Social Problems: An Introduction to Critical Constructionism

"This impressive and accessible volume uses a unique theoretical framework to discuss and analyze some of the most important social problems at the dawn of the twenty-first century. It is packed with insightful information that will be useful to students, scholars, and educated laymen alike."--William Julius Wilson, Harvard University

"From the opening words, I found the book to be exciting, vibrant, and engaging. As I was reading, I found that I could not put the book down. I have NEVER had that experience with any other textbook. I have previously used "standard" social problems texts for the course, and would characterize Heiner's book as different from (and superior to) those so-called standard texts. Heiner has managed to skillfully and successfully integrate a variety of material into the current configuration of chapters. I will absolutely adopt this new edition."--Kathy Zawicki, St. Bonaventure University

"I have yet to find a book that does a better job in taking a critical examination of the major social problems facing America. I would like to thank Oxford for not copying the typical format of Social Problems textbooks."--Herbert Ziegler, Chesapeake College

"This is a short social problems text that avoids the 'laundry list' approach to studying social problems by focusing on four specific areas of social life: inequality, family, crime and environment. It presents a clear theoretical approach that melds the best of symbolic interactionist approaches to social problems without losing focus on social inequality."--Karen Kendrick, Albertus Magnus College