Social Problems &
Issues
Form 1
Mrs. R. Clarke
Objectives: At the end of this class students
should be able to:
Define Identify Discuss
• Define the term • Identify social • Discuss the
social problems problems & consequences of
issues in the social problems
Caribbean and issues
What is a Social Problem?
• A social problem is a pattern of negative
behaviors that affects many people.
• A social problem is a problem/problems
that affects individuals directly and
indirectly.
• Social problems have negative impacts on
society.
List of Social Problems
❑ Crime • Prostitution
❑ Violence • Juvenile Delinquency
❑ Drug & Alcohol Abuse • Gang Violence
❑ Teenage Pregnancy • Homelessness
❑ Unemployment • Poverty
❑ Child Abuse
❑ Gambling
Unemployment- A person who is
Causes of without a job.
Social
Problems No jobs available
&
Lack of education and relevant skills
Consequences
Incapable of working because of
sickness
Unemployment
• This issue leads to other social problems such as:
• Poverty – lack of basic needs such as food, shelter and water
• Crime- Stealing, petty theft ( taking someone’s item without their consent), rape,
fraud etc.
• Crimes occurs when laws are broken. It can happen at any level of society: poor,
middle class and upper class- poor and the rich.
• Gambling- people bet money on an event that has an uncertain outcome with
hopes of winning. People also play online games and games in general to gain
money.
Drug Abuse & Alcoholism
• Drug abuse & Alcoholism- addiction to illegal substances such as: cocaine,
marijuana, heroin and other hard drugs, and alcohol.
• Drugs & alcoholism increases violence including domestic violence
• Drunk driving
• Loss of jobs or productivity
• Health issues
Juvenile Delinquency
Young people under the age of 18 who commits crimes are called ‘Juvenile
Delinquents’. Some of these crimes are theft, assaults (hitting someone) or
vandalism etc.
This issue stems from lack of respect and morals in the home.
Some young people are products
of dysfunctional homes.
Poor parenting
Peer pressure
Lack of mentorship or guidance
Teenage Pregnancy
• Young teenage girls become
pregnant by engaging in sexual
activities or rape.
• It threatens the health of the
teenage mother and the unborn
child.
• It puts a financial strain on
society
•Prostitution: The use of the human body for monetary and
social benefits
• This can lead to:
• Rape
• Human trafficking
• Child exploitation (Child abuse)
• Health Issues such as HIV/ AIDS
• Organised crimes
This is when a child is mistreated, or his/
her rights are denied. This includes:
Physical abuse- excessive beatings
Child Sexual abuse- involvement in unwanted
sexual acts such as touching
Abuse
Emotional abuse- involves threats and
neglected affection
Neglect- this is when a child’s physical and
emotional needs are not provided.
• Children are forced
take part in sexual
activities in exchange
for favors, treats or
money.
Consequences for Social Problems & Issues
There are many ways in which social problems and issues can be solved.
1. Juvenile Detention or Rehabilitation Centres
2. Imprisonment for crimes such as , drug abuse & alcoholism, gambling,
violence, rape etc
3. Death, Health Issues, Mental Problems, Poverty, Bad Reputation
Institutions that handles social problems and Issues
1. Social Welfare agencies- they provide support for individuals or groups who
needs assistance. These groups or individuals are determined by:
a. age
b. health problems
c. economic problems (poverty)
d. homelesness
e. crime (youth- at risk)
f. substance abuse and addiction
Child Welfare agencies- Children’s health
Hospitals and clinics
Drug rehabilitation centres
Rape and crisis centres
Religious organisations
Probation offices
Police services
Solutions for Social Problems & Issues
There are many ways in which social problems and issues can be solved.
1. Counselling –it allows individuals to share their issues and problems with
people (family, friends or experts)who are willing to listen and give sound
advice.
2. Counselling helps a person to understand their problems and find ways to
cope with the issue and overcome the issue.
Solutions
• 1. Proper parenting- Parents need to instill good morals and values in their
homes.
• Spend time with their children- get involved in their daily activities
Peer Mentoring
• This “takes place between a person who has had experience of a particular
situation or set of circumstances and a person who is experiencing these
things for the first time.
• For example, an ex- drug addict helping a young person who is addicted to
drugs.
• Peer mentors share their experiences and how they overcame those
challenges to encourage and assist those who are struggling.
Homework
• 1. What are some of the social problems or issues in Barbados?
• 2. Write a letter to the government of Barbados stating three ways in which
you can help reduce crime and violence and unemployment.
