Social Problems and the Quality of Life focuses on the ways in which social problems affect the quality of life. It begins by defining social problems and discussing the tools needed to understand and respond to problems. It then moves on to an examination of specific problems in terms of: the nature and extent of the problem; how the problem affects people's quality of life; the structural and social psychological factors that cause and tend to perpetuate the problem; and what can be done to resolve the problem. Along with the discussion, a number of learning aids makes this text personal, practical, and an interactive learning experience.