social problems topics for research paper

• Write my thesis
• Thesis writers
• Buy thesis papers
• Bachelor thesis
• Master's thesis
• Thesis editing services
• Thesis proofreading services
• Buy a thesis online
• Write my dissertation
• Dissertation proposal help
• Pay for dissertation
• Custom dissertation
• Dissertation help online
• Buy dissertation online
• Cheap dissertation
• Dissertation editing services
• Write my research paper
• Buy research paper online
• Pay for research paper
• Research paper help
• Order research paper
• Custom research paper
• Cheap research paper
• Research papers for sale
• Thesis subjects
• How It Works

100+ Social Issues Research Paper Topics

There are many issues in society to write about, making social issue essay topics some of the most fun. However, choosing a social topic for an essay isn’t as easy as it sounds, especially when there are several social essay topics. The secret to choosing the best among the many social topics is knowing what makes the best social topics for an essay, the best.

This article will give you workable tips for choosing a great topic on specific social issues, argumentative essay topics , and social topics. We will also throw in 100 topics on social issues; they can serve as your social topic or inspiration for choosing.

What Are Top Tips for Choosing Social Topics to Write About?

What characterizes the best social issue topics, social issue topics list, fascinating research topics on social issues, interesting social commentary topics, interesting social issues on social media, ideas of social issues essay topics on health, socially significant topics to write on, social issues research topics for a professional paper on the environment, top-rated socially relevant topics, cool social issues to research on criminal justice, social problem topics for college students, issues in america to write about, argumentative essay topics on social issues, unique social issues to write a research paper on.

When it comes to social problems essay topics, the list is endless; there are so many social issues to talk about. However, not all social problem topics will make a great paper, and the wrong social issue topic can reduce your grade. Below are the top practical tips for choosing social issues topics for presentation.

• Choose easy social issues to write about – avoid trying to impress your professor by choosing complex social problems topics you can’t do justice to.
• Choose social problem topics or social media research topics that your audience can relate to and find interesting.
• When choosing from the myriads of social problems to write about, choose those with sufficient information. Also, you don’t want social problem essay topics you’ll have to walk miles to gather information on.
• Pick as many good social issues to write about as possible; chances are you will change issues essay topics midway. You don’t have to return to searching for current issues to write about.
• Source for articles that address problems in society to write about for an idea on how to write yours.

The “best” social topics, like social commentary essay topics, are those you’re passionate about. It would help if you cared about the social issue ideas you’ve decided to write on to do real justice to the paper. Writing an essay on them will be torture if you don’t care or know anything about social commentary ideas. Also, if your audience is clueless about a particular topic, consider omitting technical and social significance topics.

Interesting social topics are not hard to find if you know where to look. We will give you a social issues topics list here, but you can still find social issues ideas all over the internet. Find our social topics list below containing interesting and uncommon social issues for a distinction-worthy paper.

• Political polarization
• Racism in modern society’s healthcare
• Ageism: the new racism?
• The fairness of labor laws
• Fat-shaming in the corporate world
• Recovering addicts and social injustice
• Child pornography
• Prisoner rights violations: the types
• Making vaccinations mandatory
• Online education impact on obesity
• Increasing employment: the solution to poverty?
• Accessibility of healthcare in mobile clinics
• Women empowerment
• Social development in developing countries
• Overpopulation: a threat?
• How social networks impact friendship
• Age restriction on Instagram
• Social media effect on dependency
• Business Facebook accounts and digital ethics
• Cancel culture and mental health
• Restricting children from social media
• How to stay safe on the internet
• Freedom of speech on Twitter
• High cost of medical procedures
• Obesity in developed countries
• Abortion: legal or illegal?
• Drug addiction
• Hospices: should they be free?
• Why HIV in seniors remains unrecognized
• Dying with dignity
• Pro-life movement origins
• The social acceptance of autism
• Effect of malnourishment on children’s psyche
• Impact of fad diets
• Discrimination against older adults
• Acceptability of homeopathic treatment for children
• The scarcity of and state of available healthcare facilities in rural areas
• Poverty and health problems
• Ensuring global access to drinking water
• Implementing sustainable technology in agriculture
• Benefits of studying the environment
• Urban gardening and food security
• Deteriorating environment effect on labor conditions
• Religion and nature
• Global warming impact on South America
• Effect of racial profiling
• Prevalence of hate speech
• Discrimination against the LGBT community
• Modern feminism: the negative impact on society
• Pregnancy termination: morality vs. legality
• Food culture
• Emotional intelligence: impact on family life
• Harmful effects of financial illiteracy
• The perception of “Defund the police.”
• Evidence of structural racism
• The internet’s influence on human trafficking
• Legalizing prostitution
• Civil disobedience goals
• The consequences of restoring prisoners to society
• Influence of prejudices on criminal justice mechanics
• Prominent civil rights violations in developing countries
• Gender blindness
• Gender dysphoria
• The Khmer Rouge
• Social media and racist bias
• Justification of human rights limitations during a crisis
• How governments can secure freedom of speech
• Can satire be harmful?
• Protection of stateless persons
• Can illegal immigrants be pardoned?
• War on drugs: the negative side effects
• The importance of bipartisan cooperation
• College loans: are they worth it?
• Fake news: a severe problem?
• Charter schools vs. public schools
• The Great New Deal: pros and cons
• Gentrification in America
• Ableism effects in the US
• Death penalty: a just punishment?
• Healthcare: a fundamental human right?
• The right to own a gun
• Does history repeat itself?
• Commercials in kids’ programs
• Fiction vs. nonfiction: which is the better read?
• Video games should be a sport
• Hot dogs: have they caused more harm than good?
• Eating dessert before dinner
• Homework: is it too much?
• Should gym classes be required?
• The essentiality of feminism
• Free healthcare for everyone
• Exploring space: is it worth it?
• Parents’ role in childhood obesity
• Woman vs. man: who is more emotional?
• The effects of campaign finance reform
• Should illegal immigrants be granted residency?

With this list of social topics and others you’ll find on the internet, you can’t be short of social issues to talk about. Choosing the best social issues topics is essential for writing a great research paper,or write dissertation for me ranging from social change topics to social awareness topics. Considering the vast amount of community issues to write about, our tips on choosing from the best social relevance topics will come in handy. If you need professional writing services, you can contact our experts.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Presentations made painless

• Get Premium

108 Social Issues Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

Inside This Article

Social issues are complex and multifaceted problems that affect individuals, communities, and societies as a whole. These issues can range from poverty and inequality to discrimination and environmental degradation. Writing an essay on a social issue can be a daunting task, but it can also be a rewarding experience that allows you to explore and analyze important topics that impact the world around you.

To help you get started, here are 108 social issues essay topic ideas and examples that you can use as inspiration for your next writing assignment:

• The impact of social media on mental health
• Income inequality and its effects on society
• Police brutality and the Black Lives Matter movement
• The rise of fake news and its impact on democracy
• Gender inequality in the workplace
• Climate change and its effects on vulnerable communities
• The opioid crisis and its impact on communities
• The criminal justice system and racial disparities
• Homelessness and poverty in America
• The refugee crisis and global migration patterns
• LGBTQ+ rights and discrimination
• The rise of nationalism and its impact on global politics
• Gun control and mass shootings in America
• Environmental racism and its effects on marginalized communities
• The impact of globalization on developing countries
• Mental health stigma and access to treatment
• Cyberbullying and online harassment
• The #MeToo movement and sexual harassment in the workplace
• Access to healthcare and the rising cost of medical care
• The impact of technology on social relationships
• Food insecurity and hunger in America
• The effects of gentrification on low-income communities
• Disability rights and accessibility
• The criminalization of poverty and homelessness
• Human trafficking and modern-day slavery
• The impact of colonialism on indigenous communities
• The rise of authoritarianism and threats to democracy
• The education achievement gap and disparities in schools
• Mental health challenges facing college students
• The impact of social isolation on mental health
• The influence of religion on social norms and values
• The effects of gentrification on cultural identity
• The impact of social media on political discourse
• The role of activism in social change
• Access to clean water and sanitation in developing countries
• The impact of social media on body image and self-esteem
• The effects of income inequality on public health
• The criminalization of drug addiction and mental illness
• The impact of climate change on indigenous communities

These are just a few examples of social issues that you can explore in your essay. Remember to choose a topic that you are passionate about and that you feel strongly about. Researching and writing about social issues can be a powerful way to raise awareness and advocate for change in the world. Good luck with your essay!

Want to create a presentation now?

Instantly Create A Deck

Let PitchGrade do this for me

Hassle Free

We will create your text and designs for you. Sit back and relax while we do the work.

Explore More Content

• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Service

© 2023 Pitchgrade

We use cookies to give you the best experience possible. By continuing we’ll assume you’re on board with our cookie policy

• A Research Guide
• Research Paper Topics

40 Social Issues Research Paper Topics

Useful information: Where can I pay someone to write my research paper ?

List of 40 Social Issues Topics for College Students

• Religious gatherings and rituals
• Country-wide strikes and protest
• LGBTQ+ prides
• Worldwide flashmobs
• Social stratification
• Gender discrimination and anti-harassment movements
• The issues of orphanage kids
• Pornography and AI sex dolls
• Sex work or paid rape?
• Virtual reality
• Information overload: the society is overstressed with the amount of data
• Demographic crisis
• Beauty standards
• Social isolation of people with HIV/AIDS
• The fight against animal testing
• Internet safety
• Humanitarian missions
• Fighting racism
• The rights of ethnic minorities and native people
• Internet safety and cybercrimes
• The necessity of the death penalty
• Fighting poverty in the world
• Access to the drinking water in third world countries
• Free education for everyone: shall it be implemented?
• National identity versus globalization
• Women rights and trans people rights
• Obesity as an obstacle in social life. Fatshaming
• Civil rights: shall they be expanded?
• Abuse and neglect in asylums, orphanages, and care homes
• Church and state: shall they remain separate?
• The problem of bigotry in modern society
• Immigration and resocialization of the immigrants
• Sustainable consumption on a worldwide scale
• School violence
• Legalizing drugs: basic rights to choose or a danger to society?
• Social isolation. The hikikomori phenomenon
• Bullying at schools and colleges
• Kids transitioning: shall it be allowed?
• Advertisements: are they becoming too powerful?
• The global impact of the third world countries

By clicking "Log In", you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy . We'll occasionally send you account related and promo emails.

Sign Up for your FREE account

300 Social Issues Research Topics to Impress Your Professor and Get A

Researching social issues holds immense importance in our quest for knowledge and progress. It allows us to delve deeper into the complexities of society, unraveling the underlying causes, impacts, and potential solutions. However, the significance of a good research topic must be considered, which sets the stage for a high-scoring and impactful research endeavor. If you have difficulty finding a good social issue research topic, check out these lists from the experts working with a professional  paper writing services  provider.

Table of Contents

Comprehensive list of Unique Social Issue Research Topics

Scroll down and go through our list of unique topics and pick one that sparks your interest. Here you go with the first one: 

Women’s Social Issues Research Topics 

It’s crucial to look into the various aspects of women’s social issues if we want to get a better understanding of gender inequality. Here are some ideas to help you dig deeper into this topic.

• Prejudice against women in corporate culture
• Problems of pregnant women working in the corporate
• Harassment in educational institutes against women
• What strategies can governments adopt to ensure equal rights for women?
• Raising awareness of the problems of pregnant women
• How to develop a respectful attitude towards women and gender minorities in companies?
• Ill-treatment of women in the government sector
• Writing on essay topics related to problems with Syrian female immigrants
• The Role of Women in economic life and the World of Work
• Women’s political and electoral training
• Women in old homes: Research and Interviews for Problems and Concerns
• Toxic Masculinity in the Workplace: what can women do?
• Developing a workplace culture for fair treatment of every gender
• Role of Government in solving problems related to Women
• The economy of the United States: Income inequality in the U.S.
• Building a world where women have equal opportunities and fair treatment
• Essay Topics Related to Problems of Women in New York
• Financial problems for single mothers
• Women dealing with social issues in New Mexico
• Condition of Mexican immigrant women in the United States
• Women’s health: Key performance indicators, problems and obstacles
• Securing Women’s Rights with the Help of international law
• Education of women: The rights and responsibilities
• Better living conditions for older women
• A research study of the problems of pregnant women in California
• Health and welfare of older people, especially women
• Improving the quality of life for single mothers with better opportunities

Children’s Social Issues Research Topics 

It’s important to tackle the social issues that affect kids to create a better, more nurturing future for the next generation. Here are some interesting topics on this subject to get started with  writing your research paper . 

• School Bullying and social networks
• Problems and issues with children with a single parent
• A research study on the problems of children in foster homes
• How can we make foster care better and safer for children?
• Delinquency trends in children among marginalized communities
• modernity and technology at the cost of the destruction of childhood
• Issues that children from Mexican households in America have to face
• What are the advantages of multiculturalism in kindergarten?
• Problems of Assault and Molestation of Children
• Why Are Young People Committing Crimes These Days?
• Cyberbullying and Toxicity on social media
• Violence among children and young people
• Rehabilitation of juvenile offenders and improving their lives
• Illness and disability among kids living in developing countries
• The lack of tolerance among the teenagers
• Child labor in developing countries
• Psychology of kindergarten education
• School is a chance for every kid to learn tolerance and harmony
• Children facing with lack of empathy and bullying on social media
• The use of new technologies in education and adaptability in children
• Problems of immigrant children
• Child development and behavior

Social Issues Research Topics About Labor Rights

It’s essential to look into the social issues surrounding workers’ rights and fight for their well-being. Labor rights are the foundation of having fair and decent working conditions. Here are some topics if you want to research such subjects.

• The legal responsibility of entrepreneurs
• Workplace accident management
• Increased flexibility via remote working options
• Mental health problems caused by workers after the COVID pandemic
• The principle of equality today is related to labor rights
• Change wages or salaries
• Labor problems caused by the Covid pandemic
• Employees having to deal with additional work pressures
• Role of labor unions in social justice for Laborers
• Mental health problems in the Workplace
• What can we do to offer ideas for improvements in labor laws
• The desire to maintain a healthy work-life balance
• Hate speech and domestic violence against marginalized groups in large companies
• Academic paper for immigration disruptions in Canada and USA
• The employer’s right to manage employees and the abuse of it
• Role of human resources in identifying and solving problems of labor
• The job of the government and schools is to offer their members better career prospects
• Problems and issues related to a minimum period of employment
• The technology skills gap leads to problems with the laborers
• Improving the well-being of the company for its members
• Change wages or salaries impact and consequences
• How the global pandemic and Working from home changed the World
• Recruiting methods from passive to active: how to prepare
• Global labor shortages: problems and consequences
• What are the reasons for the labor shortage?
• Writing assignment about laborers dealing with the effects of long Covid
• Why is it essential for companies to take a public stand for social issues
• Mental health problems for workers in the field
• Relevant examples of social issues related to labor and employment
• How to empower workers against social injustice?

Social Issues Research Topics for the Environment

It’s important to dig into how social issues and the environment are connected when we’re trying to handle big problems like climate change, running out of resources, etc. Here are some  research topics  to think about.

• Health risks associated with the general environment and their perception and representation
• Climate change knowledge and expertise on health risks
• Health inequalities resulting from environmental and social factors
• What Role can environmental law play in protecting the environment at sea?
• Deforestation and chronic pollution are destroying biodiversity
• Importance of green energy conversion
• The Law of the Environment and sustainable development
• The Management of Pollution in Environmental Law
• Toward a better understanding of atmospheric pollution
• Utilizing environmental technologies and learning about them
• Waste and material resources of the World
• The destruction of ozone affects the environment and health
• Nature’s resources are being destroyed. What can we do as researchers to prevent this?
• Is it still imperative to preserve the environment during wartime?
• Combating armed conflict while preserving the environment
• The tourism industry and pollution management
• Environmental factors that affect cancer risk
• Cost-benefit analysis of the action based on legal or socioeconomic criteria
• Analyzing how different environmental factors contribute to the risk
• Investigating a variety of environmental issues and sectors
• Regions and specific areas of environmental perception
• The effects of climate change and global warming
• Factors contributing to a healthy environment
• The relationship between human rights and environmental law
• In environmental law, pollution management is a constant
• Worldwide implementation of sustainable development
• How consumption trends and international news can help the environmental cause

Social Issues Research Topics Related to Covid Pandemic

The Covid-19 pandemic has changed how we live and has spotlighted all kinds of social issues that need to be looked into and solved. So, if you would like to research social issues related to the recent pandemic, check out this list for current social issues for research paper:

• Social panic caused after the COVID-19 breakdown
• Problems and social issues caused by the COVID-19 pandemic
• COVID-19 and financial problems on the rise
• Impact of COVID-19 on the people with middle class
• Police Procedure and criminal justice during the COVID-19
• The aftermath of COVID-19 has resulted in a social dilemma and economic disruption
• An influential aspect of the pandemic is mental health
• The Impact of social and territorial inequalities on health
• The ethical issues raised by the pandemic
• Writing research papers on social media’s Role during COVID-19
• Children and adolescents’ mental condition during the pandemic
• Problems in healthcare and Management of chronic diseases
• Disruption in modern society by the COVID-19
• How our social media accounts helped us during the darkest hours of covid
• Ensuring the delivery of criminal justice during covid
• Impact of COVID-19 on family life
• Role of the Pandemic in the Promotion of remote education
• Avoiding social media addiction during the quarantine

Social Issue Topics Related to American Society

Checking out the social problems in the U.S. gives us a great understanding of how complicated, varied and hard they can be for people and different communities. Here is another list of topics on social issues. 

• Environment perception in specific areas and regions
• Climate change and global warming effects
• The factors that contribute to a healthy environment
• Cancer risk factors in the environment
• Workplace toxic masculinity: what can women do?
• The global labor shortage: problems and consequences
• Why does the U.S. have a shortage of labor?
• Workers dealing with the effects of Covid
• Problems related to mental issues among field workers
• Law and human rights concerning the environment
• Management of pollution is a constant concern in environmental law
• Impacts and consequences of changes in wages or salaries
• How to prepare for passive to active recruitment
• The problem of child labor in developing countries
• Kindergarten Education and Psychology
• Tolerance and harmony can be learned in school by every child
• Lack of empathy and bullying on social media among children
• Technology in Education and Children’s Adaptability
• Legal or socioeconomic cost-benefit analysis of the action
• A major social issue in the modern age is poverty
• Government’s Role in solving social problems
• Sustainable Development of the World
• Trafficking in drugs and Mexican cartels
• A culture of fair treatment for all genders in the Workplace
• Nature’s resources are being depleted.
• Management of pollution in the tourism industry
• How can we use social media to improve society and resolve social problems?
• A lack of respect for marginalized communities in the professional environment can be seen in several ways.
• Understanding social issues and the problems associated with them
• Materials and waste from around the World and the Impact they have on the environment
• The depletion of ozone is detrimental to the environment and human health
• Insights into the political and electoral training of women
• Taking a closer look at Women’s Problems and Concerns in old homes: Research and Interviews
• Issues and problems related to the minimum period of employment and the minimum wage
• The technological skills gap is causing labor shortages shortly
• Enhancing the well-being of the members of the company as a whole

Interesting Social Injustice Topics for College Students

As college students, exploring and engaging with interesting social issues topics expands our intellectual horizons and empowers us to become agents of change in our communities and beyond. Particularly when you include social problems examples. Here is another list of interesting topics.

