Social Problems: Sociology in Action 3rd edition (third edition)

About this book

Social Problems: Sociology in Action 3rd edition by Maxine P. Atkinson and Kathleen Odell Korgen provides an active learning approach to understanding major social problems through sociological theory, research, discussion, and practical investigation. The book emphasizes applying sociological knowledge to real world issues and encourages students to examine how social structures, institutions, culture, and inequality shape contemporary problems.

The 3rd edition covers the sociological imagination, social construction of problems, social research, poverty and economic inequality, race and ethnicity, gender, crime, education, health, family life, environmental concerns, and other major social issues. Chapter activities emphasize collaboration, investigation, discussion, data interpretation, and development of evidence informed responses to social problems.

This textbook is intended primarily for undergraduate students taking social problems, introductory sociology, and related social science courses. Its activity based structure is especially useful for courses that emphasize discussion, applied sociology, independent investigation, and connecting sociological concepts with current social conditions and community issues.

Sociology students and other social science students can use this 2025 edition to analyze social problems, apply sociological theories, evaluate evidence, investigate structural causes, and consider possible social responses. The complete 3rd edition is available as a searchable PDF enhanced digital version with instant access for coursework, assignments, class activities, research preparation, and examination review.