1. The description of the topic as it has become considered a problem i.e. the issues and actors that are involved in the “social construction” of this social problem. In this part of the paper I will be looking for explanations for what the social/historical circumstances are surrounding how and why it has emerged as an issue. Additionally, I will be looking for competing or conflicting explanations and why they are so. (worth 20 points).

2. In the second part of the paper, I ask that you relate specific elements of sociological thinking that might help us understand the differing explanations for the “problem”. These may be theories, or insights of particular sociologists, analysts, researchers or writers (most of these will be found in your book). (worth 20 points).

3. The final part of the paper will use the insights described in the second part to predict how differing consitutiencies will suggest how we might – if not solve, at least work against the identified social problem (remember some may not see the issue as needing a solution…depending on the perspectives described in the first part of the paper). (worth 20 points)