• Developing better relationships with public institutions to solve problems
• The Role of social work in the Management of health problems
• Corporations discriminate against marginalized communities in the U.S.
• Sociology of the popular classes
• The reasons for the low human development index in African countries
• Social issues caused by class differences
• Drugs and anarchist behaviors
• Religious Differences and biased approaches to employment strategies
• Mexican cartels and the problem of drug trafficking
• Poverty is one of the most significant social issues in the Modern World
• Role of the Government in solving social issues
• How can we use social media to improve society and solve social issues?
• Prejudice against marginalized communities in the professional environment
• Understanding the problems related to social issues
• Role of problem-solving and understanding the root cause of social issues
• Major social issues in developing countries
• Role of Education in ending violence in Society
• Class Differences and the Impact on the human development index
• Differences in health facilities for different classes
• Social Norms and the Role of the Community
• Causes and solutions to human trafficking on the Mexican borders
• Human development index in India
• How to solve the poverty problem?
• What is the problem of social media bullying, and how to avoid it?
• How does financial illiteracy lead to a lack of development in developing countries?
• Impact of Terrorism on Society
• How to solve the terrorism problem?
• Mafia problems in the USA and how to deal with them
• Biased treatment of marginalized communities in the government sector
• The increasing problem of drug addiction
• Ethics and Artificial Intelligence: Emerging social issues
• Role of social media in increasing social issues

Police and Social Justice Research Papers Topics

Let’s unveil a curated collection of current social issues for a research paper. Here’s the list:

• Children’s safety and protection: The security job is of the utmost importance
• School bullying is a serious issue that needs to be addressed
• A few heartrending social issues examples 
• Using the Internet to disseminate terrorist content: a serious issue related to Cybersecurity
• Digital Platform Security Certification – A Guide to Cybersecurity Certifications
• The protection of minors in alcohol-serving establishments
• Concerns regarding cyber security in the United States
• An analysis of the spatial pattern of terrorism in the USA over the past two decades
• New York crime analysis, a look at the crime situation in the City
• Security technologies face several obstacles when it comes to their implementation
• Having the versatility to specialize and the specialization to be versatile in security matters
• Investigative requisitions from the judicial police
• Relationships between the police and the public: The need for improvement
• Conflict Management and Prevention in Communities
• The principle of secularism in sports must be respected
• Stopping the illicit trade in tobacco products
• Towns with small populations and cybersecurity
• Taking care of historical monuments
• Providing support to victims of aggression
• An analysis of the roadside check system in developing countries
• The challenges of reception at a police station for public security
• A system for protecting housing from illegal encroachment
• Anti-abuse and anti-fraud measures
• A diversity of expectations and feedback from the inhabitants
• Taking public security work seriously in terms of its relational dimension
• The issue of external assistance in the area of internal security
• Putting social networks to the test in terms of police ethics

As you have reached the conclusion paragraph of the blog post, you must have picked a topic or two to work for your social issue research paper. Most of the lists have focused on social issues today as they could be very interesting for the readers. Plus, there are a plethora of good topics for you to count on. Just remember that a good research subject must be able to answer, what is a social problem, what is a social issue, and more. Still if you are struggling with picking up a good topic, feel free to count on the expertise of  our writers .

Order Original Papers & Essays

Your First Custom Paper Sample is on Us!

Timely Deliveries

No Plagiarism & AI

100% Refund

Try Our Free Paper Writing Service

Related blogs.

Connections with Writers and support

Privacy and Confidentiality Guarantee

Average Quality Score

A List of 470 Powerful Social Issues Essay Topics

In modern societies, people do everything to live peacefully. Still, tensions often arise. We call them social issues when they start negatively impacting a specific group of people. Poverty, discrimination, and addiction are examples of such problems. We need to confront them to ensure equal treatment for everyone.

Our specialists will write a custom essay specially for you!

Our professional custom writing team created this article to help you write a social issues essay. This comprehensive social issues topics list covers various current problems in America and in the world. Choose among 450 social topics, and get down to writing!

• 🔝 Top 10 Topics

✅ How to Write About Social Issues

• 🌐 Social Media Issues Topics
• 🏥 Health-Related Issues
• 🌳 Environmental Issues
• 🔫 War & Violence
• 🚓 Police & Criminal Justice
• 👨👩 Gender-Related Issues
• 🧔🏿 Racism Topics
• ✈️ Migration & Refugees
• ⚖️ Human Rights Topics
• 🗽 Social Issues in America

🔝 Top 10 Social Issues Topics

• Types of prisoner rights violations.
• Can vaccinations be mandatory?
• What makes overpopulation a threat?
• Online education as a cause of obesity.
• The economic effect of rising sea levels.
• The effects of Gender Pay Gap on economy.
• Ways to stop racial discrimination in schools.
• Can increase of employment help reduce poverty?
• Women empowerment and social development.
• Can mobile clinics make healthcare more accessible?

Writing on topics related to social issues involves thorough research. It also requires sympathy and tact. Following this guide will help you not to step on anybody’s toes.

• Research papers call for an in-depth analysis. Make sure to reference several sources to back up your claims.
• Essays revolve around your opinion. Here, good arguments are crucial.
• Pick the topic . It can be either contemporary or historical. It’s better to choose something you’re interested in. If nothing comes to mind right away, use a writing topic generator .
• Do research . Consult encyclopedias, find books on the topic. It will help you formulate ideas and outline the first draft.
• Consider your audience . How much do they know about your subject? How invested are they? Understanding your readers will help you be more considerate.
• Even if you have strong feelings about your subject, keep your tone neutral. Make sure not to condemn those who hold opposite views.
• Highlight what you personally think is right. Remember that you can’t control how other people will react.
• Be frank. Ask yourself: who am I? How do my experiences fit into my topic? Your honest answers will add unique insights to your paper.
• Double-check your paper. Does everything you wrote logically flow? Does your argumentative structure make sense? Does it support your thesis? If possible, let your assignment sit for a day. You can edit it later with a fresh perspective.

These are the basics you need if you want to write about social issues. Now you can start your research! The first step is to pick one of the excellent topics about social problems from the list below.

🌐 Social Issues Essay Topics Related to Social Media

• Security issues of social media .
• Should Instagram be age-restricted?
• Social networks’ impact on friendships.
• Disadvantages of being an influencer .
• Is there freedom of speech in social media?
• Should social media ban fake information?
• How harmful is social media dependency?
• Should employers check employees’ accounts?
• Online ethics and business Facebook accounts.
• The effect of the cancel culture on mental health.
• Cyberbullying: victim and abuser in the online environment.
• Should children be allowed to have social media accounts?
• Your opinion on memorial pages on social networks for the deceased.
• Ways to stay safe on the internet.

• How should social media websites deal with hate speech?
• Is removing abusive content censorship?
• Explore the correlation between social media and mental disorders.
• Does Instagram change the way we perceive our lives?
• Is modern society forcing us to participate in social networking?
• What is identity theft ?
• Personal isolation and technology in communication.
• The risks of microtransactions in online gaming .
• How does your digital presence influence your real life?
• Why do some people become dependent on social media ?
• Are online networks promoting stalking?
• Discuss the digital divide in Washington.
• Is Twitter’s cancel culture doing more harm than good?
• How do marginalized groups benefit from social media?
• How important is data safety?
• Are people on social media more aggressive than in real life?
• Does the internet shorten our attention span ?
• Ways in which social media impacts your interactions with other people.
• Marketing, social media, and you: how do influencers impact your buying behavior?
• Explore the effect of the internet on students’ lives.
• Is Reddit right to allow outrageous content under the principle of free speech?
• Politics and Twitter: the consequences of Donald Trump’s tweets .
• Does banning online networks from the workplace increase productivity?
• What basic ethical principles go overboard on the Internet ?
• In how far do social media trends reflect on the general public?
• Social media and youth: does it make puberty harder?
• The influence of social media platforms on democracy.
• What would happen if we could rate everyone online? (Think Community ’s episode “App Development and Condiments”)
• Does Instagram inspire a healthy lifestyle?
• Why are likes so important?
• Debate the effects of speaking out in online communities.
• Are Facebook’s profile picture frames a good way of showing support?
• Debate social media policies and code of conduct.
• Is YouTube spreading propaganda?
• Did you ever do something because you’ve read about it on the internet?
• Are Twitter hashtags skewing the political discourse?
• Examine the gendered experiences of people on the internet.
• How do you make yourself heard on social media?
• Evaluate the usefulness of Facebook’s Safety Check feature.
• Discuss the pros and cons of TikTok challenges.
• How does participating in Instagram challenges for social justice help?

🏥 Health-Related Social Issues Topics to Write About

Our health largely depends on the social security system. With access to good healthcare services, we are less likely to develop preventable diseases. Unfortunately, issues are common in the health sector. These interesting essay writing prompts will help you explore social problems related to health:

• Are employers not paying enough attention to their employees’ mental health ?
• What should a person do if they can’t afford medical treatment?
• Why do some countries have higher obesity rates than others?
• Should abortion be legal or illegal?
• Debate whether a ban on tobacco advertising would help decrease smoking.
• What makes Americans start doing drugs ?
• Compare projects that help people overcome their addictions.
• What is the worst substance to be addicted to?
• Who should care for the elders ?
• Should hospices be free?
• Examine why HIV in seniors remains widely unrecognized.
• Should we change the drinking age limit?
• Whose health is mostly affected by pollution ?
• Should parents avoid vaccinating their children?
• What does it mean to die with dignity?
• Should women get extra vacation days at work because of their periods?
• Explore the origins of the pro-life movement .
• Should non-smokers receive additional break time?
• Ways to make navigating easier for visually impaired people .
• Discuss stigma against mentally challenged individuals.
• The benefits of over-the-counter contraception.
• Must women who breastfeed in public cover themselves up?
• Psychoactive drugs in the treatment of psychological diseases.
• Disabilities and stigmatization: how does being disabled affect one’s social status?
• Does gender play an important role in one’s health?
• What health issues are affecting African Americans and Hispanics?
• Expectations and motherhood: being a childfree woman in a kid-centered society.
• How does being malnourished affect a child’s psyche in the long run?
• Investigate suicide rates in Pakistan.
• Discuss the social acceptance of autism spectrum disorders.
• Sociology and psychological diseases: the relationship between circumstance and mental health.
• Write about fad diets and their impact.
• How does the society you live in discriminate against older adults?
• Why is access to quality healthcare unevenly distributed?
• Who should decide when to stop life-prolonging treatments?
• Is homeopathic treatment for children acceptable?
• Describe why going to psychotherapy is widely stigmatized.
• What are the social determinants of health?
• Why is access to healthcare in rural areas so scarce?
• Is the propagation of mindfulness and self-care on social media improving our health?

• Examine the connection between poverty and health problems.
• Where does our society’s general obsession with weight come from?
• Do cultural norms promote drinking alcohol to an unhealthy extent?
• Is coffee a drug?
• How does the depiction of drug use in the media influence the youth?

🌳 Environmental Social Issues Essay Topics

Environmentalism is not just about saving nature. A damaged environment has adverse effects on humanity and its future. Changing weather and frequent natural disasters affect millions of people. Many are forced to flee their homes. Essays on this subject can cover activism or sustainability.

Just in 1 hour! We will write you a plagiarism-free paper in hardly more than 1 hour

• Is Extinction Rebellion’s form of protest too radical?
• What to avoid when traveling in the age of climate change.
• How can we ensure global access to drinking water ?
• The impact of bottled water on the environment.
• Water conservation methods in sub-Saharan Africa.
• The influence of tourism on cultural heritage sites.
• How does society need to change in the future to slow down climate change?
• What caused the rise in climate activism in recent years?
• Innovation vs. tradition: getting traditional farmers to implement new sustainable technology.
• Describe the importance of waste reduction for our ecosystems.
• How can we use our natural resources responsibly?
• Discuss what a sustainable diet is like.
• The role of packaging in marketing, food safety, and environment.
• Why do people deny human-made climate change ?
• Why should sociologists study the environment?
• What made us reliant on single-use plastic products?
• Discuss green infrastructure in water management.
• Debate how Greenpeace influences political decision making.
• In your opinion, what’s the best environmental organization to donate to?
• How successful is PETA in helping animals?
• Should mandatory volunteer work substitute compulsory military service?
• Urban gardening as a means to ensure food security .
• The effect of self-driving electric vehicles on urban environments.
• Compare types of sustainable futuristic cities in literature.
• How does global warming impact indigenous peoples in South America?
• What effects does a deteriorating environment have on labor conditions?
• Explain what Oxfam does.
• How does globalization impact sustainable agriculture?
• What are the most significant achievements of environmental activists in recent years?
• What makes politicians hesitant to take action against climate change ?
• Investigate what happened to the population of Isle de Jean Charles.
• Climate refugees: examine the disasters that cause people to flee their homes.
• What are the unintentional consequences of climate-related relocation projects?
• Explore the connection between nature and religion.
• Ecology and economics: ways to find a balance.
• Communities and health: how the way we handle the environment impacts the spread of disease.
• Investigate methods for responsible consumption.
• Why is sustainable development important for societies?

• Contrast the methods of various environmentalist movements.
• The world’s overpopulation: causes and effects.
• Why can it be difficult to convince older generations to take action against climate change ?
• What are the best things everyone can do to protect the environment ?
• The role of zoos in wildlife endangerment.
• How do changing weather patterns impact our homes?
• What caused the increase in natural disasters over the last decade?

🔫 Social Issues Topics: War & Violence

Scientists still debate if violence is a part of human nature. Wars and terrorist attacks are disastrous events that traumatize millions of people. Still, it’s crucial not to forget about more subtle forms of violence. These include emotional neglect, bullying, and brutality in medical care.

• What are the main reasons for nations to wage war?
• Mental disorders and vulnerability to homicidal death.
• The restoration of Germany after the Second World War.
• Domestic violence in 20th century Canada.
• Describe the most common types of violence against teenagers.
• How does a country’s political situation impact domestic violence?
• Do splatter movies promote violent behavior ?
• Should girls dress modestly to avoid being abused?
• What is the use of war monuments?
• The issue of girl education in India.
• How does war influence the development of children?
• Analyze the accuracy of the events depicted in Sam Mendes’ film 1917 .
• Everything Quiet on the Western Front and the youth’s attitude towards fighting.
• The treatment of veterans in your community.
• Why do people join the army?
• Connection between school bullying and problems in adult life.
• What are the most common reasons for murder ?
• How can a family move on after their child has been kidnapped?
• Why are veterans more likely to commit suicide than average citizens?
• Is human trafficking modern-day slavery?
• Investigate how citizens of Cape Town deal with the high crime rate in their city.
• What events can lead to an increase in crime?
• Explain the socio-economic aftermaths of the Afghanistan war.
• Examine the success of Columbia’s DESEPAZ program.
• What is the origin of domestic violence?
• Do schools in your country work effectively to discourage abusive behavior towards girls?
• Why do men tend not to report domestic violence?
• How does emotional neglect impact children?
• What are the best ways to prevent street violence?
• Is there a connection between the strictness of gun laws and homicide rates ?
• Why do women hesitate to report rape cases?
• Rape and sexual harassment in the military.
• An overview of Japanese mafia culture.
• The connection between education and violence.
• Who profits from war?
• Are the US military expenses justified?
• What does the “guns vs. butter” model describe?
• Give examples of cultural norms justifying violence.
• In how far has globalization impacted violent behavior ?
• What triggers aggression against healthcare workers?
• Ways to manage verbal abuse in social care.
• Examine the Chinese phenomenon of Yi Nao.
• Investigate the recent decriminalization of domestic abuse in Russia.
• What was the impact of the #metoo movement ?
• Bullying and sexual harassment at workplace.

🚓 Police & Criminal Justice Topics to Write About

Everyone should feel safe in their community. That’s what a country’s criminal justice system is for. But humans can make mistakes and be biased. Not everyone feels protected by the current system. What can we do to change that? Explore this question in one of the following creative topics:

• What does the phrase “ defund the police ” mean?
• What makes you feel safe in your community?
• Describe the social standing of police officers in your country.
• Examine if there’s evidence of structural racism in the police.
• Is it possible to achieve true equality ?
• Are all professions in criminal justice equally prestigious?
• Discuss the concept of juvenile crimes.
• Debate castration as a punishment for sexual offenders.
• The influence of the internet on human trafficking .
• What could the police be substituted with?
• How does racial profiling work?
• Should people who abuse drugs go to jail?
• How do people become homeless in big cities?
• Discuss the legitimization of prostitution.
• What causes governments to oppose gay marriage ?
• The safest ways to deescalate riots.
• What are the best methods to discourage people from committing crimes ?
• Define civil disobedience and its goals.
• Victimology and traditional justice system alternatives.
• What makes white-collar crimes more socially acceptable than others?
• Reintroducing prisoners to society: obstacles and consequences.
• Would society profit from the abolition of prisons?
• What are the advantages of community services ?

• How does crime differ in various social classes?
• Justice for women: the legacy of Ruth Bader Ginsburg.
• How do prejudices influence criminal justice mechanics?
• Human services issues from the point of income inequality.
• Why was the Hong Kong national security law installed?
• How did legalizing all drugs affect Portuguese society?
• What are the prominent civil rights issues in your country?
• The Captain of Köpenick : the psychological effect of uniforms.
• Why was racial segregation widely accepted in America?
• How do witness protection programs work?
• The right to privacy vs. safety: a case for surveillance cameras.
• How can one save their reputation after committing a crime?
• Compare the four deviance theories in sociology .
• To what extent can biology explain criminal behavior ?
• Do police officers need guns?
• Should law enforcers need to request permission before using firearms ?
• How did dismantling the police department in Camden, NJ impact crime?
• Explore the connection between militarization and police violence.
• What does the principle of qualified immunity entail?
• Debate the use of body cameras by police officers .
• Police violence and subterfuge.
• What are the social benefits of jury duty?

👨👩 Gender-Related Social Issues Essay Topics

Even today, a lot of people are systematically disadvantaged because of their gender. This problem manifests itself not only in the infamous gender pay gap. For example, in the US, transgender people are banned from serving in the army. And in some countries, women are still denied fundamental rights. If you want to get to the heart of contemporary controversial issues, this section is for you.

• Why is the number of women in positions of power still low?
• Are quotas the only way to guarantee equal hiring processes?
• Pros and cons of unisex bathrooms.
• Why are matriarchal societies rare?
• Describe how the patriarchy holds back women.
• Conflicting theories: gay marriage and feminism.
• Does feminism need to be radical?
• How does gendered marketing affect child development ?
• Should insurance companies pay for sex reassignment therapy?
• Reasons why some people have problems with they/them pronouns.
• What does it mean to be non-binary?
• Investigate the treatment of women in Saudi Arabian society.
• What makes a profession traditionally female?
• Should women be more encouraged to join the military?
• Why is it more challenging for men to get full custody?
• Find historical examples of women who made a change in their society.
• Should professors be required to include more women authors in their reading material?
• Examine the treatment of the transgender community in healthcare.
• Is gender a purely social construct?
• What can a woman do to become more empowered ?
• Can a patriarchal society ever achieve true gender equality ?
• Are Disney princesses good role models?
• Examine the representation of gender variety in popular TV shows.
• Gender identity: promotion of equality for sexual orientation.
• Discuss the connection between gender-biased language and oppression.
• Why are sexist marketing practices still legal?
• Should girls capitalize on their attractive looks?
• Define the term “gender blindness.”
• Do school uniforms promote gender inequality?
• Bibiana Steinhaus: a female referee.
• Discuss how the battle of the sexes impacted society.
• Should men be entitled to more extended paternity leave ?
• Can religion ensure equality?
• How do stereotypes against women decrease their chances of getting hired?
• Why do millions of women still have to choose between having a family or a career?
• Explain the gender dynamics in development.
• Should men and women play and compete in mixed sports teams?
• What do beauty pageants teach girls?
• Debate the importance of LGBT studies.
• What causes gender dysphoria?
• Do blockbuster films have the responsibility to advocate for equality?
• Does society need gender roles to function properly?
• What makes same-sex marriage a controversial topic in many countries?
• Examine adoption laws for gay couples.
• Compare gender-based violence in the UK vs. Iran.

🧔🏿 Social Topics for Essays on Racism

Slavery is abolished everywhere in the world. Still, it didn’t put an end to racism. There’s a lot of racial bias fueled by insecurity and ignorance. Because of this, ethnic minorities rarely enjoy equal opportunities. An essay on racism can raise awareness of the problem by shedding light on racial injustice.

