2.1 The Developmental Stages of a Social Problem

In Module 1, we discussed some of the difficulties in defining a social problem and the fact that various parties often try to influence public perceptions of social problems. These issues aside, most social problems go through a natural history consisting of several stages of their development (Spector and Kitsuse 2001).

Stage 1. Claims Making

A social issue arises when a group advocating for social change, the news media, or influential politicians draw attention to a situation or behavior they consider undesirable and in need of a solution. In this initial stage, known as the claims-making process, the entity works to shape public perceptions regarding the problem, its causes, and potential solutions. Success in turning a condition or behavior into a recognized social problem depends on the resources of the involved entities. While individual efforts may have limited impact, collective actions, such as protests or political engagement, wield greater influence in bringing about a social problem. Politicians, with their access to the media and other influential channels, play a significant role in shaping public opinion on social issues. Studies often focus on the grassroots efforts of social change groups and larger movements, as these endeavors frequently initiate the recognition of social problems.

Stage 2. Legitimacy

After successfully framing a condition or behavior as a social problem, a group typically endeavors to influence the government at various levels (local, state, and/or federal) to take action, both in terms of expenditure and policymaking, to address the identified problem. In this endeavor, the group seeks to persuade the government that its assertions regarding the problem are valid, making logical sense, and being substantiated by empirical (research-based) evidence. The degree of success in convincing the government of the legitimacy of these claims directly correlates with the likelihood of government intervention.

Stage 3. Renewed Claims Making

For instance, where government action takes place, social change groups frequently find the undertaken measures to be insufficient in terms of goals or scope to effectively tackle the identified social problem. Upon reaching this realization, these groups often opt to renew their advocacy efforts. This involves restating their claims and offering critiques of the official response received from the government or other entrenched interests, such as major corporations. This stage may entail considerable tension between the social change groups and the entities targeted by their claims.

Stage 4. Alternative Strategies

Even with the renewed efforts in claims-making, social change groups often conclude that the government and established interests are not providing a sufficient response to their assertions. While these groups may persist in pressing their claims, they recognize the possibility of inadequate responses from established interests. This recognition prompts them to formulate their own strategies for addressing social problems.