Functionalism
Structural-Functional Approach - a system of many interrelated parts

More Recent Functionalism- Problems as Dysfunctions

Manifest- functions that are intended and widely recognized (ex: reason why I go to school is to better my education)
Latent- functions that are unintended, consequence but still functional (ex: taking an elective is something I must do to receive my education, but don't need that class)
Dysfunction- something that does not function for society (ex: high-cost tuition)

Society is basically good, problems are the result of deficient people, too rapid change, or dysfunctional consequences

Poverty & Wealth

Early social pathology theory and the later culture of poverty see personal flaws and the culture of poor communities as the causes of poverty
Social disorganization theory links poverty and other social problems to rapid social change
The Davis and Moore theory explains that a system of unequal rewards draws talent to important work and encourages effort, in the process creating social stratification
Gans points out that inequality is useful primarily to richer people

Racial and Ethnic Inequality

Highlights the importance of culture to social standing. Various categories of the population have differing cultural orientations that affect patterns of education and achievement
The "culture of poverty" thesis developed by Oscar Lewis is one example of a theory to explain why some low-income people view a fatalistic view of their situation
Traditional or fatalistic culture can be a barrier to achievement for some categories of people

	Creado por Jay Davalos hace casi 11 años

Social Problems Apunte sobre Social Problems - Theoretical Perspectives, creado por Jay Davalos el 22/09/2013.