• How has racism changed over the past hundred years?
• Queer of color: history and theory.
• Who were the Khmer Rouge ?
• Trace the development of anti-discrimination laws in your country.
• What caused populist groups to gain popularity in recent years?
• Did Donald Trump’s presidency increase racism towards Latin Americans?
• What socio-economic issues do African American families face?
• Is there a connection between racism and social progress?
• Would there be no racism without colonialism?
• Discuss subtle forms of everyday racism.
• Should women in teaching positions be allowed to wear hijabs ?
• Nelson Mandela and the fight against apartheid .
• What makes people scared of minorities?
• Who benefits from structural racism?
• Find out how racism manifests itself in your native language.
• Compare the types of social segmentation.
• Is the use of the n-word in hip hop empowering?
• How did imperialism impact Okonkwo’s life in Things Fall Apart ?
• In which areas of life are black Americans institutionally disadvantaged?
• Is it appropriate for white people to wear hoop earrings?
• The best ways to educate children about race.
• How does cultural appropriation become harmful?
• Racial prejudice in the movie industry.

• Your position on companies renaming well-known brands to avoid claims of racism.
• Discuss the problem of racism at institutional and interactional levels.
• Will racism ever end?
• Is “All lives matter” a racist statement?
• How does environmental racism affect the living conditions of minorities?
• Investigate the historical persecution of the Romani people.
• What makes people racist nowadays?
• The internet’s contribution to alleviating racism.
• Cultivation of racism in the American society.
• How much of a problem is reverse discrimination?
• Trace the history of lynching and mob violence against blacks in the American South.
• Who was Leo Frank?
• How does discrimination differ in rich vs. developing countries?
• Racism as a barrier to educational opportunities.
• Does social media help fight racist bias?
• How to responsibly handle classic movies and literature with racial prejudices.
• What constitutes a healthy national identity?
• How does modern television portray minorities?
• Does your country’s healthcare system disadvantage minorities?
• Investigate what happens to the Rohingya people in Malaysia.
• Is antisemitism still a problem in your country?
• Does nationalism always lead to racism?

✈️ Social Awareness Topics on Migration & Refugees

Migration can have a beneficial effect on a host country’s economy. For instance, migrants can provide vital additional workforce. But an overflow of newcomers can also lead to problems. Most notably, it affects a nations’ cultural and social landscapes. “How should we deal with refugees?” is one of the most challenging political questions today.

Receive a plagiarism-free paper tailored to your instructions. Cut 15% off your first order!

• How has migration changed over the past 20 years?
• Mexican immigration as a political controversy.
• Why do migrants from the Middle East face more prejudice than those from Central Europe?
• Describe the types of events that can cause major forced displacement .
• How should governments plan for migration?
• Why do many people in Europe have a negative attitude towards refugees?
• Why are foreign workers important to every nation’s economy?
• Effective ways to integrate displaced people.
• Critique Arizona’s new immigration laws.
• Have refugee camps ever been a solution to the problem?
• What drives people to immigrate illegally ?
• Should the US’ sanctuary cities be dissolved?
• Describe the notion of ecological migration.
• Should Europe take in more refugees?
• Compare resettlement models in Canada vs. Australia.
• What’s the difference between expats and migrants?
• What factors make illegal immigration undesirable?
• Has the public perception of migrants changed over the past years?
• How important is it that immigrants speak their host country’s language?
• What does social integration ideally consist of?
• Discuss Chinese settlement patterns in America.
• The advantages of dropping visa restrictions.
• How did 9/11 affect the public’s perception of the global movement?
• Is it morally right to marry someone just for their passport?
• Do illegal immigrants negatively impact their host country’s society?
• Does migration cause destabilization?
• What does the claim “no one is illegal” advocate?
• How does the American green card lottery work?
• Should a child born in a foreign country automatically receive citizenship?
• American society wouldn’t exist without immigration. Why is it still so hostile towards foreigners?
• Explore the link between global movement and the spread of diseases.
• Should the government use taxpayer money to upskill refugees ?
• Immigrants in Toronto: social and economic challenges.
• Can expats from a distinct cultural background ever integrate into a country that doesn’t share their norms?
• Discuss the importance of diversity to society.
• Is there a connection between immigration rates and crime?
• Should expats be eligible for welfare programs ?
• Where’s the line between cultural appropriation and integration?
• Can binational relationships work?
• How do you become a stateless person?
• What rights do asylum seekers have in your country?
• Is immigration from developing countries a threat to wealthier nations?
• Explore moral panics associated with other ethnicities.
• What makes Europe attractive to expats?
• Describe the common prejudices refugees have to face in Australia.

⚖️ Social Justice Essay Topics on Human Rights

You probably agree that every human deserves access to fundamental rights. Unfortunately, these are continually under threat. And it doesn’t always happen far away from you. Women, the LGBT community, and many others fight for their rights every single day.

• Are limitations of human rights during crises justified?
• Should we strive to achieve the same rights globally?
• Is male circumcision shortly after birth a violation of human rights?
• How do you prevent low-income families from sending their children to work?
• Capital punishment vs. the right to live.
• Can dictatorships ensure human rights ?

• Is using sensitive language incriminating our freedom of speech?
• Describe the achievements of Amnesty International.
• Should Europe stop business interactions with countries that violate human rights ?
• Examine effective ways to combat food shortages in the Global South.
• How can governments secure freedom of speech ?
• Should access to the internet be included as a fundamental human right?
• Are restrictive laws concerning hijabs violating religious freedom?
• Charlie Hebdo and its Muhammad cartoons: did they go too far?
• When does satire become harmful?
• Examine how human rights are treated in the pornography industry.
• Why are LGBT people around the world not granted the same rights as everyone else?
• Balancing labor conditions and demand: human rights in the economy.
• Who protects stateless persons?
• What has changed since the first declaration of human rights?
• How was slavery justified back in the day?
• Why do women in many countries still not have the same rights as men?
• The Handmaid’s Tale : how is the society in Gilead structured?
• Discuss how vital the rights to freedom of thought and expression are.
• To which rights should prisoners have access to?
• Debate the fairness of the utilitarian approach.
• How do NGOs help to ensure human rights in Somalia?
• Human rights and the Bible : how does the church get away with violations?
• Define different perspectives on what constitutes freedom .
• What are the most significant human rights issues today?
• Ethics and the media: exploiting personal tragedies for attention.
• Prisoners are humans, too: rights violations in Guantanamo.
• Is combating climate change a human rights issue?
• Are cruel traditions such as honor killings justified if they are socially accepted?
• How successful is the European Commission of Human Rights?
• Is the death penalty a justified measure nowadays?
• Should pets have the same rights as humans?
• Define the difference between civil and human rights.
• If there’s gay pride, why shouldn’t there be straight pride?
• Unequal privilege: legal, religious, and social factors.
• What would happen if education were free and accessible to everyone?
• State terrorism vs. critical terrorism.
• Did globalization make us freer?
• Is the wellbeing of the majority more important than the wellbeing of a minority?
• When, if ever, should men and women have different rights?

🗽 Current Social Issues Topics in America

With its variety of races and cultures, America faces many social issues. Its deeply divided political parties add more fuel to the fire. African American rights and police brutality are some of the most pressing issues in the US today.

• Consequences of fortifying the American-Mexican border wall.
• Should illegal immigrants always be deported when found?
• Is the democratic system in the US in need of reform?
• What are the social causes of obesity in the USA?
• Negative side effects of the war on drugs .
• How important is bipartisan cooperation?
• What difference does it make if Russia meddled in the 2016 elections?
• Police brutality: reasons and countermeasures.
• Discuss the importance of reducing medical costs.
• Racism and the police: is it an institutional problem?
• What are the strictest cultural taboos in American society?
• Are there enough women in American leadership positions?
• Is sexism a significant problem in the States?
• Describe the consequences of voter fraud.
• Should schools teach students to be more patriotic ?
• Discuss prescription drug abuse in America.
• College student debt: is it a fair price to pay for a good education?
• Will police presence in schools help curb violence?
• What drugs should be legalized vs. remain illegal?
• Debate the quality of political education in your state.
• Is fake news a severe problem?
• Financial literacy as a compulsory subject in high school.
• How do you destigmatize taboo topics in society?
• Why do conversations about periods make people feel uncomfortable?
• Social causes of eating disorders in adults.
• Discuss how various religions can live together peacefully.
• Describe the NIMBY phenomenon.
• What are the benefits and limitations of needle exchange programs?
• Find reasons why peaceful protests turn into violent riots.
• Are students in the US nowadays under too much stress ?
• What are the harmful effects of urban sprawl ?
• Can your vote make a difference?
• Do American schools need to offer better sex education classes?
• What makes people believe the Earth is flat?
• Why do conspiracy theories spread so quickly nowadays?
• Traffic in California: reasons to invest in public transport.
• Are charter schools better than public schools?
• Compare the most prominent social movements currently active in America.
• The legacy of Occupy Wall Street.
• Describe the pros and cons of the Green New Deal.
• How successful is special education in the US?
• What causes gentrification in American cities?
• Is immigration a strain on the American job market?
• Tackle the problem of prison overcrowding.
• Investigate the effects of ableism in the States.

That’s all we’ve got for you. We hope this article was helpful. Good luck with your essay writing!

You might also be interested in:

• 512 Research Topics on HumSS (Humanities & Social Sciences)
• 147 Social Studies Topics for Your Research Project
• 480 Sociology Questions & Topics with Bonus Tips
• 560 Unique Controversial Topics & Tips for a Great Essay
• 193 Interesting Proposal Essay Topics and Ideas
• 197 Motivational & Inspirational Essay Topics
• 165 Bullying Research Topics: Qualitative & Quantitative 

🔍 References

• Lifestyles & Social Issues: Encyclopedia Britannica
• Controversial/Contemporary Issues: How to Write a Research Paper: Campbell University
• 3 Insights Into Writing about Social Issues: Jane Friedman
• Key Issues: eSafety Commissioner
• Top 10 Most Common Health Issues: University of Rochester Medical Center
• Top 10 Most Important Environmental Issues: Iberdrola.com
• War: Social Problems: University of Minnesota
• Violence: a Global Public Health Problem: WHO
• What Are the Biggest Problems Women Face Today?: Politico Magazine
• Issues: National Center for Transgender Equality
• List of Issues about Racism: The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights
• Potential implications of Increasing Significance of Migration: EU
• The Biggest Issues Facing Migrants Today — and What We Can Do to Solve Them: World Economic Forum
• How Americans See Major National Issues: Pew Research Center
• Social Issues and Human Rights: United Nations Environment
• Crime & Criminal Justice: Brookings
• Social Problems: Oxford Academic Press
• Criminal Justice: ProPublica
• Structural Racism in America: Urban Institute
• Racism and Health: American Public Health Association
• Share to Facebook
• Share to Twitter
• Share to LinkedIn
• Share to email

There are many ways to define popular culture. Here’s one of them: pop culture includes mainstream preferences in society within a specific time frame. It covers fashion, music, language, and even food. Pop culture is always evolving, engaging in new trends, and leaving the old ones behind.

Plates break when you drop them. Glasses help you see better. Have you ever wondered why? Physics has the answer. It studies the observable as well as invisible aspects of nature. An essential part of this is examining the structure and interactions of matter.

Biology is often called the science of life. From bacteria to whales, biologists study all kinds of organisms. Have you ever wondered why bees dance? Or how can chickens be the closest modern relatives to dinosaurs? The buzzing world is full of complex wonders like these. That’s why it’s so...

Chemistry studies matter and what it’s made of. It tells us how substances change and what properties they have. Chemistry seeks to answer questions such as: What is the Universe made of? How do elements react with each other? Read our article to dive deeper into this intricate subject. What...

Culture is a set of knowledge, behaviors, and beliefs shared by a group of people. You would probably agree that it’s an integral part of humanity. It’s no wonder that students are often assigned to write about it. That’s why we came up with a list of interesting and creative...

The Earth is a complex system. To understand it, geologists examine the lithosphere and its layers. They trace our planet’s history by using physical and chemical methods. At the same time, geographers observe environmental patterns. They also focus on the interaction between humans and nature. Keep reading to find out...

Mathematics is the science of numbers and shapes. Writing about it can give you a fresh perspective and help to clarify difficult concepts. You can even use mathematical writing as a tool in problem-solving. In this article, you will find plenty of interesting math topics. Besides, you will learn about...

Cause and effect essays examine how an event happened and what consequences it had. Gaining weight after eating lots of fast food is an example of a cause-and-effect relationship. Possible topics cover a variety of subjects ranging from mental health to history and politics. This article gives you an outline...

An analysis essay aims to break down the subject in order to understand it. You can choose to analyze a text, a process, or an idea. This article will help you write a great essay! Selecting an interesting topic makes writing a lot easier. We’ve prepared a list of excellent...

Environment affects us all, whether we want it or not. Political leaders and students alike discuss ways to tackle environmental topics & issues. Some might argue about the role humans play in all this. The fact remains that our environment is a delicate matter. That’s why we must educate ourselves...

Our code of ethics is derived from what we think is right or wrong. On top of that, we have to agree to the moral standards established by the society we live in. Conventional norms generally label theft, murder, or harassment as bad. However, there are many influences that impact...

A definition explains the meaning of a term or a concept. In a dictionary, you’ll find a definition in a single sentence. A definition paper, however, encompasses several paragraphs. Such an essay, amongst other things, can include personal experience and examples. To write a successful definition paper, you need to...

Cooll! IT WILL HELP ME IN MY PROJECT!!

Cooll! Thanks for the information 🙂

this is epic

This is so informative… Thanx for it

149 Social Issues Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

🏆 best social issues topic ideas & essay examples, 👍 good essay topics on social issues, ⭐ simple & easy social issues essay titles, 💡 interesting topics to write about social issues, ❓ social issues questions examples.

