Addressing Homelessness as a Contemporary Social Problem

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Introduction: In this section, you will summarize your proposal. Explain the contemporary social problem that you selected and discuss the relevance for today’s society on a local level. How does the issue present itself in the United States or in your local community?Problem Description: Determine the most influential social variables and determinants leading to the social problem. Justify your selections with research.Explain how the social variables and determinants influence the development of the social problem on a local level. Support your explanations with resources.Explain how the social variables and determinants influence the development of the social problem on a global level. Support your explanations with resources.Describe the differences and similarities between local and global influences of these social variables and determinants. Provide specific examples.Approach: In this section, you will sift through your personal biases, with the aim of limiting such biases in your later analysis.Describe how people talk about this social problem and how stereotypes, biases, and assumptions can confuse the issue. Support your description with resources.Identify and reflect on your own biases and assumptions around the issue and how these may affect your analysis of the issue. Everyone has certain preconceived notions about social issues. What are yours, and how might they influence your analysis and interpretation?Explain how you will use sociological theory to limit biases when you analyze the social problem. How can the theory help you limit your biases? Provide a specific example.Global Impact: So that the funder can understand the significance of the social problem, you will explain the local and global impacts using a sociological perspective.Provide an example of how the social problem manifests itself on a local as well as global scale. In what other country or countries does this problem present itself and how?Compare and contrast the existence of the problem locally versus globally. How is the way the problem exists locally similar to or different from the way it exists globally?Based on your comparison of the local and global manifestations of the social issue, what conclusions can you draw about the influence of globalization on this specific social issue? How similar or different are the social issues and their repercussions, and what does that mean in relation to the impact of globalization?Select a key sociological theoretical perspective that best explains why there are similarities and differences in how the social issue presents on a local and global scale, justifying your selection. Base your analysis on one of the three key sociological perspectives covered in Module Two’s journal assignment.Apply your selected theoretical perspective to explain why there are similarities and differences in how the social issue presents on a local and global scale.Potential SolutionCompare at least one successful attempted solution with at least one attempted unsuccessful solution to the problem. From your comparison, why did the successful solution succeed, and why did the unsuccessful solution fail? Support your findings with resources from the text or your own research.Based on your previous research, what suggestion do you have for responding to the identified social issue? Specifically, what do you suggest as an action in responding to the social issue?Explain why your suggestion is likely to be successful, substantiating with research. Explain how the suggestion takes into account your previous research of attempted solutions and identified best practices. Share on Facebook Tweet Follow us Sample Answer   Addressing Homelessness as a Contemporary Social Problem Introduction Homelessness remains one of the most pressing social issues in the United States today, affecting millions of individuals and families across various communities. This problem is especially relevant at the local level, where the visible presence of homeless individuals can evoke a range of responses from compassion to stigma. In cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and New York, homelessness presents itself through encampments, transient populations, and increased demand for social services. The complexity of homelessness is underscored by the interplay of economic, social, and political factors that contribute to its persistence in society. Problem Description Influential Social Variables and Determinants Several social variables and determinants significantly influence the issue of homelessness: 1. Economic Inequality: The widening gap between the affluent and the impoverished has been identified as a key driver of homelessness. According to the National Alliance to End Homelessness (2022), rising housing costs combined with stagnant wages disproportionately affect low-income individuals, pushing them into precarious living situations. 2. Mental Health and Substance Abuse: Mental health issues and substance abuse are prevalent among the homeless population. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) estimates that approximately 20% of the homeless population experiences severe mental illness, which complicates their ability to secure stable housing. 