among the issues that interviewing raises are trust and responsibility in the client-social worker relationship.
Tags: PSYCHOLOGY / COUNSELLING, SOCIAL WORK, social work relationships
Abstract This paper addresses the issue of health care for the homeless and the duty of the social worker in taking care of this need. The paper begins by identifying the social justice issue of health care for the homeless. It then discusses the implications for generalist social work practice at the micro, mezzo, and macro levels. It further presents strategies for the individual social worker and the social work agency.
From the Paper "Currently, there is not single jurisdiction or a single state in the entire United States of America in which a full-time worker earning minimum wage can afford what HUD has declared "Fair Market Rate" rent for housing in that area. Welfare payments almost universally fall far short of a minimum wage equivalent, and even unemployment benefits are generally set at 50% of one's prior earnings. In short, the minimum guaranteed income for an American worker or non-working citizen is less that what is necessary to prevent homelessness. Considering this simple fact, the number of homeless in America should not be surprising. On the contrary, it is a tribute to the ingenious nature of our working class that only an estimated 3 million individuals nationwide are chronically homeless. Yet despite the obvious need for some form of intervention, the existing support systems are grotesquely overburdened and overcapacity. Millions are condemned to live without even the inhospitable lodging of a public or private shelter organization. Such exposure to the elements, combined with a systematic legal persecution of homeless individuals, creates a situation in which medical problems and emergencies abound. For children and adults, homelessness has severe impacts on health. Rates of acute health problems are astronomically higher among homeless people and others in unstable poverty-stricken conditions."