• Youth Unemployment as a Social Issue Different factors have led to the high levels of youth unemployment, with the most widely studied of them being the skills that are available to the unemployed youths.
• Social Issues: Choosing a Life Partner This process involves the identification of a friend to determine if potential partners share some aspects in life before the friendship can grow to a relationship and if the relationship works for the partners, it […] We will write a custom essay specifically for you by our professional experts 808 writers online Learn More
• Social Issues in the “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” by Tennessee William The struggle is betwixt his great affection for his boy and his finding the facts, and the mindset of his miserable upbringing by which the dad was normally a removed and an unreachable figure.
• Social Issues in “Frankenstein” Film Frankenstein’s monster represents the mangled and depressed soldiers returning from the war only to find an economy in crisis, given that the Great Depression was in the offing after the war.
• Social Issues in “Gattaca” by Andrew Niccoland In the movie, another family rivalry is witnessed in the case where Vincent was the main suspect in the killing of an administrator; and when Anton offered to help, Vincent asked him to stay away […]
• Tragic Love and Social Issues in Giovanni Boccaccio’s Decameron In that regard, such distinction led to that love relationships were held in secret, and considering the origins of the lovers in both tales, it can be stated that the finale of these love stories […]
• Social Issues Affecting Women Women and family Stability/Disintegration The role of women in family stability and disintegration is another social issue affecting women in society. Women are considered as the core managers of stability and security in the family.
• Social Issues in the Film “Grease” In the first instance, when Danny and Sandy meet for the first time in the school, Danny is compelled to play the bad boy character the group is identified with.
• Homelessness as a Global Social Issue In the US, homelessness is on the increase because of economic melt- down and foreclosures. Moreover, differences in perception of homelessness by liberal and conservative on homeless have increased homelessness in the US.
• Social Issues in “Be Right Back” Episode of “Black Mirror” Series In one of the scenes of the episodes, in her conversation with the copy of Ash, she says that the android does not have a history of its life; it is just an image without […]
• Homelessness as a Social Issue Research further indicates that the group is at a high risk of suffering from addiction in an effort to contain stress and ignominy associated with homelessness.
• Anthropology in Solving Global Social Issues Artists were moving in the same direction, which excluded the possibility to understand and assess other examples of the art of other nations.
• Social Issues of Families in Poverty With the tightened budget, parents of the families living in poverty struggle to make ends meet, and in the course of their struggles, they experience many stresses and depressions.
• What Defines Us as Human? – Social Issues Although the particular features of the people’s skeletal structure and other physical qualities cannot be discussed as determining to speak about persons as human, it is important to focus on differences in the mental and […]
• Social Issues in the “Thelma and Louise” Movie The film focuses on the scenes and events that show the experience of females. In other words, “Thelma and Louise” ruined the stereotypical representation of women, which was revolutionary for that time.
• Social Issues: Arranged Marriages Even though research has shown that some arranged marriages result in loving and stable relationships, I think it is important to give individuals the freedom to choose their partners and decide whether they are prepared […]
• Social Issues: Leisure Lifestyle Erickson confirmed through research that leisure activities originate from the mind, and an individual is motivated to engage in it whenever he or she feels that it would be beneficial.
• Social Issues; Crime and Poverty in Camden This has threatened the social security and peaceful coexistence of the people in the community. The larger the differences between the poor and the rich, the high are the chances of crime.
• Social Issues in Shakespeare’s “The Tragedy of Othello” The social environment of England at the end of the sixteenth and the beginning of the seventeenth century was characterized by great attention to social class, citizens’ jobs, and their reputation.
• Communist Manifesto, Time and Social Issues The primary issue of the manifesto is the vagaries in which the bourgeoisie subject and subjugate the proletariat, all in the struggle for private property.
• Social Issues in First-World Nations The third social issue that affects a large number of first-world countries is the quality and accessibility of healthcare. However, it is possible to make a gradual positive change through the cooperation of governments and […]
• Moral, Ethical, and Social Issues However, the spectrum of their research is fundamentally different, and in the case of the Press, it concerns dirty work and society’s response to it.
• Social Issues: Smartphones’ Positive Impacts In the past, it is expensive to make calls. In the past, it is not convenient to make calls using payphones.
• Social Issues: Charitable Donations These factors include awareness of the need to contribute, solicitation, selflessness, cost of the benefit, status in the society, and personal values.
• Philosophy and Perspective of Social Issues In addition, the critical thinking method can also be used to analyze the belief that the government is the cause of social issues. Philosophy is a discipline that can help us to think more critically […]
• Social Issues: Freak Shows The shows gave audiences something they craved, and the audiences gladly paid the organizers for putting up the shows. The second reason for the popularity of freak shows is the financial returns associated with the […]
• Education Establishments’ Role Regarding Social Issues However, the universal nature of these issues and their broad influence create an environment in which members of education establishments begin to question the extent of their involvement in them.
• Social Issues Related to Detroit’s Demographics: The Urban Crisis This refutes the widespread knowledge that suggests racial divides and social initiatives in the 1960s were the cause of the urban decline.
• Journal Editors’ Role Regarding Social Justice Issues Journal editors can involve professionals from social justice forums such as civil rights lawyers in their journals as well as reduce the complexity of the presentation of social justice article contents.
• Social Issue Analysis: The Trauma Lens of Police Violence It is the most visible manifestation of the struggle for justice, and the police are usually expected to support the victims of injustice.
• The Impact of Social Issues on the Development of Adolescence For example, boys have high esteem when they experience changes in their voices, while girls may feel shy due to the growth of their chest region.
• Tobacco as a Social Injustice Issue African Americans are a minority population in the U.S.singled out to endure the health challenges related to tobacco use hence a social injustice.
• Ageism and Financial Insecurity as Social Issues The two main social issues impacting the rights of older individuals are ageism and financial insecurity. Many older people are capable and eager to work beyond the standard set, but the chances are limited.
• The Review of Social Issues Film One of the most important concerns for my future life is the ability to raise and care for children properly. The issue of elderly domestic abuse is considered to be one of the most serious […]
• Race as a Social Construct: Issues of Barriers Since it occurs in the conditions of scarcity of resources essential for the survival of citizens, the varying degree of access to them can be determined on the basis of racial background.
• Social Issues in the “In Plain Sight” Art Project The artists from the In Plain Sight project are united by the goal of raising public awareness about causes such as immigrant detention and the US culture of incarceration.
• Immigration: Social Issue Feeling Analysis From the global perspective, the most influencing countries in the world use visa and other conditions of entering the country as a migration regulating tool.
• International Social Welfare Issue Analysis That is why it is very important for social workers and all socially conscious people to promote the ideas of social welfare and make people understand why it matters. To conclude, the issue of social […]
• Modern Healthcare Aspects in the United States: Managing Historical and Social Issues Today, the system is trying to manage various issues such as malnutrition among older adults that is increasing, the role of nurses and the importance of their diversity, and the growing costs of the services.
• Whistleblowing as a Social Issue in the Workplace The only hindrance to whistleblowing in society or the public is the authenticity of the information and how it will be received generally.
• Management of Obesity and Social Issues That Emerge With Its Development The article by Omole focuses on recent shift in the management of obesity and the social issues that emerge with its development, namely, the culture of fat-shaming, by considering some of the alternatives toward evaluating […]
• Key Social Issues Affecting Criminal Justice Professionals The absence of a decline in this percentage suggests that the criminal justice system has not been effective in addressing this issue. The criminal justice system has failed to decrease crime rates due to the […]
• Police Brutality: Social Issue This paper explores the issue of police brutality and seeks to shed light on the perceptions of the public, especially the black minority.
• Domestic Terrorism: Burning Social Issue In my opinion, people could be driven by some factors or they could be conditioned throughout their lives to engage in domestic terrorism. They may also say that they feel unrecognized in the management of […]
• Global Digital Divide as a Social Issue That is, if societies around the globe are able to bridge the gap between those who have and those who do not in relation to information technology, then the development problems would be minimized at […]
• J.A. McPherson and G.G. Marquez Novel’s: Urgent Social Issues The black waiter Doc and the Colonel are forced to live in a cruel world and adapt to the dominant system.
• Should Drugs Be a Health, Social Issue or a Legal, Criminal Issue? They are classified depending on the mode of action and the response induced in the body. In order to get information from the participants the following questions will be asked: What drug do you use?
• Professors and Their Views on Political or Social Issues in the Classroom He analyzes the statement issued by the American Association of University Professors’ Committee A on Academic Freedom and Tenure, “Freedom in the Classroom,” which he says seems to defend professors against attacks by the right […]
• Social Issues in Kuwait: Immigration Workforce Among the frequently highlighted issues in the country, one is the low productivity among the local workforce due to the high influence of favoritism and nepotism in promotions and merits.
• S. Hay’s and Feagin’s Works on Social Issues The work of the Sharon Hay’s “Flat Broke with Children” was assembled in a milieu characterised by the decline of the widely hailed welfare reform policies which had seen the diminishing of welfare rolls from […]
• Should Professors Be Allowed to Advocate Their Views on Political or Social Issues in the Classroom? In the recent past, professors have been accused of several faults, and it was because of these faults that it was deemed necessary to put a cap on the extent to which professors can excise […]
• Marriage and Family Problems as Social Issues Sociology as a discipline has an extremely wide range of interests and it is next to impossible even to enumerate them, however the issue that has always been of the utmost importance for the sociological […]
• Social Stratification Issues Solving If that is not the case, we meet different forms of institutional discrimination which can take different forms such as discrimination of children, gender discrimination, race and class discrimination.
• Social Issues in Business I see housing as business and as quoted “business involves the exchange of services for money, making money, and dealing with other people’s needs and demands” in the book ‘A better way to think about […]
• Social Inequality Issue Analysis Thesis Social inequality is a system and systematic worked as the framework of society and its functionality. What is acknowledged to be a hierarchical social structure are essentially confined to the primary units of economic […]
• Gender Pay Gap as a Multifaceted Social Issue The gender pay gap is defined as the average gross hourly earnings of men and women who are working. Secondly, political and economic causes and outcomes of the issue have to be considered.
• Identity and Social Class Issue A social class provides the child with a sense of identity, a set of values, and the motivational base for his later actions, while the school provides him with the knowledge and skills necessary to […]
• Domestic Violence as a Social Issue It is one of the main factors which stimulate the study’s conduction, and among the rest, one can also mention the number of unexplored violence questions yet to be answered.
• Masculinity as a Social Norms Issue However, the advancements that occurred with the rise of the LGBT movement and the empowerment of women now challenge established ideas.
• Pollution as a Social Issue and Mass Media’s Role The reason why plastic pollution gained traction only during the 21st century is directly connected to the invention of the Internet and the technological advances in electronics.
• Community Psychology in Addressing Social Issues Based on the lecture, we learned about the disparity between the rich and the poor, a domain that is associated with marginalization and stigmatization.
• Social Issues in Education: Applying Theory In the year 2000, the Ministry of Education banned any form of corporal punishment in all schools in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
• Social Issues of the Immigration Journal The authors studied the impacts of multiculturalism of the period 1980s to 1990s on institutional forms of immigrants in the Netherlands.
• Social Issues in Karl Marx’s Letter to John Mayer In your letter, it seems that those in power do not listen to you and your generation. This is one sure way of attaining power that is vital for you and your generation to change […]
• Social Issues in McMinden, Fictional Town The concepts of social stratification, division of labor, and social distance discussed in the essay appear to be connected by cause-and-effect relation.
• Socialist vs. Capitalist Approach to Social Issues Capitalism also refers to a system where the economy is independent of the state. In a Socialist economy, the intellectual property belongs to the government.
• Policy Changes and Social Issues The second step within the model is associated with the political stream, in which the previously identified problem is reviewed between communities of policy experts who possess knowledge of the problem.
• Rhetoric: Social Issues’ Influences on US Children Such an approach does not allow the readers to be 100% sure that this information is true to life and makes the statement rather weak.
• Economic and Social Issues in Japan The events of March 11 contributed to widespread changes in the Japanese society and government. In the midst of the March 11 disaster, a political reformation occurred.
• Social Issues in “Born into Brothels” Film It is possible to apply the feminist theory to consider a family featured in the film. In Shanti’s family, this is also the case, and her mother is afraid of her daughter’s future as the […]
• Alcoholism as a Social Issue and Its Effect on Families Such children tend to think that they are the causes of the problem, which would end up affecting them psychologically. Since children are not helped to get out of the horrifying scenarios, they end up […]
• Workplace Gender Bias: Social Injustice Issues Such situations make companies to classify its workforce based on the class systems17 that involve a consideration of the individual’s achievement and performance at the workplace.
• Social Issues in “Too Young to Wed” by Cynthia Gorney In the case of 10-year-old Ayesha who was married off to a 50-year old, the women in the family tried to stop the marriage.
• The Social Cost Issue The concept of “social cost” is applied in the economic analysis and estimation of most impacts. The writer observes the economic implications of such impacts on the social realm.
• Public Policies Addressing Social Issues in the USA The best form of policy that the US government uses to control lead poisoning in children is the increased awareness to prevent the use of lead in household paints.
• Social Issues in Self Help in Hard Times by Zinn The following are the main points from the chapter 15 of the Self Help in Hard Times book that were determined as Zinn’s main points of interest: The first main point of Zinn in this […]
• Social Issues in the “Leaving the Streets: Stories of Canadian Youth” The authors of the book are inclined to support the idea that to exit the street life successfully, the street youth should become oriented to the principles of the street disengagement and to breaking all […]
• Natural Disasters and Global Social Issues The hurricane led to a major shift in the social arrangement of the populations in the worst affected areas. This led to a significant loss of jobs in the affected areas.
• US Public Policies Social Issues In view of this, the article is useful since it provides readers with brief and structured information regarding the differences that The Affordable Care Act makes.
• Social Issues of Genital Cosmetic Surgery for Women The labia minora is the main target, and it aims at reducing the size of these lips to avoid protruding beyond the labia majora.
• Single Mothers’ Social Issues The little consideration given to single women living in poverty distorts the women and their families. The single mothers who have a heavy burden of caring for their children need help from the government.
• Intercollegiate Sports: Social and Cultural Issues A primary goal of this essay is to evaluate the impact of social and cultural issues on the ability to handle stress in the future while being a contestant of one of the intercollegiate sports.
• Social Issue of Sexual Assault: Definition and Forms Sometimes it’s not only the ordinary people that are in the dark, even the most important figures that are seen as the role models to the society happen to be in the dark about some […]
• Social Issues: Monogamy in Our Life This sort of relations is considered to be the only legal type of bond in the majority of states all over the world.
• Social Issues: Abortions Prohibition With this in mind, it is possible to say that the question of abortion is a very keen issue which sets the table for a great number of different debates. However, it is said that […]
• Social Issues: Levels of Conversation Impact The results of a conversation depending on the levels of communication between the parties that are involved. In this level of conversation, a self-fulfilling relationship may be developed particularly if the people involved in the […]
• Social Issues: Equity Among the African Demographics Combined with the problem of poverty and lack of educational resources, it takes a truly monstrous scale, affecting not only the lives of women in a number of regions of Africa, but also the entire […]
• Social Issues: Science Versus Indigenous Ways of Living The opinion of science seems to have become the only credible source of knowledge in a contemporary world, and for a good reason with the recent technological breakthrough and the advent of the era of […]
• Social Issues: “A critical Mess” by Scott Rowan In his argument, Rowan, the president of Sherpa Multimedia, explains the pains and frustrations that the Chicago community undergoes when the cyclists take to the streets demonstrating their riding skills and claiming that it is […]
• Social Issues: Child Observation in Khalifa Park It was noticed that there was a marked difference in the games boys and girls play and their reactions to winning and losing the games.
• Social Issues: Urban Livability and Sustainability In achieving this choice in the United States, for instance, the Federal and State governments should allocate resources according to the development index of the cities in the continent.
• Social Issues: Non-Mainstream Body Modification The rise of many art styles and body modifiers, the increase in tattoo parlors dealing in non-mainstream art, and the emergence of websites, books, and magazines containing body art practices led to the rise of […]
• Social Issues: Ethnicity-based Jury Nullification This was because most of the jurists were whites, and they believed that whites had the freedom to treat other races the way they pleased.
• Social Issues: Hollywood Effects on Suburban Families The actions of the people who lived in the suburbs were largely influenced by the media. On the other hand, the suburban male was the provider and the protector of the house.
• The Discussion of WikiLeaks as a Social Issue The circulation of information on the Internet with the help of the media is the characteristic feature of the developing globalization.
• Social Issues: Demographic Transition Definition Phase two is considered to be the foundation of demographic transition, where there is a quick decrease in the mortality rate.
• Social Issues: Corporal Punishment To begin with, people that support corporal punishment say they do so because they believe that a child needs spanking to learn a discipline.
• Social Issues: Teen Pregnancy Lastly, there are no good role models to teach children the importance of abstinence, and this has led them to believe that they should engage in premarital sex to become famous.
• Social Issues: Police Protection of the Ku Klux Klan The situation when the police protected the Ku Klux Klan while gassing and arresting the demonstrators can seem to be unexpected and controversial because people are often inclined to associate the Ku Klux Klan with […]
• Social Issues: Rites and Ceremonies in People Life The life of a person as the member of the group or community is associated with definite rites and ceremonies which are followed to respond to the traditions, and cultural values developed during the centuries […]
• Social Issues: The Art of Living in Solitude The status of a single person is part and parcel of the modern reality for an increasingly large number of people and at the same time the major cause for psychological and social problems for […]
• Social Issues of Human Behavior: Nature and Nurture On the other hand, the nurture view asserts that behaviors are developed and persist according to the upbringing and the environment the individual grows up in.
• Social Issues: Appropriateness of Affirmative Action Affirmative action in the sphere of education can be discussed as the appropriate approach to evaluate the admissions of college students because it can guarantee the equal access to the limited educational resources for students […]
• Social Issues: Gentrification in Harlem Thus, gentrification in Harlem during the period of 2000-2012 is characterized by changes in the community’s demographics, household income, and economy connected with the arrival of wealthier residents, increased investment, promoted economic and business activities, […]
• Social Issues: How Identities are Constructed? In modern times, many people identify themselves with their countries of birth, and this makes them eligible for citizenship rights and other social and economic privileges that are offered by their countries.
• Social Issues: Game Theory in Daily Life In effect, game theory can be said to be a basis for making rational decisions whereby the given decisions create impacts on the decision making the ability of other entities in the group, while also […]
• Social Issues: Common Sense and Intuition One of the most noteworthy ideas in the book was the suggestion that, in as much as people try to act or say otherwise, from a subconscious point of view, the majority is actually practicing […]
• Social Issues: Gender Segregation The Code recognizes the “inherent dignity and worth of every person and to provide for equal rights and opportunities without discrimination”.
• Social Issues in the Book “The Academic Illusion” by Ken Robinson In the introductory part of the article, the author focuses on how intelligence is measured. In the last part of the article, the author persuades human beings to change how they perceive education.
• Social Issues: Property Ownership White views nature from a different standpoint to Forster’s; while he appreciates nature and the serenity of the place, Forster view of his wood is in terms of monetary value.
• Social Issues: Alcoholism as a Mode of Addiction Every single case of alcoholic dependence described in the lecture is perfectly consistent with the existing model, each piece of evidence falling into its place and, therefore, allowing the audience to have an entire picture […]
• Social Issues: Challenges Facing Young Immigrants It is against this backdrop that this essay seeks to explore the challenges facing young immigrants in the United States and the proactive measures that can be taken to rescue this vulnerable group in transiting […]
• Social Issues: the Freak Shows Popularity This appetite is what drives freak show organizers to find persons with severe deformities to satisfy the curiosity of the public.
• Social Issues: Muslim Immigrants in the UK Since the study aims at exploring Muslim immigrants in the UK, it will focus on the struggles of Muslim immigrants in the UK, the policies the UK government uses towards Muslim immigrants, and terrorism challenges […]
• Immigration as Social Issue in Australia The research will explore the element of trans-nationalism that is likely to be the case with most of these immigrants and its impacts on their continued stay in Australia.
• Native Americans: Social Issue In addition, the references of the natives by the mainstream society have led to the under development and have prevented the evolution of the Indian Americans.
• Sufficient Justifications of the Legitimacy of Religious Positions on Social Issues Beale points towards the spiritual, historical and divine origins of the bible and utilizes this as the reinforcing factors behind his belief in the bible’s inerrancy and infallibility.
• Social Issue: The Death of the Whitney Houston In addition to giving a precise of the aforementioned story, the next discussion also elaborates the story by relating it to sociological imagination and the concept of social perspectives.
• Social Issue: Concepts of Sociological Imagination and Sociological Perspectives Sociology is a subject that offers insight into behavior of individuals and groups of people in a society and its scope covers established relationships between people in a society, the effects of such relationships on […]
• White Privilege Social Issue Due to subtle nature of the racism in the modern society, the whites perceive it as just a social factor that differentiate people into privileged and unprivileged classes in the society.
• Social and Political Issues The military has been used by the corporations and the wealthy individuals to protect the interests of the nation, which are actually the interests of the corporations and the wealthy.
• Social Issues in the “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee The phrase ‘to kill a mocking bird’ stands out as a metaphor in the book To kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee.
• Gandhi’s contribution towards contemporary social issues Gandhi appreciates the existence of difference in the name of God amongst the Muslims, Hindus and Christians. In order for the concept of non-violence to be applicable, Gandhi is of the opinion that it is […]
• Why Is It Important to Address Social Issues in the Classroom?
• What Is a Social Issue Example?
• What Are the Basic Social Issues?
• What Is the Biggest Issue in the World Today?
• Is Poverty a Social Issue?
• Is Depression a Social Issue?
• How Many Social Issues Are There?
• Is Stress a Social Problem?
• Is Mental Illness a Social Issue?
• Is Social Anxiety a Social Issue?
• What Are the Four Types of Social Problems?
• What Is an Interesting Social Issue?
• How Do You Talk About Social Issues?
• Why Do We Need to Learn Social Issues?
• What Is the Most Common Social Issue?
• How Does Social Issues Affect Society?
• What Social Issues Are Not Talked About?
• What Are the Main Causes of Social Issues?
• Is Mental Health a Social Issue?
• What Is the Conclusion of Social Issues?
• What Are the Current Social Issue?
• How Do Social Issues Affect Students?
• How Do Social Issues Affect Development?
• What Will Happen if the Social Issues Are Not Controlled on Time?
• Why Are Social Issues Difficult?
• Why Should Social Issues Be Solved Socially?
• Chicago (A-D)
• Chicago (N-B)

IvyPanda. (2024, February 29). 149 Social Issues Essay Topic Ideas & Examples. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/social-issues-essay-topics/

"149 Social Issues Essay Topic Ideas & Examples." IvyPanda , 29 Feb. 2024, ivypanda.com/essays/topic/social-issues-essay-topics/.

IvyPanda . (2024) '149 Social Issues Essay Topic Ideas & Examples'. 29 February.

IvyPanda . 2024. "149 Social Issues Essay Topic Ideas & Examples." February 29, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/social-issues-essay-topics/.

1. IvyPanda . "149 Social Issues Essay Topic Ideas & Examples." February 29, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/social-issues-essay-topics/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "149 Social Issues Essay Topic Ideas & Examples." February 29, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/social-issues-essay-topics/.

• Inequality Titles
• Child Abuse Essay Topics
• Poverty Essay Titles
• Unemployment Essay Topics
• Corruption Ideas
• Gender Discrimination Research Topics
• Abortion Paper Topics
• Bullying Research Topics
• Censorship Essay Ideas
• Transgender Paper Topics
• Illegal Immigration Topics
• LGBT Essay Topics
• Suicide Topics
• Gun Control Titles
• Crime Ideas

189+ Best Social Science Research Paper Topics For Students

• Post author By Pooja Barman
• October 23, 2023

Social Science Research Paper Topics can be intriguing, insightful, and engaging, offering students an opportunity to explore a wide range of subjects that impact our society. Are you looking for the most interesting and good topics for a sociology research paper?

If yes, in this article, we will explore what Social Science Research Paper Topics are, provide guidance on how to choose and find them, and discuss why they are beneficial for students.

Additionally, we’ll present a comprehensive list of research paper topics across various social science fields.

Must Read: 125+ Most Creative Art Therapy Projects For Seniors

Table of Contents

What Are Social Science Research Paper Topics

Social Science Research Paper Topics are subjects, questions, or themes within the realm of social sciences that students investigate and write about in research papers. These topics cover a broad spectrum of disciplines, including sociology, psychology, anthropology, economics, political science, and more.

They aim to shed light on various aspects of human behavior, society, and culture, offering valuable insights and understanding.

How to Choose and Find Social Science Research Paper Topics

Selecting an engaging and relevant social science research paper topic is crucial for a successful paper. Here are some tips on how to choose and find the right topic:

1. Identify Your Interests

Start by considering your personal interests within the social sciences. What subjects or issues captivate your attention? Choosing a topic you’re passionate about will make the research and writing process more enjoyable.

2. Review Course Material

Reflect on what you’ve learned in your social science courses. Often, your coursework can spark ideas for research topics based on your studies and readings.

3. Current Events and Trends

Stay informed about current events and societal trends. These can provide inspiration for research topics that are both timely and relevant.

4. Consult with Professors

Seek guidance from your professors or advisors. They can offer suggestions and help refine your topic ideas.

5. Consider Feasibility

Ensure that your chosen topic is manageable within the scope of your assignment. You should be able to find sufficient research material and complete the project within the given timeframe.

6. Narrow or Broaden Your Focus

Depending on the assignment’s length and requirements, you may need to narrow down a broad topic or expand on a more specific aspect of a larger subject.

