Social problems did not exist as much as they were constructed in ways that enabled them to be recognized. Next, social problems need legitimation . We do just do not have much knowledge about this process, since it is scarcely studied. As was mentioned in class, one suspects that it helps to legitimate social problems by framing them in ways that are consonant with what the dominant culture, prevailing ideologies, and the interests of the powerful . The mass media have become critical for this stage.
Social problems are the result of public relations .
Formulation of proposed responses follows. Here social movements often have to act more like interest groups and again as in legitimation qualify what they want done so as to accommodate other powerful actors, groups and instititutions, as when social reformers end up pushing for incremental reforms even when more dramatic social policy changes might be required to abolish poverty, end homelessnes, support families, empower the disabled, support the mentally ill, etc. Implementation is the last stage. This stage is like peace in the Middle East. Agreeing is one thing, actually carrying it out is another.