3. Lack of Affordable Housing: A significant shortage of affordable housing options exacerbates homelessness. The National Low Income Housing Coalition (2021) reports that for every 100 extremely low-income renters, there are only 37 affordable rental units available. Local Influences On a local level, these determinants manifest through increased rates of homelessness within urban centers, where housing demand outstrips supply. For instance, in San Francisco, high rents and limited availability drive many residents into homelessness. Moreover, local policies surrounding mental health services and addiction treatment directly impact the support available to those at risk of homelessness. Global Influences Globally, homelessness is influenced by similar determinants but is also impacted by different cultural and political contexts. In developing countries, rapid urbanization often leads to informal settlements and slum conditions, where individuals lack access to basic services (United Nations Human Settlements Programme, 2020). While economic inequality is a common thread, factors such as conflict and natural disasters further exacerbate homelessness in various regions around the globe. For example, in countries like Syria or Venezuela, political instability and economic collapse have led to increased displacement and homelessness. Similarities and Differences The similarities between local and global influences include economic disparities and inadequate housing solutions. However, differences arise in the underlying causes; for instance, local homelessness is often tied to economic conditions within a city, while global homelessness may be influenced by broader issues like war or climate change. Approach Public Discourse Discussions surrounding homelessness often involve stereotypes portraying homeless individuals as lazy or substance abusers. These assumptions can obscure the complexity of the issue, leading to misguided solutions that fail to address root causes. Research from the American Psychological Association (2018) indicates that negative stereotypes can hinder public support for effective policies aimed at alleviating homelessness. Personal Biases As an analyst, it is important to recognize my own biases regarding homelessness. I may hold preconceived notions about personal responsibility versus systemic failures. These biases could inadvertently influence my analysis by downplaying structural factors contributing to homelessness. Limiting Biases Through Sociological Theory Using sociological theories can help limit biases in analyzing social problems. For instance, adopting a structural-functional perspective allows me to focus on systemic factors contributing to homelessness rather than attributing it solely to individual failings. This theory emphasizes that societal structures must function effectively to prevent issues like homelessness (Giddens et al., 2017). Global Impact Local vs. Global Manifestation In my local community, homelessness manifests as visible encampments and reliance on shelters, while globally it presents through slums or refugee camps. For instance, in India, street children represent a significant segment of the homeless population due to rapid urbanization and poverty (Sukhadeo & Koli, 2019). Conclusions on Globalization’s Influence Globalization exacerbates economic inequality, contributing to both local and global homelessness. While economic growth in developed countries can lead to gentrification and displacement locally, it can also increase competition for resources globally, leaving marginalized populations vulnerable. Sociological Perspective on Similarities and Differences The conflict perspective best explains the similarities and differences in how homelessness presents locally versus globally. This perspective highlights how power dynamics shape social issues—wealthier nations may experience homelessness due to economic policies favoring affluent classes while poorer nations see homelessness due to systemic poverty (Marx & Engels, 1848). Potential Solution Successful vs. Unsuccessful Solutions One successful solution has been the “Housing First” model implemented in various cities across the U.S., providing permanent housing without preconditions (Tsemberis et al., 2004). Conversely, unsuccessful solutions often involve punitive measures like anti-camping laws that fail to address core issues. The success of the Housing First model lies in its holistic approach—addressing housing needs first before tackling other issues like substance abuse or mental health. In contrast, punitive measures only serve to criminalize homelessness without offering constructive support. Recommendations for Addressing Homelessness To effectively respond to homelessness, I recommend expanding access to affordable housing through public-private partnerships that incentivize developers to create low-income units. This action is likely to succeed due to demonstrated effectiveness in various cities (National Low Income Housing Coalition, 2021). Additionally, implementing supportive services alongside housing initiatives can ensure individuals receive necessary resources such as mental health care and job training. By focusing on comprehensive solutions rather than isolated programs, we can create a sustainable impact on reducing homelessness. Conclusion Homelessness is a multifaceted social issue influenced by various economic and social determinants. Through understanding these factors both locally and globally, we can develop more effective strategies for addressing this persistent problem. By acknowledging biases and applying sociological theories to our analyses, we can work toward comprehensive solutions that ultimately enhance community well-being. References – American Psychological Association. (2018). Understanding Homelessness: A Psychological Perspective. Retrieved from APA – Giddens, A., Duneier, M., Appelbaum, R.P., & Carr, D. (2017). Introduction to Sociology. Seagull Edition. New York: W.W. Norton & Company. – Marx, K., & Engels, F. (1848). The Communist Manifesto. Retrieved from Marxists.org – National Low Income Housing Coalition. (2021). The Gap: A Shortage of Affordable Homes. Retrieved from NLIHC – National Alliance to End Homelessness. (2022). State of Homelessness: 2022 Edition. Retrieved from NAEH – Sukhadeo, M., & Koli, M.L. (2019). Street Children in India: A Critical Analysis. Social Work in Public Health, 34(1), 20-34. – Tsemberis, S., Gulcur, L., & Nakae, M. (2004). Housing First, Consumer Choice, and Harm Reduction for Homeless Individuals with a Dual Diagnosis. American Journal of Public Health, 94(4), 651-656. – United Nations Human Settlements Programme. (2020). World Cities Report 2020: The Value of Sustainable Urbanization. Retrieved from UN-Habitat This structured essay provides an in-depth exploration of homelessness as a contemporary social problem while adhering to your guidelines on layout and content requirements.   This question has been answered. Get Answer

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