Now, let’s dive into a comprehensive list of Social Science Research Paper Topics across various fields:

Sociology Research Paper Topics

• Income Inequality and Social Mobility
• The Impact of Immigration on Host Societies
• Gender Roles and Stereotypes in Society
• Social Isolation in the Digital Age
• Social Media’s Influence on Political Movements
• Social Media and Self-esteem: Impacts on Mental Health
• Gun Control Policies and Their Effects on Society
• The Sociology of Protests and Social Movements
• The Role of Religion in Social Cohesion
• Cultural Appropriation and Its Social Implications

Psychology Research Paper Topics

• The Psychology of Resilience in Adversity
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Anxiety Disorders
• Effects of Childhood Trauma on Adult Mental Health
• Cross-Cultural Differences in Psychological Disorders
• The Psychology of Prejudice and Discrimination
• Positive Psychology and Well-being
• The Impact of Technology on Cognitive Abilities
• Child Development and Attachment Theory
• The Psychology of Prejudice in Online Communities
• Understanding and Addressing Teenage Depression

Anthropology Research Paper Topics

• Cultural Relativism and Ethical Dilemmas
• Indigenous Knowledge and Sustainability
• Human-Environment Interactions in Archaeology
• Anthropological Perspectives on Global Health
• Cultural Change and Adaptation in the Modern World
• Urban Anthropology and the Study of City Life
• Ethical Dilemmas in Anthropological Research
• Indigenous Knowledge and Sustainable Agriculture
• Anthropology of Food and Cultural Significance
• Archaeological Methods and Discoveries

Economics Research Paper Topics

• The Economic Impact of Natural Disasters
• Minimum Wage Policies and Their Consequences
• Behavioral Economics and Consumer Decision-Making
• The Gig Economy and Labor Market Trends
• The Economics of Healthcare and Insurance
• Global Economic Recession: Causes and Impacts
• Economic Consequences of the COVID-19 Pandemic
• Economic Inequality and Social Unrest
• Behavioral Economics and Decision-Making in Investment

Political Science Research Paper Topics

• International Diplomacy and Conflict Resolution
• Political Polarization and Its Effects on Governance
• Comparative Analysis of Political Systems
• Global Governance and International Organizations
• Political Propaganda and Media Manipulation
• Women in Politics: Representation and Challenges
• Political Extremism and Counterterrorism Policies
• The Role of Soft Power in International Relations
• Political Populism and Its Rise in Contemporary Politics
• Environmental Policies and Political Will

Social Science Education Research Paper Topics

• Inclusive Education and Special Needs Programs
• Homeschooling: Trends and Outcomes
• The Impact of Standardized Testing on Students
• Teacher Training and Professional Development
• Education Funding and Equity
• The Impact of Technology in Classroom Learning
• Education and Socioeconomic Achievement Gap
• Teacher-Student Relationships and Academic Performance
• School Bullying Prevention and Interventions

Environmental Social Science Research Paper Topics

• Urbanization and Urban Planning for Sustainability
• The Role of Wetlands in Ecosystem Health
• Environmental Ethics and Conservation
• Environmental Justice and Marginalized Communities
• Renewable Energy Policies and Implementation
• Ecotourism and Sustainable Tourism Practices
• Soil Erosion and Agricultural Sustainability
• Wildlife Conservation and Biodiversity Preservation
• Environmental Education and its Role in Society
• Sustainable Urban Planning and Green Cities

History-Social Science Research Paper Topics

• The Historical Roots of Colonialism
• Decolonization Movements in the 20th Century
• The Impact of the Cold War on Global Politics
• Historical Perspectives on Women’s Rights
• The Cultural Significance of Historical Artifacts
• The Impact of the Renaissance on Art and Culture
• Historical Perspectives on the American Civil Rights Movement
• The Decline of Ancient Civilizations: Causes and Lessons
• Historical Analysis of Ancient Trade Routes
• Impact of Colonialism on Indigenous Peoples

Social Work Research Paper Topics

• Social Work in Crisis Intervention and Trauma Counseling
• Substance Abuse Treatment in Vulnerable Populations
• Child Protective Services and Family Welfare
• The Role of Social Workers in Healthcare
• Human Rights and Social Justice Advocacy
• Trauma-Informed Social Work Practice
• Homelessness and Social Services Interventions
• Social Work in Correctional Facilities
• Child Welfare and Family Reunification
• Human Rights and Advocacy in Social Work

Communication Research Paper Topics

• Crisis Communication in the Social Media Age
• The Impact of Fake News on Public Perception
• Visual Communication and its Influence
• Cross-Cultural Communication Challenges
• The Rhetoric of Political Speeches
• Digital Media and the Future of Journalism
• Intercultural Communication in a Globalized World
• Communication Technology and its Impact on Relationships
• Visual Communication and its Persuasive Power
• The Art of Public Speaking and Rhetoric

Criminology Research Paper Topics

• Cybersecurity and the Role of Law Enforcement
• Criminal Behavior and Psychological Profiles
• Recidivism and Rehabilitation Programs
• White-Collar Crime and Corporate Responsibility
• Policing Strategies and Community Relations
• Juvenile Justice and Rehabilitation Programs
• Cybersecurity and Law Enforcement Challenges
• Criminal Profiling and Offender Characteristics
• Hate Crimes and their Motivations
• The Effectiveness of Restorative Justice Programs

Gender Studies Research Paper Topics

• Toxic Masculinity in Popular Culture
• The Impact of #MeToo Movement
• Intersections of Gender and Race
• Transgender Rights and Healthcare Access
• The Influence of Gender in Language and Media
• Women’s Reproductive Rights and Policies
• Men’s Mental Health and Societal Expectations
• Gendered Violence and Prevention Strategies
• Gender Roles in Fairy Tales and Popular Culture
• The Role of Gender in Language and Linguistics

Social Policy Research Paper Topics

• Drug Policy and Harm Reduction Strategies
• Universal Basic Income and Poverty Alleviation
• Maternity and Paternity Leave Policies
• Aging Population and Social Security
• Immigration and Asylum Policies
• Universal Basic Income and Economic Equality
• Housing Policies and Affordable Housing Initiatives
• Youth and Social Services Programs
• Immigration and Family Reunification Policies
• Disability Rights and Social Inclusion

Health Science Research Paper Topics

• Healthcare Disparities in Underserved Communities
• Nutrition and Public Health Interventions
• The Opioid Epidemic and Prescription Drug Abuse
• Mental Health Services in Rural Areas
• Aging and Long-Term Care Services
• Mental Health Stigma in Healthcare
• The Impact of Social Determinants on Health Disparities
• Healthcare Access and Rural Communities
• Health Communication in Public Health Campaigns
• Healthcare Systems in Developing Countries

Family Studies Research Paper Topics

• The Impact of Divorce Mediation on Children
• Foster Care and Adoption Policies
• Sibling Relationships and Birth Order Effects
• Interethnic and Intercultural Marriages
• The Role of Grandparents in Child-Rearing
• The Effect of Divorce on Sibling Relationships
• Parental Involvement and Child Development
• Foster Care and Child Welfare Reforms
• Domestic Violence and Support Services
• Aging Parents and Caregiver Stress

Globalization and Development Research Paper Topics

• The Role of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)
• Humanitarian Aid and International Crisis Response
• Cultural Exchange Programs and Diplomacy
• Global Supply Chain and Labor Conditions
• Sustainable Tourism and Cultural Preservation
• The Role of Multinational Corporations in Developing Economies
• Indigenous Rights and Sustainable Development
• Microfinance and Poverty Alleviation
• Fair Trade and Ethical Consumerism
• Global Health Partnerships and Disease Prevention

Social Justice Research Paper Topics

• Environmental Racism and its Implications
• Disability Rights and Inclusion
• LGBTQ+ Refugees and Asylum Seekers
• Juvenile Justice and Restorative Practices
• Mass Incarceration and Prison Reform
• LGBTQ+ Rights and Global Advocacy
• Refugee Rights and Resettlement Challenges
• Disability Rights and Access to Healthcare
• Criminal Justice Reform and Social Equity
• Indigenous Land Rights and Environmental Justice

Sociology of Religion Research Paper Topics

• Religious Fundamentalism in Contemporary Society
• Religion and Healthcare Decision-Making
• Interfaith Dialogue and Understanding
• Cults and Their Social Impact
• Religion and Ethics in Bioengineering
• Religious Pluralism and Interfaith Dialogue
• Religious Radicalism and Terrorism
• Religion’s Influence on Political Policies
• The Role of Religion in Environmental Ethics
• Secularism and Non-religious Worldviews

Social Impact of Technology Research Paper Topics

• Online Privacy and Digital Surveillance
• Artificial Intelligence and Its Ethical Challenges
• E-Government and Online Civic Engagement
• Social Media Activism and Its Limitations
• Technology and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
• Ethical Implications of Artificial Intelligence
• The Digital Divide and Technological Inequities
• Social Media Activism and Online Movements
• Cybersecurity and Data Privacy Concerns
• Virtual Reality and Its Applications in Education

Social Movements and Activism Research Paper Topics

• Black Panther Party and its Legacy
• Disability Rights Movements
• Global Youth Activism and Climate Change
• The Arab Spring and Political Change
• Indigenous Rights Movements in Latin America
• Youth-Led Movements and Their Impact on Social Change
• Women’s Suffrage and the Fight for Voting Rights
• Environmental Activism and Conservation Efforts
• Indigenous Rights Movements in Asia

Why Social Science Research Paper Topics Are Beneficial for Students

Social Science Research Paper Topics offer several advantages for students:

• Critical Thinking : Researching and writing about social science topics fosters critical thinking skills. It encourages students to analyze, interpret, and evaluate information and arguments.
• Understanding Society : Social science research topics help students better understand the complexities of human society, culture, and behavior.
• Research Skills : Students develop valuable research skills, including finding and assessing sources, conducting surveys or interviews, and drawing meaningful conclusions.
• Communication Skills : Writing research papers hones students’ communication skills, including the ability to express complex ideas clearly and persuasively.
• Awareness of Social Issues : Exploring social science topics can raise awareness of pressing social issues and encourage students to engage with them more deeply.
• Preparation for Future Careers : Many careers in fields like sociology, psychology, and political science require strong research and analytical skills. Engaging in social science research prepares students for these roles.

Social Science Research Paper Topics provide students with an opportunity to explore, analyze, and contribute to our understanding of human society and its complexities. By following the guidance on selecting topics and recognizing their benefits, students can embark on research projects that are not only academically fulfilling but also socially relevant and impactful.

Whether you choose a topic from sociology, psychology, anthropology, economics, political science, or any other social science field. With this extensive list of Social Science Research Paper Topics, students have a wide range of subjects to choose from, spanning sociology, psychology, anthropology, economics, political science, and more.

These topics offer an opportunity to delve into critical societal issues, analyze their implications, and contribute to a deeper understanding of human behavior and society’s complexities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an example of a social science research question.

What are the sources of social inequality, and how does it relate to political institutions and social structures?

How do you write a good social science research paper?

The information should be detailed enough for someone to replicate the study, but it should also be concise.

What is social science research essay?

Social Science Research is the activity of gathering, analysing and interpreting information for a variety of social, economic, educational and political purposes.

• Tags Social Science Research Paper , Social Science Research Paper Topics
• australia (2)
• duolingo (13)
• Education (269)
• General (74)
• How To (16)
• IELTS (127)
• Latest Updates (162)
• Malta Visa (6)
• Permanent residency (1)
• Programming (31)
• Scholarship (1)
• Sponsored (4)
• Study Abroad (187)
• Technology (12)
• work permit (8)

Recent Posts

88 Social Issues Essay Topics

🏆 best essay topics on social issues, 🌶️ hot social issues essay topics, 💡 simple social issues essay titles, 👍 good social issues research topics & essay examples, 🎓 most interesting social issues research titles.

• Social Media: The Privacy Issues
• Social Issues in Sports & Activities: Athletics
• Social Media Influence, Ethics, and Privacy Issues
• The Socialization Issue Between Indigenous and Non-indigenous People in Different Societies and Historical Stages
• “Black Panther”: Dealing With Real-Life Social Issues
• Analysis of Social Issues Raised in American Literature
• Artificial Intelligence: Ethical, Social, Legal Issues
• Stress Factors: Work, Financial, Social Issues The significant causes of stress identified by scholarly studies are problems at work, financial issues, social pressure, and relationship difficulties.
• Social Issue: Climate Change The topic of climate change was chosen to learn more in the modern sense about the phenomenon that most people have heard about for decades.
• Ethical, Political and Social Issues in Business in “The Corporation” Movie “The Corporation” is a documentary film released in 2003 that raises the public’s attention to significant problems in the corporate sphere.
• Healthcare Social Issue for Indigenous People in Canada It is worth pointing out that the social issue associated with the indigenous population of Canada and the health care system is relevant and open.
• Obesity: A Personal Problem and a Social Issue Obesity is a problem affecting many persons and society as a whole. According to World Health Organization, over 40% of the US population is either overweight or outright obese.
• Role Models in Children as a Social Issue Understanding how children and adolescent choose their role models is essential to promote socially desirable behaviors.
• Social, Legal, And Ethical Issues in the Modern Database Era In the past two decades, database-relevant issues have become intense, considering the all-penetrating nature of the data collection.
• Social Issues: The Drinking Age Limit The drinking age limit refers to the minimum number of years an individual should be allowed to access or consume alcoholic drinks. Majority of the countries prefer 18 years as limit.
• Diversity in a Workplace as a Social Issue The work provides a study of a discrimination social issue and the challenges and benefits that it has on the diverse workforce.
• Social Experiment: Informal Norms of Gender Issues The social experiment presents a contradiction between the socially-accepted norms and the understanding of equality between men and women.
• Accounting, Social Media, Workplace Ethical Issues Business ethics is a crucial concept that drives business growth and an important element in guiding strategic goals, short term, and long term focus on sustainability.
• Social Psychology and Health Issues Social psychologists respond to health issues taking into account people’s thoughts, feelings, and actions. They examine patients and their relations with others.
• Gun Violence as the Social Justice Issue The aim of the paper is to describe the issue of gun violence, analyze the reasons for the problem and propose a possible solution.
• Social Networks Security: Ethical Issues and Practicies Social networks have been having privacy issues. This paper discusses steps that Facebook should Facebook do with the data transferred to the site by Beacon.
• Social-Ecological Model for Health Issues Analysis This essay analyzes the different spheres that influenced one of the people with eating behavior problems according to the social-ecological model of health.
• Addressing Homelessness Issue: Current Policies This discussion identifies the latest policies intended to address the social issue of homeless Americans.
• Social Workers Ethical Issues In a scenario where a colleague believes that a particular subset of clients does not deserve the same attention and care as other groups, several ethical issues arise.
• Social Issues Reflected in the Art Works Most art pieces are born from real-life experiences of the author. Artworks reflect what happens in the day-to-day life and change the views on certain issues.
• Artificial Technology’s Ethical, Social, Legal Issues Artificial intelligence (AI) refers to the creation of intelligent machines that can perform actions that were traditionally reserved for human beings.
• Obesity as American Social Health Issue In the public health sector, obesity is defined as a social problem because it is associated with the eating habits and bodily lifestyles of every community.
• Social Issues: Family in Saudi Arabia Family is given a lot of importance in the Islamic society, especially Saudi Arabia. Women, whether educated or not, are more respected when they are married.
• Allocating Finite Resources and Social Issues The social issues of allocating finite resources include improper rationing, the shortage of health workers, the rising rate of uninsured, price gouging, etc.
• Social Work Ethics: Issues and Critical Debates The paper is based on a value conflict occurred between a social worker and his mentally ill patient. The conflict is caused by religious diversity and different value systems.
• Asian Americans and American Males’ Social Issues Most disadvantaged groups in the US such as Asian Americans suffer significantly from a number of social issues. Similarly, American males are encountering various challenges.
• Social Issues in Countries and Region The paper presents annotated bibliography about social issues such as poverty, social inequality, poor health and degradation.
• Terrorism as a Pressing Social Issue Terrorism is a crime, the aim of which is a violation of public safety, which is expressed in encroachment on the life and health of citizens and infrastructure facilities.
• A Career in Economics: Understanding Human Behavior and Tackling Social Issues Economics, a diverse discipline that extends beyond fiscal matters and quantitative proficiency, presents a dynamic and gratifying career trajectory. Fundamentally, it delves into human conduct and the distribution of resources within societal frameworks. This complex field encompasses micro and macroeconomics, examining the forces that drive individual decision-making and the larger…
• Gender as a Social Construct and Related Issues Through various cultural norms society helps its members form a gender identity. This paper aims to discuss how gender issues impact people’s identities and lives.
• Reconciliation and Social Issues Even though many religious groups actively use the concept of reconciliation in approaching social issues, it is crucial to know the limitation of its application.
• Racism and Biases Based on Social Issues and Attitudes Racism is a complicated occurrence, and this essay focuses on analyzing bias based on language use, power control, social issues, and social attitudes.
• Social Issues: Homeless Students Eleanor J. Bader is a journalist who reflects on everyday social issues; in her articles, she advocates a greater spread of movements for social change.
• Acute Social Issues in America There is a vast number of acute social issues in America that bother the minds of people, affect their health and well-being, and require measures to be solved.
• Social Issue of Poverty in America The paper states that poverty is not an individual’s fault but rather a direct result of social, economic, and political circumstances.
• Social Issues Surrounding Cybercrime Among many social problems that have already been discussed, the issue of rising cybercrime has been on my mind the most.
• Individual Responsibilities on Definirion of Social Justice Issues Considering divergent opinions from reviews concerning the non-precision or non-existence of the definition of social justice.
• Homelessness as a Social Issue in California The issue of homelessness has brought several issues in California, owing to the large population of financially unstable citizens.
• Social Issues of Allocating Finite Resources The distribution of such resources as personal protective equipment, ventilators, investigational therapeutics, and hospital beds requires making hard decisions.
• Racial Discrimination as a Social Justice Issue Racial discrimination is more pronounced in other US regions than others, and that is why the respective states need to work harmoniously to avert social evil.
• James Baldwin Exploring Social and Racial Issues The literary works of Baldwin are a significant contribution to U.S. culture as they illustrate the author’s justified disappointment with his country.
• The Climate of Social Justice, Racism, COVID-19, and Other Issues The paper argues ideas of music, culture and society are contended to be inseparably connected, which can be clarified through the space of ethnomusicology.
• Community’s Overall Well-Being: Real-Time Social Issues The paper addresses real-time social issues that affect the people residing within a society. Everybody is susceptible to various kinds of social injustices.
• Social Media and Issues Regarding the Use of Social Media Issues regarding the use of social media by individuals and organizations offering health information usually put them at risk of legal litigation, especially in case of a breach.
• Social Control Theory: Informal Control Issue Social Control Theory consists of a structured human control system that incorporates all the aspects of human living.
• Status of Women and Impact on Health and Social Issues in Honduras Gender inequality in Honduras is below the average as women experience significant discrimination in social, political, economic circles.
• The Importance of Solving a Social Issue of Environmental Plastic Pollution Plastic single-use cheap objects constitute a large volume of all waste globally, forming big plastic patches in the oceans, seas, and land, thus harming the marine and land wildlife.
• Social and Natural Sciences Issues Natural science is the best-suited lenses for studying natural phenomena. Social sciences lenses will play a central role in gathering information.
• All in the Family and MASH: Addressed Social Issues and Criticism From the Religious Right All in the family and MASH addressed several issues that were impacting either positively or negatively on the lives of people at that time and even today.
• Coffee Firm: Environmental and Social Issues We take a critical look into some of the environmental and social concerns that may be associated with this Coffee firm in the United Kingdom.
• Political and Social Issues Discussion in the Classroom Author defends opinion that professors shouldn’t be allowed to advocate their views on political or social issues in the classroom cause every has a right to have his/her own views.
• Gender Pay Gap as a Serious Social Issue The purpose of current research is to analyse people’s awareness of and attitudes toward the issue of the gender pay gap.
• Aristotle’s Involvement in Social Issues Aristotle’s philosophy united several approaches and regarded a human being as a multidimensional creature, which accounts for his entirely new look at society.
• Municipal Waste Disposal as Social and Ecological Issue The study aims to ban the location of the waste incineration industry within the urban zones. This topic covers both social and environmental issues.
• War Veterans’ Mental Health as Social Issue This work discusses the current issue on the War Veterans returning home and not receiving proper mental health care due to a lack of professionals serving the Armed Forces.
• Diabetes in Adolescents, Social and Medical Issues This essay identifies some of the peer-reviewed articles that qualitatively and/or quantitatively discuss diabetes in adolescents.
• Drug Abuse, HIV/AIDS, and Songs on Social Issues Drug abuse and HIV/AIDS are some of the major social issues affecting society today. Songs have been used in raising awareness about social issues that affect the world.
• Social Issues: Human Condition This paper will look at poetry and prose, and how literature has continuously been used in the past to enlighten people and bring to light, the human condition.
• Social Issues: Understanding Opinions and Group Pressure by Solomon E. Asch Human beings are social creatures by nature. It is noted that most of their behavioral traits are attributed to their social disposition.
• Social Issues: America and China Comparison This paper compares America and China in such spheres as law, education, medical, and insurance. There are many differences between the Chinese and American systems of education.
• Social Issues: Digital Divide in Washington The term ‘digital divide’ has become popular with the recent developments in the information and technology sector. A major digital divide in Washington involves access to broadband technology.
• Teamwork Benefits and Social Loafing Issue The self-assessment “Evaluate Team Member Effectiveness” reveals weaknesses and strengths regarding working in a team and illustrates benefits of teamwork.
• Social Issues: Discrimination of Black Population in USA Despite numerous democratic endeavors, the gap between the representatives of the Black culture and the White residents of the USA is still huge.
• The Key Social Issues Facing Criminal Justice
• Social Issues: The Social Context of Adolescent Depression
• The Legal and Social Issues Surrounding DNA Databanking
• Urban Social Issues Concerning Tourism in Papua New Guinea
• Baby Boomers on Their Role in Social Issues and How Luck
• The Three Social Issues at the Time of Gandhi
• Uniforms Cannot Control School Violence, Social Issues
• American Culture and Gender vs. Racial Differences, Social Issues
• The Sociological Imagination and Understanding Personal Troubles as Social Issues
• Animals Testing, Extinction, Habitat Loss, and Mass Hunting, Social Issues
• The Social Issues and Long-Term Effects of Toddlers and Tiaras on Children
• Age Discrimination Within the Workplace, Social Issues
• The World War Was a Scapegoat for Social Issues
• How Are Social Issues Affecting Access to Healthcare in the U.S.?
• Attitudes Towards Poverty and Related Social Issues in Ireland
• The Social Issues and Legislation of Drug Abuse and Prostitution
• American Airlines Environmental, Governance, and Social Issues
• The Social Issues Surrounding Women in Ancient Greece
• American Social Issues and Revolutionary Ideas
• The Social Issues Affecting Our Children

Cite this post

• Chicago (N-B)
• Chicago (A-D)

StudyCorgi. (2022, June 5). 88 Social Issues Essay Topics. https://studycorgi.com/ideas/social-issues-essay-topics/

"88 Social Issues Essay Topics." StudyCorgi , 5 June 2022, studycorgi.com/ideas/social-issues-essay-topics/.

