Written Assignment 1: Social Problem Analysis Due: Class 5
A. Problem statement
`1.Define and discuss the social problem. (Consider how you are defining the problem and what assumptions you are making about the problem, target for change, &/or beneficiaries. What cultural norms, myths or popular ideas influence how we define the problem and/or help to maintain the problem? Are there other ways to define the problem, i.e. how might those most negatively affected define the problem? Is the problem widely recognized or not?)
B. Problem Description
1. Who does the problem affect (e.g. race, gender identity, age, ability, etc.) and what is their status (e.g. marginalized, privileged, powerful)? What are the racial/ethnic/gender inequities, barriers or negative outcomes involved in this problem? (Who is burdened most and who benefits most from the problem?
2. What do we know about the problem (severity, incidence, prevalence)?
3. What factors influence or contribute to the problem? Consider not only micro-level factors but also social conditions. For example, do any unfair policies or practices (current or historical) contribute to the problem?
4. What are the potential or existing consequences of this problem if we do nothing? In other words, why should we care about this problem? (what are the cumulative impacts?)
C. Evidence-based practice
1. Summarize the evaluation literature on any existing attempts to deal with or resolve the problem.
Have any programs/interventions been shown to have a positive effect on the problem? If so, what outcomes were demonstrated or not?
Which populations were positively impacted by which interventions?
Do any interventions address systemic change or concerns regarding equity?
D. Conclude with a brief synthesis of the knowledge base on the problem and recommendations for future action on this problem particularly.
