This social problems text features an applied approach that looks at the interplay between research and policy in finding solutions, along with a built-in student study guide. Sullivan's Introduction to Social Problems explores the nature and extent of social problems, documents the advances and setbacks that we as a society have made, and analyzes what works and what doesn't work regarding solutions to today's problems. The author, an applied sociologist, shows how scientific research is used to address and correct some of the most difficult and controversial problems confronting the United States and the world today.