SOCW 6361

Walden University

A social problem is a concept whose definition is contextual. In general terms, a social problem refers to conditions in the society that cause a disruption or damage. The problem breaks the fabric that holds the society together on the set of agreed principles. Social problems are an array of conditions. In the context of sociology, the description of a social problem takes a different approach is analyzed differently. In this approach, the definition takes a constructionist path ("Social Problems", 2019). In this path, a social problem is explained as a process instead of a typical condition. The process in introspection is on how social problems are formed socially. The constructionist approach centers on the reason behind people classifying some conditions in society as a social problem and how these conditions deserve to be classified as a social problem. This process of social problem classification is a complex one. It involves several stakeholders. The problem commences on the understanding of some condition that is to be classified as a problem. Understanding takes different ways to identify the areas that need addressing. Responses are welcomed and reworked on. It involves construction and reconstruction by the stakeholders. Stakeholders include the media, social-problems workers, policymakers, and the general public. The social workers who are stakeholders in this process are concerned with implementing policy, criticization, and the evaluation of the effectiveness of the policy to be implemented. The complexity of the process makes it hard to have a definite stipulated timeline. Some claims are solved in a fast manner, whereas others present a lot of challenges.

Social policy development focuses empirically on the enhancement and provision of welfare to the members of the society through policies and practices (Midgley & Livermore, 2008). However, this is from a narrow perspective. From a broader perspective, social policy enhances the betterment of individual lives and is associated with capitalism. Herein, the paper addresses the identification and description of a current social problem by identifying a policy to address the social challenge.

An ingenious social worker is supposed to demonstrate professional policy advocacy skills no matter the area of specialization they operate in (Jansson, 2018). In line with professional policy, advocacy is expertise in pointing out of social problems that are present in the communities, agency, or organization with which the social worker is acquainted with. This aspect falls under the identification of a social problem category. Upon identification of a social problem, the next process that takes effect is the creation and implementation of policies that will address the identified social problem (Jansson, 2018). The developed social policies span areas such as unemployment, poverty, health care, families, pensions, activation, education, and care.

As an astute clinical social worker, one is obligated to ensure the physical and social wellbeing of the families that one works with. In the job profession, there exist social problems that can be identified and policies formulated to address them effectively. One of the current social problems is domestic violence. Domestic violence is a complicated social problem and a terrifying form of abuse. It affects the majority of the members of society. This problem is incongruent with social work ethics as it goes against the values of valuing other members of society. It entails physical, psychological, and sexual abuse inflicted on a previous or current intimate partner ("Domestic Violence | Encyclopedia.com", 2020). The social problem subjects harm to the affected individuals. Domestic violence takes two forms. They are physical and emotional abuse.

The social problem has reached to all corners of the society since time immemorial. The social problem is common in all classes, races, religions, cultures, and even wealth status ("Domestic violence: the issue explained", 2001). It has no boundaries. Initially, domestic violence was referred to as wife-beating. The wife-beating was regarded as illegal in all the states by the year 1920. It was not until the 1970s that the criminal justice system implemented measures that started to regard domestic violence as a grave crime ("Domestic Violence | Encyclopedia.com", 2020). Previously, domestic violence was a private family matter, but that was in the past. These actions by the criminal justice system were focused on addressing the concern.

The groups affected by this concern have shifted over time. At first, it was the women who were the victims of the act. That is why it was originally referred to as wife-beating. Over the years, domestic violence incorporates violence against men too. It incorporates criminal behaviors such as assault and battery, homicide, harassment, and sexual assault. The policy area related to domestic violence is wellbeing and welfare. This identified policy is dictated by a combination of local, state, and federal statutes. This area of policy concerns the enhancement of the welfare of the people, social cohesion, and justice for all. These are the different aspects of the policy. The current policy has been in force since the 1970s and is supported by the criminal justice system in all levels of government ("Domestic Violence | Encyclopedia.com", 2020). There has been no notable opposition to the policy in place. Changes and amendments made to the policy include stalking and the going against civil restraining order into the policy on domestic violence.

As a clinical social worker, the policy influences the interaction with clients in the office who are victims or perpetrators of domestic violence. It will define how I get to handle them and the inclusion of law enforcement bodies such as the police in these matters. As a clinical social worker, it is essential to advocate for change as violence against fellow human beings is undesired. In conclusion, the provision of welfare should not only be a government job but also have employers, non-governmental institutions, churches, and markets take part collectively (Community Toolbox, n.d).

Reference

justice. (8th ed.). Pacific Grove, CA: Brooks/Cole Cengage Learning Series. Chapter 7, "Analyzing Problems in the First Step of Policy Analysis" (pp. 204-243)

Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage Publications. Chapter 14, "Critical Social Policy" (pp. 215–235) (PDF)

Social Problems. (2019). Retrieved 19 September 2020, from