StudyCorgi . (2022) '88 Social Issues Essay Topics'. 5 June.

1. StudyCorgi . "88 Social Issues Essay Topics." June 5, 2022. https://studycorgi.com/ideas/social-issues-essay-topics/.

Bibliography

StudyCorgi . "88 Social Issues Essay Topics." June 5, 2022. https://studycorgi.com/ideas/social-issues-essay-topics/.

StudyCorgi . 2022. "88 Social Issues Essay Topics." June 5, 2022. https://studycorgi.com/ideas/social-issues-essay-topics/.

These essay examples and topics on Social Issues were carefully selected by the StudyCorgi editorial team. They meet our highest standards in terms of grammar, punctuation, style, and fact accuracy. Please ensure you properly reference the materials if you’re using them to write your assignment.

This essay topic collection was updated on December 28, 2023 .

• Search Menu
• Advance Articles
• The Authors' Attic: Interviews with Authors
• High Impact Articles

Award-Winning Articles

Virtual issues.

• Author Guidelines
• Submission Site
• Open Access Options
• Why Submit?
• About Social Problems
• About the Society for the Study of Social Problems
• Editorial Board
• Advertising and Corporate Services
• Journals Career Network
• Dispatch Dates
• Contact SSSP
• Contact Social Problems
• Journals on Oxford Academic
• Books on Oxford Academic

Annulla Linders

Earl Wright II

Derrick Brooms

About the journal

Social Problems is the official publication of The Society for the Study of Social Problems and has been has been an important forum for sociological thought for over six decades.

Latest articles

Latest posts on x, high-impact articles.

Access a selection of notable articles from Social Problems that offer a sample of the impressive body of research from the journal. The articles represent a selection of the most cited, most read, and most discussed articles from recent years.

Explore collection

Virtual issues from  Social Problems  are compiled by a special guest editor and include a selection of articles on a particular topic. Virtual issues typically are centered around timely events and significant trends.

Explore the virtual issues

Social Problems'  standing as a leading publication is reinforced by the articles published in its pages that go on to win a variety of awards and prizes. Articles that win awards are recognized on the Social Problems Awards page.

View awards

 The Sociology of W. E. B. Du Bois 

Explore this special issue from Social Problems,  which demonstrates the influence of Du Bois in the discipline and why the sociologist's work is still relevant today.  

Read the articles

Connect with Social Problems

Join the conversation! Never miss the latest news and updates from Social Problems by engaging with the journal on social media.

The Society for the Study of Social Problems

Social Problems is the official publication of the Society for the Study of Social Problems (SSSP). SSSP is an interdisciplinary community of scholars, practitioners, advocates, and students interested in the application of critical, scientific, and humanistic perspectives to the study of vital social problems.

Learn more about SSSP

Publish in Social Problems

Want to publish in Social Problems? The journal brings to the forefront influential sociological findings and theories that have the ability to help us both better understand and better deal with our complex social environment.

View submission instructions

Why submit?

"The Authors' Attic"

"The Authors' Attic" is a forum that provides authors an opportunity to discuss pressing and relevant social issues of our time.

View all videos

stef m. shuster and Laurel Westbrook are the authors of “ Reducing the Joy Deficit in Sociology: A Study of Transgender Joy ”

Scott Duxbury is the author of " The Boys in Blue Are Watching You: The Shifting Metropolitan Landscape and Big Data Police Surveillance in the United States. "

Sarah Larissa Combellick is the author of " “My Baby Went Straight to Heaven”: Morality Work in Abortion Storytelling "

Developing countries initiative

Your institution could be eligible to free or deeply discounted online access to Social Problems through the Oxford Developing Countries Initiative.

Find out more

Email alerts

Register to receive table of contents email alerts as soon as new issues of Social Problems are published online.

Promote your work on Social Media

OUP actively engages with social media across a range of platforms and channels. We have put together guidelines to help you  promote your article on social media.

Related Titles

• Recommend to Your Librarian

Affiliations

• Online ISSN 1533-8533
• Print ISSN 0037-7791
• Copyright © 2024 Society for the Study of Social Problems
• About Oxford Academic
• Publish journals with us
• University press partners
• What we publish
• New features  
• Open access
• Institutional account management
• Rights and permissions
• Get help with access
• Accessibility
• Advertising
• Media enquiries
• Oxford University Press
• Oxford Languages
• University of Oxford

Oxford University Press is a department of the University of Oxford. It furthers the University's objective of excellence in research, scholarship, and education by publishing worldwide

• Copyright © 2024 Oxford University Press
• Cookie settings
• Cookie policy
• Privacy policy
• Legal notice

This Feature Is Available To Subscribers Only

Sign In or Create an Account

This PDF is available to Subscribers Only

For full access to this pdf, sign in to an existing account, or purchase an annual subscription.

Sociology Research Topics: Key Considerations and Ideas

Did you know that as of 2021, income inequality in the United States was at its highest level in over 50 years? This striking fact underscores the pressing need to examine the dynamic world of sociology research paper topics. It's a field that goes beyond mere statistics, delving deep into the intricate tapestry of human society. Income inequality, just one thread in this complex fabric, has far-reaching consequences on social mobility, access to education, healthcare, and even political influence. These disparities don't just affect individual lives; they shape the very foundations of our communities and nations.

Sociology Research Topics: Short Description

In this article, we'll focus our lens on diverse social issues that captivate the minds of researchers and shape our understanding of the world we inhabit. From the qualities of a strong research topic to the intricacies of research methods, we'll explore the methodologies that underpin groundbreaking studies. Additionally, we'll delve into selecting sociology research topics, providing tips and guidelines to help researchers find their academic compass in this vast terrain!

Qualities of a Strong Sociology Research Topic

A strong sociology research topic is like a compass that guides scholars through the uncharted terrain of society's complexities. To stand out in the realm of sociological inquiry, one must select a topic possessing unique and insightful qualities. Here are key attributes from our ' write paper for me ' experts that define such topics:

• Relevance to Contemporary Issues : Potent sociology research ideas should be rooted in the here and now, addressing issues that resonate with contemporary society. This ensures that the research remains pertinent, capturing the zeitgeist of the era and facilitating meaningful societal change.
• Interdisciplinary Potential : The strongest research topics often bridge gaps between sociology and other disciplines. They have the potential to draw insights from fields like psychology, economics, anthropology, or political science, fostering a holistic understanding of complex societal phenomena.
• Underexplored Terrains : Novelty is a hallmark of strong research topics. Choosing uncharted areas of study allows researchers to make fresh contributions to the field, opening doors to new perspectives and paradigms.
• Empirical Feasibility : While theoretical exploration is vital, a strong topic should also be empirically feasible. It should enable researchers to gather data and test hypotheses, ensuring that the findings have practical applications and can contribute to policy or societal change.
• Ethical Values : Topics that raise ethical questions and dilemmas are often powerful. They encourage researchers to grapple with moral complexities and contribute to ongoing debates about societal values and norms.
• Community Engagement : Topics that involve the active participation of communities or marginalized groups often yield valuable insights. Such engagement ensures that research is not conducted in isolation but collaboratively with those directly affected by the issues under investigation.
• Longitudinal Perspective : Societal phenomena evolve over time. A strong topic should lend itself to a longitudinal perspective, allowing researchers to track changes and continuities offering deeper insights into societal transformations.
• Global Relevance : In an interconnected world, global perspectives are invaluable. Research topics with international implications or comparative elements can shed light on commonalities and differences across cultures, making the research more insightful and relevant on a broader scale.
• Intersectionality : Recognizing the intersection of various social factors (e.g., race, gender, class, sexuality) within a topic adds depth and complexity. Strong topics should acknowledge and explore these intersections to provide a richer understanding of social dynamics.
• Policy Implications : Lastly, strong research topics should have the potential to inform policy decisions. They should offer practical solutions or recommendations that can lead to positive societal change.

Exploring Sociological Research Methods

Sociological research is a multifaceted endeavor that employs a wide array of methods to investigate and understand complex social phenomena. The choice of research method depends on the nature of the research question, the available resources, and the desired depth of analysis. Here, we delve into the diverse landscape of sociology research methods:

Surveys and Questionnaires :

• Quantitative Research : Surveys and questionnaires are popular tools for collecting numerical data on a large scale. They are effective for studying attitudes, behaviors, and demographics. These methods provide statistical insights into patterns and correlations within society.

Interviews :

• Qualitative Research : Interviews involve in-depth conversations with individuals or groups. They allow researchers to explore complex social phenomena, experiences, and perspectives. Open-ended questions provide rich qualitative data.

Observational Research :

• Participant Observation : Researchers immerse themselves in the social context they are studying, often over extended periods. This method is valuable for gaining insights into social practices, norms, and behaviors from an insider's perspective.
• Non-Participant Observation : Researchers observe and document social phenomena without actively participating. This method is used to maintain objectivity and can be applied in various settings, from public spaces to institutions.

Content Analysis :

• Textual and Visual Analysis : Content analysis involves the systematic examination of texts, images, or other mass media. Researchers analyze patterns, themes, and meanings within the content to draw sociological insights. This method is often used to study media representations, discourse, and cultural artifacts.

Experimental Research :

• Laboratory and Field Experiments : Experimental research manipulates variables to test causal relationships. While less common in sociology due to ethical and practical constraints, experiments can provide valuable insights into human behavior and causality.

Archival Research :

• Historical and Document Analysis : Sociologists frequently delve into historical records, documents, and archives to trace the evolution of social phenomena over time. This method is crucial for understanding the historical context of contemporary issues.

Ethnography :

• Deep Immersion and Participant Observation : Ethnographic research involves long-term, immersive engagement with a specific social group or community. Researchers seek to understand the culture, practices, and social dynamics from the inside.

Secondary Data Analysis :

• Using Existing Data : Researchers often analyze existing datasets, such as census data, government reports, or surveys conducted by other organizations. This approach can be cost-effective and allows for the exploration of a wide range of sociological questions.

Mixed-Methods Research :

• Combining Quantitative and Qualitative Approaches : Mixed-methods research integrates both quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis. This comprehensive approach offers a more nuanced understanding of complex social issues.

Online Research :

• Digital Ethnography and Big Data Analysis : Researchers are increasingly turning to the internet and social media as valuable resources for studying online communities, behaviors, and trends. They harness the power of big data analysis techniques to gain valuable insights from the vast datasets created by online interactions, thus enhancing their work on research topics in sociology.

If you're interested in exploring how to write a discursive essay , we offer a wealth of intriguing insights on the subject as well.

Selecting Sociology Research Paper Topics: Tips and Guidelines

Choosing sociology research topics ideas is a crucial step in the research process. It sets the tone for your study, determines the direction of your investigation, and can greatly impact the quality and relevance of your work. To select a compelling topic that stands out and resonates with both you and your audience, consider the following tips and guidelines:

• Start with Introductory Texts :
• As a college student, you may not yet have an in-depth understanding of the field. Begin by exploring introductory sociology textbooks and course materials. These resources can introduce you to key sociological concepts and help you identify areas that pique your interest.
•  Consult Your Professors :
• Don't hesitate to seek guidance from your sociology professors or academic advisors. They can provide valuable insights into research areas that align with your skills, coursework, and academic goals. Professors often appreciate students who show enthusiasm for delving deeper into the subject matter.
• Analyze Local Social Dynamics :
• Investigate the social issues and dynamics specific to your local community or region. By focusing on localized topics, you can offer a unique perspective that contributes to a deeper understanding of how broader sociological concepts manifest in your area.
• Explore Underrepresented Voices :
• Consider sociology research topics for college students that give voice to marginalized or underrepresented groups. Research that amplifies the experiences and challenges faced by these groups can shed light on social inequalities and provide fresh insights into the dynamics of power and privilege.
• Examine Emerging Social Trends :
• Pay attention to emerging social trends, such as the impact of technology on social interactions, changes in family structures, or evolving work patterns. Investigating these contemporary shifts can lead to innovative research paper topics with real-world relevance.
• Consider Your Academic Goals :
• Reflect on your long-term academic and career goals. Are there specific areas within sociology that align with your future plans? For example, if you aspire to work in social policy, you might want to focus on topics related to social welfare or public health. Tailoring your research to your career aspirations can be a motivating factor.

Ready to Conquer the World of Sociology with a Little Expert Backup?

Unleash your inner sociologist with the help of our sociology essay writing service , and together, we'll craft a masterpiece that'll have everyone talking!

Sociology Research Topics Ideas

Sociology is a multifaceted field that examines the intricate web of human interactions, institutions, and societal structures. Within this discipline, a wide array of sociology research paper topics can be explored, each shedding light on different aspects of the social world. Here are some topic ideas categorized into subcategories:

Social Inequality and Stratification :

• Income Inequality : Causes and consequences of income disparities.
• Educational Inequality : Factors contributing to disparities in education.
• Occupational Stratification : Impact of occupation and social class.
• Gender Pay Gap : Wage disparities between genders.

Cultural Identity and Belonging :

• Cultural Assimilation : Processes and impact on immigrant communities.
• Racial Identity : Construction and navigation of racial identities.
• Intersectionality : Interplay of multiple identity aspects.

Social Movements and Activism :

• Civil Rights Movements : Historical and contemporary social justice movements.
• Environmental Activism : Societal responses to environmental challenges.
• Political Participation : Influence of interest groups and political processes.

Migration and Identity :

• Refugee Integration : The challenges and successes of refugee integration into host societies.
• Diaspora Communities : Examining the cultural and social dynamics of diaspora communities.
• Immigrant Identities : How immigrants navigate identity and belonging in a new country.

Technology and Relationships :

• Online Dating : The impact of technology on modern dating and relationship formation.
• Digital Communication : How digital communication tools affect interpersonal relationships.
• Cyberbullying : Societal responses to online harassment and cyberbullying.
• AI and Ethics : Ethical considerations surrounding artificial intelligence and technology.

These general social issues essay topics can serve as a starting point for your exploration of the field. As you narrow down your interests, consider delving deeper into specific subtopics or issues within these broader categories to develop a focused and meaningful research question for your paper.

General Sociology Research Topics

• Digital Surveillance and Privacy Concerns : Investigate the impact of pervasive digital surveillance on individual privacy and its societal consequences.
• The Gig Economy and Worker Precarity : Analyze the effects of the gig economy on labor markets, job security, and workers' rights.
• Radicalization in Online Spaces : Explore the process of radicalization in online communities and its real-world consequences.
• Social Media's Impact on Political Polarization : Examine the relationship between social media use and political polarization, focusing on recent developments.
• The Loneliness Epidemic in Modern Society : Analyze the factors contributing to increased feelings of loneliness and social isolation in contemporary society.
• Remote Work and Its Societal Implications : Investigate how the shift to remote work is changing work-life balance, urban dynamics, and social interactions.
• Eco-Anxiety and Climate Activism : Study the psychological and sociological aspects of eco-anxiety and its role in driving climate activism.
• Cryptocurrency and Socioeconomic Inequality : Analyze the impact of cryptocurrencies on wealth distribution and financial inclusion.
• The Role of Social Entrepreneurship in Sustainable Development : Explore how social entrepreneurs are addressing social and environmental challenges.
• Intergenerational Wealth Transfer and Inequality : Investigate the implications of wealth transfer from older to younger generations on societal inequality.

Race, Nationality, Ethnicity

• Afrofuturism's Cultural Impact : Explore the influence of Afrofuturism in contemporary art, music, and literature on race and identity narratives.
• Solidarity Between Afro-Asian Diasporas : Study contemporary solidarity movements between African and Asian diaspora communities and their shared social and political objectives.
• Afro-Latinx Identity Complexity : Examine the complexities of racial and ethnic identities in individuals who identify as both Black and Latinx.
• Indigenous Knowledge for Sustainability : Investigate how Indigenous communities contribute to addressing environmental challenges through traditional knowledge.
• Transracial Adoption and Identity : Analyze the identity formation experiences of transracially adopted individuals, focusing on their sense of belonging and heritage.
• Refugee Integration and Cohesion : Study the challenges and achievements of refugee integration, emphasizing social cohesion.
• Critical Race Theory in Education : Explore the implementation and impact of critical race theory in educational institutions.
• Racial Disparities in Healthcare : Investigate the social factors contributing to healthcare access and outcome disparities based on race.
• Indigenous Language Revitalization : Examine initiatives aimed at preserving and revitalizing Indigenous languages and their cultural significance.
• Cultural Sensitivity in Sexual Education : Recognize that sexual education varies significantly due to diverse cultural norms, beliefs, and values regarding sexuality and relationships in different communities.

Social Movements and Activism

• Fashion Sustainability Activism : Explore how activists drive environmental changes and consumer behaviors in the fashion industry toward sustainability.
• Crowdsourcing in Crisis Relief : Analyze the role of online crowdsourcing in rapid disaster and pandemic response efforts.
• Algorithmic Accountability Movements : Examine activism demanding transparency in algorithm use, spanning from criminal justice to social media.
• Disability Rights in Tech : Investigate activists' efforts to ensure emerging technologies like virtual and augmented reality are accessible to people with disabilities.
• Digital Activism in the Authoritarian States : Analyze challenges and strategies employed by digital activists promoting democracy and human rights in authoritarian regimes.
• Ageism Activism : Explore advocacy efforts addressing ageism and elderly rights, especially in an aging world.
• Cross-Border Anti-Corruption Movements : Study activist networks combating corruption across borders and their impact on governance and accountability.
• Youth Mental Health Advocacy : Examine youth-led movements promoting mental health services, reducing stigma, and enhancing well-being in schools and communities.
• Global Disability Rights Treaty Progress : Investigate the implementation progress and obstacles regarding the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) in various nations.
• Transnational Feminist Alliances : Analyze alliances among feminist movements from diverse regions, tackling global gender disparities and advocating for women's rights.

