Social Problem & Event the Social Problem Essay

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Social Problem & Event

The social problem of substance abuse has been prevalent for many years that different perspectives have been expressed and discussed for and against its practice. Using the three sociological traditions/perspectives, namely, Functionalism / Structuralism, Conflict Theory, and Symbolic Interactionism, the social problem of substance abuse will be explored and interpreted.

In functionalism/structuralism, substance abuse is considered a dysfunction in the society. From a macro-sociological perspective, substance abuse does not perform a specific function in the society. Moreover, since not all people engage in substance abuse, it is not considered the norm, not a part of the society's norms, values, and beliefs. It could also be considered a change in society, a manifestation of change or shift from a functional to a dysfunctional one.

Conflict theory, meanwhile, posits that dysfunctional or deviant behavior such as substance abuse is developed as a form of "escape," wherein the conditions of poverty and helplessness become unbearable and substance abuse is the only solution for the individual to forget his/her poverty and troubles in life. Substance abuse can also be considered a form of rebellion, the creation of a dysfunction in a status quo that favors the wealthy and discourages the poor.

Symbolic interactionism looks at phenomenon or social problems such as substance abuse as a specific kind of culture that must be explored and studied to its very core.

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Rather than labeling it as a dysfunctional or functional behavior in the society, symbolic interactionism seeks to explain why some people might consider substance abuse as a dysfunction, while others would consider it otherwise (i.e., it has a function in society). It seeks to understand the culture of people who are into substance abuse, determining the actors, different kinds of behavior involved in the phenomenon, and processes involved….....

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