Trends and Topics in "Social Problems" 1953-1975: A Content Analysis and a Critique

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Abstract
The founders of the Society for the Study of Social Problems stressed the importance of emphasizing vital social problems and encouraging the formulation of social policies. Now in its twenty-fifth anniversary year, criticism has been leveled against the Society for not adhering to these original goals. A content analysis of all articles published from 1953 to 1975 in the Society's official journal, Social Problems, was undertaken to determine what social-problem topics have been included, their comparative frequency in various time periods, and related trends. Articles were also evaluated on the basis of their structural or individualistic orientations. Each article was examined for policy suggestions, the type of policy, the audience to whom suggested policy was directed, and trends in policy suggestions. Findings and trends are reported and summarized, and some practical suggestions are offered.