Culture and Media

• AI Art and Copyright : Investigate copyright issues and ethical considerations in AI-generated artworks amid changing paradigms of artistic creation.
• Influencers and Consumer Behavior : Analyze social media influencers' impact on consumer choices, brand loyalty, and advertising tactics.
• Sustainability in Pop Culture : Examine sustainability portrayal in contemporary media and its influence on public attitudes and actions.
• VR Museums for Heritage : Explore VR technology's role in conserving and presenting cultural heritage, addressing accessibility and conservation challenges.
• NFTs and Digital Ownership : Study the rise of NFTs as digital assets and their impact on art, entertainment, and collectibles industries.
• Podcasts for Social Change : Investigate how podcasts serve as platforms for activism, community-building, and social commentary, fostering dialogue and transformation.
• Metaverse Culture Impact : Analyze how metaverse platforms influence identity, relationships, and creativity in contemporary culture.
• Reality TV and Identity : Examine reality TV's role in shaping viewer perceptions of identity, body image, and social norms.
• Fan Engagement in Media : Explore fan contributions to media content creation and interpretation, including fan fiction, fan art, and activism.
• Impact of Digital Media on Religious Education : Delve into the complex interplay between digital media, cultural shifts, and religious education.

Health and Well-Being

Now, let's take a closer look at sociology research topics pertaining to health and well-being.

• Nutrition and Mental Health : Explore how diet influences mood, cognition, and mental well-being.
• Aging in Place Tech : Analyze technologies supporting older adults' independence at home.
• Ecotherapy for Mental Health : Study nature-based interventions' therapeutic benefits, especially in urban environments.
• Social Prescribing in Healthcare : Examine healthcare providers recommending non-medical activities for well-being.
• Ethics of Genetic Editing : Investigate ethical dilemmas in genetic editing technologies and their impact on health.
• Telemedicine for Mental Health : Analyze telemedicine's effectiveness in mental health care, considering accessibility and privacy.
• Digital Biomarkers in Health : Investigate the use of digital biomarkers for early disease detection and personalized health monitoring.
• Intermittent Fasting and Metabolism : Examine the potential health effects of intermittent fasting on metabolism and longevity.
• Blockchain in Healthcare : Study blockchain's role in secure health data management and sharing.
• Human Augmentation and Well-being : Analyze the societal and ethical implications of human augmentation technologies on individual well-being.

Social Inequality and Stratification

• Platform Economy and Workers : Explore how gig work and delivery apps impact income inequality and worker stability, considering recent labor rights developments.
• Space Tourism and Wealth : Analyze the impact of space tourism on global wealth inequality, including access, environmental concerns, and regulation.
• Algorithmic Credit Scoring : Examine algorithmic credit scoring's effects on financial inclusion and economic disparities, with a focus on bias and discrimination.
• Climate Change and Migration : Investigate the link between climate change, forced migration, and social inequality, especially affecting vulnerable populations.
• Digital Redlining and Internet Access : Study digital redlining's consequences on internet access in underserved areas and its impact on education and economic opportunities.
• Automation and Job Disparities : Analyze how automation and AI affect employment disparities, considering affected sectors and demographics.
• AI Bias in Healthcare : Examine how AI in healthcare may perpetuate health disparities and unequal access to quality treatment.
• Urban Food Deserts : Study urban food deserts and their role in nutritional inequality, exploring solutions for improved access to healthy food.
• Regional Income Inequality : Explore disparities in income at regional levels within countries, examining causes, consequences, and policy responses.
• Social Media Moderation : Investigate how social media content moderation affects freedom of expression, including issues like bias, misinformation, and inequality amplification.

Family and Relationships

Here is a selection of compelling sociology research topics that revolve around the themes of family and relationships.

• Polyamory and Relationships : Explore the experiences and challenges of individuals and families practicing polyamory, examining its impact on relationship structures and norms.
• Metaverse Parenting : Analyze how parents navigate raising children in a digital metaverse world, addressing privacy, screen time, and virtual relationships.
• Long-Distance Grandparenting : Examine how technology helps maintain intergenerational relationships for grandparents and grandchildren separated by distance.
• Online Dating for Seniors : Study how older adults use online dating platforms, considering technology's influence on late-life dating, companionship, and well-being.
• Siblings' Roles in Elderly Care : Investigate adult siblings' responsibilities in caring for aging parents, including emotional, financial, and logistical aspects.
• LGBTQ+ Parenting Experiences : Analyze the unique challenges and experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals as parents, including legal recognition, discrimination, and support networks.
• Influence of Family Influencers : Examine how family influencers on social media shape parenting norms, choices, and behaviors among young parents.
• Co-Parenting with AI : Investigate the ethical and psychological implications of co-parenting with artificial intelligence and robots, including attachment and family dynamics.
• Mixed Nationalities in Families : Study the experiences of families with mixed nationalities, considering the impact of immigration policies on family reunification and stability.
• Aging Solo Support Networks : Analyze the challenges and strategies of individuals aging solo (without a spouse or children) in building and maintaining social support networks for late-life well-being.

Crime and Deviance

• Crypto Crime and Cybersecurity : Investigate emerging cryptocurrency-related crimes, such as ransomware attacks, and the cybersecurity challenges in the digital era.
• Biohacking and Ethics : Analyze the legal and ethical implications of biohacking, including body modification, and its potential to blur legal boundaries.
• Dark Web Markets : Examine dark web marketplaces' role in facilitating illegal transactions, including drug sales, weapons, and data theft.
• Environmental Deviance : Investigate environmental offenses like illegal logging, wildlife trafficking, and pollution and their impacts on ecosystems and communities.
• Deepfake Technology : Analyze deepfake technology's use in identity theft and its potential legal and societal consequences.
• Corporate Espionage : Examine corporate espionage and intellectual property theft in the digital age and their impact on industries and economies.
• Online Hate Crimes : Study the rise of online hate crimes and extremist content, exploring monitoring, prevention, and legal prosecution strategies.
• AI in Sentencing : Investigate how artificial intelligence in sentencing decisions may affect disparities in criminal justice outcomes.
• Deviant Health Practices : Analyze DIY medical procedures and deviant health practices facilitated by online communities and their challenges to public health and regulation.
• Virtual Currency Laundering : Examine the use of virtual currencies like cryptocurrencies in money laundering and financial crimes, considering evolving techniques and countermeasures.

Closing Reflections

In closing, the diverse array of sociology research topics ideas presented here reflects the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of human society. Much like economics essay topics , these areas provide ample opportunities for exploration, in-depth analysis, and the potential for uncovering insights into pressing contemporary issues. The possibilities for meaningful research in sociology are endless, ensuring that this discipline remains vital and relevant in the years to come.

Let's Write Your Sociological Legacy!

Our skilled research essay writers will craft a masterpiece that'll echo through the annals of academia!

Related Articles

• Bipolar Disorder
• Therapy Center
• When To See a Therapist
• Types of Therapy
• Best Online Therapy
• Best Couples Therapy
• Best Family Therapy
• Managing Stress
• Sleep and Dreaming
• Understanding Emotions
• Self-Improvement
• Healthy Relationships
• Student Resources
• Personality Types
• Guided Meditations
• Verywell Mind Insights
• 2023 Verywell Mind 25
• Mental Health in the Classroom
• Editorial Process
• Meet Our Review Board
• Crisis Support

Social Psychology Research Topics

Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."

Emily is a board-certified science editor who has worked with top digital publishing brands like Voices for Biodiversity, Study.com, GoodTherapy, Vox, and Verywell.

Choosing topics for social psychology research papers or projects for class can be challenging. It is a broad and fascinating field, which can make it challenging to figure out what you want to investigate in your research.

Social psychology explores how individual thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are affected by social influences. It explores how each person's behavior is affected by their social environment.

This article explores a few different social psychology topics and research questions you might want to study in greater depth. It covers how to start your search for a topic as well as specific ideas you might choose to explore.

How to Find a Social Psychology Research Topic

As you begin your search, think about the questions that you have. What topics interest you? Following your own interests and curiosities can often inspire great research questions.

Choose a Sub-Topic

Social psychologists are interested in all aspects of social behavior. Some of the main areas of interest within the field include social cognition, social influence, and social relationships investigating subtopics such as conformity, groupthink, attitude formation, obedience, prejudice, and so on.

• Social cognition : How do we process and use information about social experiences? What kinds of biases influence how we engage with other people?
• Social influence: What are the key social factors that influence our attitudes and behavior? What are group dynamics and how do we understand patterns of behavior in groups?
• Social relationships : What are the different types of social relationships? How do they develop and change over time?

To help ensure that you select a topic that is specific enough, it can be helpful to start by confining your search to one of these main areas.

Browse Through Past Research

After narrowing down your choices, consider what questions you might have. Are there questions that haven't been fully answered by previous studies? At this point, it can be helpful to spend some time browsing through journal articles or books to see some examples of past findings and identify gaps in the literature.

You can also find inspiration and learn more about a topic by searching for keywords related to your topic in psychological databases such as PsycINFO or browsing through some professional psychology journals.

Narrow Down Your Specific Topic

Once you have a general topic, you'll need to narrow down your research. The goal is to choose a research question that is specific, measurable, and testable. Let's say you want to study conformity; An example of a good research question might be, “Are people more likely to conform when they are in a small group or a large group?” In this case, the specific topic of your paper would be how group size influences social conformity .

Review the Literature on Your Chosen Topic

After choosing a specific social psychology topic to research, the next step is to do a literature review. A literature review involves reading through the existing research findings related to a specific topic.

You are likely to encounter a great deal of information on your topic, which can seem overwhelming at times. You may find it helpful to start by reading review articles or meta-analysis studies. These are summaries of previous research on your topic or studies that incorporate a large pool of past research on the topic.

Talk to Your Instructor

Even if you are really excited to dive right in and start working on your project, there are some important preliminary steps you need to take.

Before you decide to tackle a project for your social psychology class, you should always clear your idea with your instructor. This initial step can save you a lot of time and hassle later on.

Your instructor can offer clear feedback on things you should and should not do while conducting your research and might be able to offer some helpful tips. Also, if you plan to implement your own social experiment, your school might require you to present to and gain permission from an institutional review board.

Thinking about the questions you have about social psychology can be a great way to discover topics for your own research. Once you have a general idea, explore the literature and refine your research question to make sure it is specific enough.

Examples of Social Psychology Research Topics

The following are some specific examples of different subjects you might want to investigate further as part of a social psychology research paper, experiment, or project:

Implicit Attitudes

How do implicit attitudes influence how people respond to others? This can involve exploring how people's attitudes towards different groups of people (e.g., men, women, ethnic minorities) influence their interactions with those groups. For example, one study found that 75% of people perceive men to be more intelligent than women .

In your own project, you might explore how implicit attitudes impact perceptions of qualities such as kindness, intelligence, leadership skills, or attractiveness.

Prosocial Behavior

You might also choose to focus on prosocial behavior in your research. This can involve investigating the reasons why people help others. Some questions you could explore further include:

• What motivates people to help others?
• When are people most likely to help others?
• How does helping others cause people to feel?
• What are the benefits of helping other people?

How do people change their attitudes in response to persuasion? What are the different techniques that can be used to persuade someone? What factors make some people more susceptible to persuasion than others?

One way to investigate this could be through collecting a wide variety of print advertisements and analyzing how​ persuasion is used. What types of cognitive and affective techniques are utilized? Do certain types of advertisements tend to use specific kinds of persuasive techniques ?

Another area of social psychology that you might research is aggression and violence. This can involve exploring the factors that lead to aggression and violence and the consequences of these behaviors. Some questions you might explore further include:

• When is violence most likely to occur?
• What factors influence violent behavior?
• Do traumatic experiences in childhood lead to more aggressive behavior in adulthood?
• Does viewing violent media content contribute to increased aggressive behavior in real life?

Prejudice and discrimination are areas that present a range of research opportunities. This can involve studying the different forms that prejudice takes (e.g., sexism, racism, ageism ), as well as the psychological effects of prejudice and discrimination. You might also want to investigate topics related to how prejudices form or strategies that can be used to reduce such discrimination.

Nonverbal Behavior

How do people respond when nonverbal communication does not match up to verbal behavior (for example, saying you feel great when your facial expressions and tone of voice indicate otherwise). Which signal do people respond to most strongly?

How good are people at detecting lies ? Have participants tell a group of people about themselves, but make sure some of the things are true while others are not. Ask members of the group which statements they thought were true and which they thought were false.

Social Norms

How do people react when social norms are violated? This might involve acting in a way that is outside the norm in a particular situation or enlisting friends to act out the behaviors while you observe.

Some examples that you might try include wearing unusual clothing, applauding inappropriately at the end of a class lecture, cutting in line in front of other people, or some other mildly inappropriate behavior. Keep track of your own thoughts as you perform the experiment and observe how people around you respond.

Online Social Behavior

Does online social networking make people more or less likely to interact with people in face-to-face or other offline settings? To investigate this further, you could create a questionnaire to assess how often people participate in social networking versus how much time they spend interacting with their friends in real-world settings.

Social Perception

How does our appearance impact how people respond to us? Ask some friends to help you by having two people dress up in dramatically different ways, one in a professional manner and one in a less conventional manner. Have each person engage in a particular action, then observe how they are treated and how other people's responses differ.

Social psychologists have found that attractiveness can produce what is known as a halo effect . Essentially, we tend to assume that people who are physically attractive are also friendly, intelligent, pleasant, and likable.

To investigate this topic, you could set up an experiment where you have participants look at photographs of people of varying degrees of physical attractiveness, and then ask them to rate each person based on a variety of traits, including social competence, kindness, intellect, and overall likability.

Think about how this might affect a variety of social situations, including how employees are selected or how jurors in a criminal case might respond.

Social psychology is a broad field, so there are many different subtopics you might choose to explore in your research. Implicit attitudes, prosocial behavior, aggression, prejudice, and social perception are just a few areas you might want to consider.

A Word From Verywell

Social psychology topics can provide a great deal of inspiration for further research, whether you are writing a research paper or conducting your own experiment. In addition to some of the social psychology topics above, you can also draw inspiration from your own curiosity about social behavior or examine social issues that you see taking place in the world around you. 

American Psychological Association.  Frequently asked questions about institutional review boards .

Storage D, Charlesworth TES, Banaji M, Cimpian A.  Adults and children implicitly associate brilliance with men more than women .  J Exp Soc Psychol . 2012;90:104020. doi:10.1016/j.jesp.2020.104020

Talamas SN, Mavor KI, Perrett DI. Blinded by beauty: Attractiveness bias and accurate perceptions of academic performance . PLoS ONE . 2016;11(2):e0148284. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0148284

By Kendra Cherry, MSEd Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."

• Essay Topic Generator
• Summary Generator
• Thesis Maker Academic
• Sentence Rephraser
• Read My Paper
• Hypothesis Generator
• Cover Page Generator
• Text Compactor
• Essay Scrambler
• Essay Plagiarism Checker
• Hook Generator
• AI Writing Checker
• Notes Maker
• Overnight Essay Writing
• Topic Ideas
• Writing Tips
• Essay Writing (by Genre)
• Essay Writing (by Topic)

Social Issues Research Paper: Example & Topics Related to Community Problems

What is wrong with social media? What can we do to fight gender discrimination in workplaces? How to address the growing number of hate crimes?

Let’s pore over the sharpest social issues of 2023 and 2024!

A social issue is a problem that impacts both society and particular individuals. Such issues should be addressed and resolved as soon as possible. However, many of them remain acute, and it’s worth discussing. COVID-19 pandemic, vaccines, women’s rights, climate change – these and many other issues are discussed in our article.

• ✍️ Writing Guide

✅ Thesis Statement about Social Issues: Examples

• 🔬 Social Issues Topics
• 📝 Essay Sample

🔗 References

✍️ social issues research – 7 steps to write a paper.

Before we get down to essay topics, let’s do some pre-work!

Follow these steps to get a perfect social issues essay.

Are you wondering how to formulate your thesis statement about social issues? Check out some excellent samples of thesis statements we’ve prepared to guide you!

🔬 Social Issues Research Paper & Project Topics

Below, you will find the whole range of various topics: social media privacy issues essay, health, environment, & others.

Technologies & Social Media Ethical Issues

• Social media safety: are there reasons for users to worry about their privacy?
• Home offices and other trends that came with the digitalization and pandemic.
• Are social media and networking good for society?
• Is social media presence in people’s lives excessive?
• People become more vulnerable and unstable because of social media.
• Phishing attacks: what harm can these bring to a user?
• Are there ways to protect your personal information from being stolen?
• How can unprotected data be used for manipulation and fraud?
• Why do hackers use malicious software?
• What are the consequences of personal data getting into the wrong hands?
• Destructive bots: tell about such a concept as a DDoS attack.
• Should cybersecurity be taught in schools and colleges?
• What are the effects of global digitalization on society?
• Should phones and social media be banned in classrooms?
• What are the signs that we should reconsider our social media use?
• How do social media affect people’s stress, anxiety, and insecurity levels?
• Are there methods to prevent or fight bloggers’ burnout?
• What are the positive impacts of media on society?
• The effects of social media on sleep quality.
• Should social media addiction be considered a mental health disorder?
• Self-esteem issues caused by media are a huge problem among young people.
• How can social media positively affect our well-being?
• Do social media boost or reduce the sense of loneliness?
• How does cryptocurrency change financial awareness in society?
• How can a company manage employees’ productivity levels?
• The new digital reality: how to embrace the culture of work video calls?
• Is it possible to boost Internet speed and efficiency?
• In which spheres can robots and AI replace humans?
• Is automation of business processes profitable for any business?
• Deepfakes undermine our perception of reality.
• How not to overwhelm your business website with excessive plugins?
• What are the benefits of creating online shopping websites?
• Backup recovery: Is it possible to prevent your systems from going down?
• The number of ads on websites and social media platforms is overwhelming.
• How does tech companies’ concentration affect local public infrastructure?
• Is Google making us stupid?
• The extreme diversity of AI programs can be confusing for businesses.
• What are the means of defending your data from phishing, DDoS attacks, and malware?

Social Issues & Environment

• Air is polluted with carbon; how does it affect people?
• Is climate change a real issue that we should think about?
• Frozen planet: what are the consequences of air pollution?
• The burning of fossil fuels provokes CO 2 levels to grow.
• Analysis of the climate change global impact.
• How do deforestation and industrial activities lift the air pollution levels?
• Explore the statistics about the deaths caused by air poisons.
• Does replacing fossil fuels with alternative sources help reduce air pollution?
• Policies and financial issues need to be settled to implement new technologies.
• Tropical forests suffer from severe deforestation: what can we do?
• Are there any ethical methods of overpopulation control?
• How do cattle ranching and plantations destroy forests?
• Forests help keep out CO 2 from the atmosphere, and we need them.
• What are the advantages of nuclear power plants?
• Conservation and restoration: describe the methods of forest recovery.
• Explain how bribery contributes to deforestation and pollution.
• Should we teach children to use sustainable energy?
• Should ivory items be banned for the sake of extinct species?
• Explore and present the statistics concerning extinct species.
• The loss of biodiversity will hit hard if we don’t act now.
• Why do some people doubt that there is global warming?
• Poaching is a huge problem that needs governmental control.
• Explore the different ways of wildlife conservation.
• Analyze different ways of soil degradation: monoculture planting, pesticides, and overgrazing.
• Water suffers the most from overpopulation issues.
• Fighting against poverty can improve critical climate change situations.
• Not just outside: how does indoor air quality affect our health?
• What are the significant contributors to water pollution?
• Explore environmental conditions in your region: water, soil, and air.
• It’s up to you: can you influence climate change by not taking flights?
• Asthma issues grow: how can we prevent our children from the disease?
• Analyze your awareness level and tell about your positive impact on the environment.
• Formaldehyde and other poisonous substances: why are they dangerous?
• Don’t drink it: is the tap water in our households safe to use?
• What will happen if marine phytoplankton is extinct?
• Warmer soil can’t store enormous amounts of CO 2 : what does it mean?
• Nitrous oxide: analyze its impact on the greenhouse effect.
• Water shortage is a real problem that many regions have to face.
• Describe the methods of water conservation and filtration.

