This course describes social problems in contemporary societies especially Macao and China, and identifies how these problems affect and is affected by social forces, institutions, and culture. We will examine a series of long-standing and emergent social problems including gambling, aging, prostitution, substance abuse, violence, crime, inequality, racial and ethnic conflict, sex discrimination, health care, family issues, urban problems, population and food, environmental problems, and terrorism. We will try to identify the causes, distribution, and consequences of these problems. We will learn about theoretical perspectives that provide insights into social problems and empirical research that contributes evidence to the understanding of the problems. We will also assess social policies designed to mitigate the negative consequences of social problems.

CILO-1: Describe social problems in contemporary societies especially Macao and China. CILO-2: Describe theories and research on social problems. CILO-3: Assess the promises and limitations of policies for alleviating the negative consequences of social problems. CILO-4: Explain how personal issues are related to larger social problems and vice versa.