Health & Health Care Social Issues

• How has COVID-19 become one of the most burning social issues of 2021?
• Vaccination protests: are they disruptive or sensible?
• Doctors are the primary victims of COVID-19.
• Tell about the importance of providing more proper maternal and child care.
• How has COVID exposed the inadequacy of the whole medical industry?
• Explore the impact of lockdown on mental health in different societies.
• Explore the methods of health care systems reinforcement.
• What is the connection between the pandemic and the high divorce rate?
• The power of unity: why is it vital for countries to hold together?
• Social problems of health and healthcare.
• Should we do vaccines if they haven’t been adequately tested?
• The authorities should address health care inequities and reduce them.
• Classify the most harmful consequences of COVID on health.
• Which social groups suffer from COVID the most?
• What is happening to those who suffer from polio, measles, and other diseases in the meantime?
• Antimicrobial resistance: reveal the concept and elaborate on its importance.
• Reveal the essence of such a concept as “global health.”
• Can attending public health forums help raise awareness in society?
• Nations should look for opportunities to avoid health-threatening dangerous situations.
• How do environmental factors stimulate disease spreading?
• Authorities should enhance control over migration processes for the sake of safety.
• Inter-ethnic conflicts should be addressed, for they damage critical health infrastructure.
• The population needs to become more educated in terms of non-communicable diseases.
• How to make quality care more affordable in the United States?
• People should realize and change their lifestyles to prevent non-communicable diseases.
• Compare and contrast statistics concerning NCD’s death rate in wealthy and poor societies.
• Explore the connection between animal health and human well-being.
• The food supply chain suffers a lot from agriculture, pesticides, and improper waste management.
• Veterinary medicine should be considered on a more advanced level.
• Classify the opportunities people have to make a positive impact on global health.
• What are the most common sexually transmitted infections in the US?
• Small contributions matter: how can you act for the sake of global health?
• E-cigarettes have become a new threat to generation Z’s health.
• Should songs with substance abuse romanticization be banned?
• HIV/AIDS remains inappropriate to discuss, and we should change it.
• Explore the dementia issue among young people.
• While the COVID is raging, influenza and pneumonia remain harmful and contagious diseases.

Poverty, Homelessness, & Social Equity Issues

• How has COVID-19 shown huge disparities between countries and societies?
• Explore the correlation between homelessness and poverty.
• Why shouldn’t poverty always be viewed as a drawback for individuals?
• What roles do poverty and hunger play in international relations?
• Does supporting poverty victims make an issue worse?
• We shouldn’t consider poverty a moral failure.
• Poverty is a societal issue: inequity and disparities are the significant reasons.
• What are the causes of poverty?
• Is it possible to overcome poverty due to the lack of work?
• Will poverty be fought if the wages become higher?
• How is discrimination connected with low life quality?
• Social development and poverty reduction.
• Health and poverty: why do low-income families demand more health care resources?
• Can a person grow up properly in inadequate housing and with poor nutrition?
• Why do wealthy people become wealthier and poor ones – poorer?
• Describe global poverty.
• How do housing affordability issues bring family problems?
• Gender and wealth: how do gender prejudices affect financial well-being?
• Race and wealth: how do racial prejudices influence financial well-being?
• The concept of the minimum wage: explore and reveal it.
• How to provide fresh food for low-income families?
• What economic conditions can make the population wealthier?
• Wages and prices go up: is there a correlation between them?
• Is it possible to reduce financial insecurities in times of crisis?
• Should we care about income inequality?
• Classify the countries with the highest unemployment rate.
• Classify the barriers that prevent people from getting employed.
• Lack of work experience shouldn’t be an obstacle to getting a job.
• How can we change the fact that poor employment history decreases job opportunities?
• The rights of homeless people in the US.
• Can a formerly homeless individual become a full society member?
• Reveal the concept of hiring discrimination.
• Classify the countries with the highest homelessness rate.
• What is the situation with homelessness in America?
• Chronically homeless individuals: why do some people get back to homelessness?
• Explore the social forecast in terms of the global poverty rate in the future.
• Sheltered and unsheltered homelessness: expose the essence of these phenomena.
• Is criminalizing homelessness an excellent strategy to fight it?
• The relation of poverty and food security.
• Are there ways to make housing more affordable?
• Why is child hunger an acute social issue in America?
• Expose the connection between poverty and a criminal lifestyle.
• How does poverty correlate with chronic conditions?
• They know the secret: what are the wealthiest countries and why?

Migration & Overpopulation

• Migration: a natural process or danger?
• Describe how COVID-19 affected global migration processes.
• How can conditions in refugee camps be improved?
• Humanitarian protection for immigrants suffered a lot due to the pandemic.
• How has the BLM movement drawn attention to immigrant rights?
• The pandemic has deepened inconveniences for immigrant families.
• How do transit countries suffer from pandemic consequences?
• What are the countries with the most advanced anti-migrant rhetoric?
• What long-term consequences do global restrictions have on migration processes?
• Does the pandemic have any positive influence on migration?
• Xenophobic narratives towards migrants from Africa in the US.
• Migrant workers should obtain more protection due to the pandemic risks.
• Unsanitary conditions: the reasons that made refugees vulnerable to COVID-19.
• Is it fair that immigrant children don’t have proper access to quality education?
• Migrant labor should be regulated more responsibly.
• We should acknowledge the immigrants’ importance in terms of the workforce.
• Explore the psychological reasons for violence against refugees.
• Violence and instability in refugee camps: what can be done?
• Back home: how does chaos at the borders complicate migration processes?
• Are there ways to stop illegal migration?
• Describe what role natural disasters have in migration.
• International colonies should receive more consideration from the authorities.
• The negative attitude towards migration should be eliminated in society.
• Classify the reasons for migration: human rights violations, natural disasters, etc.
• Illegal migration is one of the reasons for economic disruption.
• Explore migration out of wish and out of necessity.
• Expose the essence of such concepts as a “migrant” and “refugee.”
• How can safety be provided to immigrants and refugees?
• What can be done to change hostility towards immigrants?
• Does the crime rate have anything to do with a loose migration policy?
• We all are humans: how can we reach peace between migrants and locals?
• Prejudices or facts: do refugees undermine society’s well-being?
• What impact does illegal immigration have on the education system?
• Explore the connection between migration and overpopulation.
• What is overpopulation, and how can it be addressed?
• Overpopulation has a devastating impact on the global environment.

Human Rights

• Explore the tragic statistics on human rights violations in Russia.
• Classify the countries where human rights are violated to an extended degree.
• What are the fundamental human rights that each person should have?
• The concept of human rights: define its meaning and origins.
• Classify economic, cultural, and social rights.
• Should all people have equal freedom of opinion and expression?
• Bring up the history of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
• Presumption of innocence: is it an archaic human rights concept?
• Classify civil and political rights.
• What is international human rights law?
• Tell about all human rights conventions being adopted since the 20th century.
• Does Human Rights Council cope with its responsibilities?
• The sexual exploitation of children is one of the most terrible human rights violations.
• Research the most acute human rights social issues in America in 2023.
• Do authorities violate human rights by introducing and supporting the death penalty?
• Is mandatory military service a human rights violation?
• Not all people should have equal access to political and social affairs.
• What is lacking in the laws regulating the rights of people with disabilities?
• Plants and factory owners violate our rights to environmentally safe management.
• Freedom of expression: how can dangerous and hateful views be regulated?
• LGBTQ+ rights: how has the situation changed in the USA?
• Freedom of religion and fate: what can be done to provide it in intolerant countries?
• Classify the signs that can indicate your rights are being neglected.
• Are migrants’ human rights sufficiently acknowledged globally?
• How have women’s rights changed over the last two centuries?
• The Gulag in Soviet Russia: tell about the human rights violation in the USSR.
• Far from being perfect: how did Peng Shuai case show that women’s rights are still an issue to work on?
• Holocaust: is it better to remember or forget?
• What are the countries with the most respected human rights?
• Guantanamo and the like: why is human rights violation so common in prisons?
• Is it possible to save girls and women from an occupied Afghanistan?

Discrimination (Racial, Gender, Age, etc.)

• Is racial discrimination an overrated social issue?
• Fat-shaming: why do people care so much about someone else’s weight?
• Discrimination of people with disabilities: sexual violence, stigma, and lack of access to necessary resources.
• Discrimination of any kind is a severe obstacle in combating poverty.
• To eliminate discrimination, we should address the needs of the most vulnerable groups.
• A proper methodology for indicating marginalized groups is a must.
• Explore the problem of discrimination against people of age.
• Should ingenious people in each country be given more respect?
• How to teach people to stop being biased against other ethnicities?
• What is the point of discrimination based on marital status?
• It’s a huge social issue that same-sex marriages aren’t accepted globally.
• Social status shouldn’t be a ground for discrimination.
• Why doesn’t the globalization process reduce the levels of discrimination?
• How to stop victimizing people by their economic position?
• How does ageism reveal itself in everyday life?
• How can society ease the struggle of transgender people?
• Big corporations discriminate employees based on age.
• We all are good enough and worthy regardless of age, appearance, orientation, or social status.
• Explore the difficulties that people with albinism face.
• Young parents shouldn’t be judged for being who they are.
• Is there any chance to eliminate discrimination against people with HIV status?
• Explore the struggles of the Black LGBTQ+ community.
• Analyze the critical situation concerning sex workers’ discrimination.
• Childfree people deserve to be recognized and left alone.
• Discover the most discriminated ethnicities in Europe.
• How are people with disabilities being victimized even in developed countries?
• It is unlawful for companies to be biased against employees for their religion.
• Explore the issue of sexual harassment as a part of gender discrimination.
• National origin discrimination: define the concept and elaborate on it.
• Is it fair to have a bias against pregnant women regarding job opportunities?
• The toxic rhetoric of politicians should be addressed immediately.
• Why is the LGBTQ+ community one of the most discriminated groups in Russia?
• Children should be taught to embrace diversity since nursery school.
• Explore the discrimination issues in Middle Asia.

Social Issues in Criminal Justice

• Explore and classify the reasons for juvenile delinquency.
• Should marijuana-related sentences be so strict?
• Tortures and prisons: can this tandem be ever destroyed?
• Why does the justice system fail to cope with human trafficking?
• Should criminals in jails be provided with good nourishment and other conditions?
• Explore the changes in drug policy of a particular country.
• Should sentences for synthetic drug trafficking be more severe than for murders?
• Police brutality: analyze the case of George Floyd and its consequences.
• Is it possible that cannabis will be legalized in every state in the future?
• Kids in jails: do we need juvenile detention reform?
• Research how states’ authorities are reconsidering the approach to civil rights.
• What are the beneficial sides of marijuana legalization?
• How were punishment trends changing over the last 20 years in the US?
• Analyze the statistics: what are the states with the lowest crime rate?
• Should the death penalty be banned or accepted in all states?
• Police officers should be tested more thoroughly and frequently.
• Police violence or a mistake: explore the different views on Breonna Taylor’s case.
• How did technologies improve the legislation system and police work?
• Vulnerability to justice: how to avoid unjust conviction?
• Prison buildup: do we need more prisons or fewer criminals?
• Can analyses of the prison population help reduce the crime rate in the long run?
• People should protest more actively against police brutality.
• Police departments should provide advanced psychological assistance to their workers.
• Racial discrimination prevents the justice system from being efficient.
• Explore the lack in the justice system.
• Are there any reasonable and peaceful measures against police brutality?
• Recidivism issue: released criminals should be under stricter control.
• Has the BLM movement contributed to justice reform?
• More significant amounts of state budgets should be put into preventing violence.
• How do different states cope with justice reform?
• Police should be prohibited from using force against civilians.
• Social injustice and racial prejudices in drug enforcement.

Research Topics on Social Issues in America

Explore these topics on social issues in America.

• Obesity among young people: how to fight it?  
• Why can’t body positivity be an excuse for obesity? 
• Disney actors and pop singers: should children choose them as role models? 
• Should ingenious people in the USA obtain more human rights? 
• Electroconvulsive therapy turned out to be a promising treatment for severe depression. Is it ethical?  
• Should social disparity be an obstacle the access to higher education? 
• The political system in the USA is going through tough times. 
• Should higher education in the USA become more affordable?  
• Authorities should resolve social issues instead of equipping the army. 
• What are the difficulties Hispanic Americans face?   
• The government should support the rise of psychedelic retreats. 
• PTSD spread among military men is an acute issue that needs to be addressed.  
• Explore the issue of the San Francisco homeless crisis. 
• Instagram has a strong negative impact on teens: how to protect them? 
• Current problems and weaknesses of education in the US.   
• How to deal with the dramatic death rate growth during the pandemic? 
• Describe the values of a modern American family.   
• Should schoolchildren be allowed to miss classes for mental health reasons? 
• What can be learned from the case of Britney Spears’ conservatorship? 
• What are the outcomes of teenage pregnancy?   
• Why do veterans look for support for psychedelic drug decriminalization? 
• How to nurture sympathy and kindness in new generation representatives? 
• What is the situation with gun crimes in the USA?   
• Body shaming has many faces: what is wrong with fitness culture? 
• Is it safe to use ketamine as a depression treatment?  
• How does adult acne prevent people from being socially active? 
• Explore the issue of racial disparity in schizophrenia diagnoses in nursing homes.  
• How have hate crimes facilitated Asian Americans to undergo therapy during a pandemic? 
• Are Instagram and TikTok threatening American teens’ well-being? 
• What measures can be taken to protect citizens from personal data exposure? 
• Should the government take Meta under stricter control? 
• More mentally ill people become suicide victims: what can be done?  
• Drug abuse in nursing homes: what do we know about it? 
• Female refugees in America become victims of abuse and discrimination. 
• Why is gun violence still an unresolved problem after so many precedents?  
• Are Generation Z representatives able to be responsible for the country’s future? 
• Hate crimes against Asian Americans: we need to address the issue. 
• Health affordability is one of the most burning issues in today’s America.  
• Is it reasonable to let in the country more immigrants? 
• Why is religious freedom in the USA problematic? 
• What impact does media have on society? 
• The declining marriage rate in America: is it a threat to society? 
• The higher education costs grow, but the quality decreases. 
• What are the benefits of having sex education in school?   
• It is essential to dispel environmental myths and address real climate issues. 
• Explore the state budget-related issues in the USA. 
• How do video games affect children?   
• The welfare system in America doesn’t work correctly for the poor. 
• Is voter fraud a big problem in the USA? 
• Tell about the agricultural crisis in rural areas of the USA. 
• How to prevent and manage work stress?   
• Parental care: do young parents in America receive sufficient support? 
• Who should be role models for American teenagers? 
• How can American citizens contribute to safeguarding electoral processes?  
• What are the most critical environmental issues in the USA? 
• The government should provide affordable housing for low-income families. 

Research Topics Related to Community Problems

If you are looking for a qualitative or quantitative research title about social issues for your essay, check out some ideas below!

• The role of social support networks in combating homelessness.
• Veterans’ barriers to accessing mental health services.
• How does war influence the level of terrorism in society?
• Global unemployment and methods of reducing it.
• The effectiveness of legal measures in addressing domestic violence cases.
• Assessment of understanding and support for transgender people’s rights.
• The prevalence and causes of teenage pregnancy.
• What are the benefits and pitfalls of abortion legalization?
• The experience of living with HIV/AIDS in vulnerable populations.
• How does modern technology promote social isolation?
• The main causes of war between nations in the 21st century.
• Attitudes and beliefs of young people about immigration.
• The experiences of individuals with disabilities in the workplace.
• The possible drawbacks of gender and racial stereotyping.
• What factors affect the level of crime in society?

Other Social Issues Essay Topics

• Social Issues: The Uses of Global Poverty .
• Child Poverty in Canada Problem Analysis .
• Gender Inequality in the Workplace and Career .
• Homelessness and Poverty in the United States .
• Media Violence: Myths and Facts .
• The Concept of Animal Rights and Their Violation .
• Culture and Representations: Why Culture and Representation Matter .
• Social Problem, Its Components and Stages .
• The Maker Movement in Education: Achievements and Prospects .
• Gangs and Community-Based Organizations in Chicago .
• How Might Child Neglect Affect a Child’s Self-Esteem in Adulthood .
• Globalization Drives Inequality: Liberalist and Structuralist Perspectives .
• Degrees of Inequality in the UK .
• Environmental Ethics: the Case for Animal Rights .
• The Civil Rights Movement .
• Racial Discrimination Practices in Recruitment and Selection .
• American Civil Rights Movement Origins and Development .
• Gangs and Social Learning Theory Relationship .
• Social Institution of Family in the USA .
• Immigration Policies Affecting the Success of Immigrants in United States and Canada .
• Domestic Violence Issue and the Ways to Solve It .
• Corporate Social Responsibility: Business Benefits .
• Mental Health Issue and the Role of Social Worker .
• Challenges Immigrants Face in the USA .
• Women in Sports: Main Challenges .
• Human Trafficking, Its History and Statistics .
• Hate Crimes Toward Minorities in the United States .
• American Culture Reflection in Sport .
• Cinemas and Culture. Discussion of Readings and Films .
• Television Violence and Children’s Aggressiveness .
• Ethnic Groups and Discrimination .
• War on Drugs: Reducing and Defining the Trade of Illegal Drugs .
• Muslim Women’s Representation in American Newspapers .
• Family Support and Intervention in Substance Abuse Among Adolescents .
• Social Changes and Trends .
• Abortion Ethics: Right-to-Life vs. Pro-Choice .
• The Social Work: Ecological Perspective .
• Should Euthanasia Be Legal in Some Countries and Why?
• Teenage Sex: The Importance of Sex Education .
• A Family System and Social Care Service Users .

📝 Sample – Social Injustice Essay

Here you can find an essay sample on one of the sharp social issues. Read this sample and complete your paper assignment!

Recent studies have shown that teens who are active social media users are more prone to depression and other mental health disorders. In comparison to those who use social media less, the former ones have higher rates of depression. [ place for statistical evidence .] Even without statistical data, it has been known that social media abuse is critical to mental state. The first reason is the seeming success bloggers display on their Instagram pages. It is difficult for an adult to avoid constant comparisons, but it’s even more challenging for teenagers. Their fragile psyches tend to be extremely sensitive and perceptive to the content. The feeling of being “not good enough” brings youngsters down, causing depressive conditions. The other thing is perfect body images that teens see on the influencers’ and models’ pages. They start to look at their bodies critically. At the same time, they fail to understand that a perfect picture is just a part of modeling. We all are humans with flaws in real life, and it is okay. However, the trend for real pictures without filters and Instagram masks is spreading. Besides, it has also become more popular to share one’s genuine feelings and emotions on Instagram without trying to conceal the flaws and struggles of one’s life. Perhaps, the trend for sincerity will grow into something bigger, and social media’s negative impact on mental health will recede.

If you have any questions or want to receive any kind of student assistance, feel free to approach our team 24/7.

• What Is a Social Problem? – University of Minnesota
• Social Issues – Contemporary Issues – LibGuides at University of California Merced
• Social Issues – The Brookings Institution
• Social Issues | Council on Foreign Relations
• Social Issues and Community Interactions | Waste Incineration and Public Health | The National Academies Press
• Social Issue Articles, Research, & Case Studies – HBS Working Knowledge
• Doing Research on Social Problems & Social Problems
• Social Issues | Databases Explored from Gale

• Browse All Articles
• Newsletter Sign-Up

SocialIssues →

No results found in working knowledge.

• Were any results found in one of the other content buckets on the left?
• Try removing some search filters.
• Use different search filters.

Social Problems, SOC3310: More Topics to Choose From...

• Research Paper Resources
• Finding Books
• More Topics to Choose From...
• Web Resources

Modern Social Problems

Listed below are examples of contemporary social problems.  To make your topic manageable, narrow your topic or focus as you locate information.

• Affirmative Action
• Affordable Care Act (Obamacare)
• Ageism / Age Discrimination
• Airport Screening Procedures
• Airport Security
• Animal Rights
• Anorexia Nervosa
• Anti-Muslim Discrimination
• Binge Drinking
• Birth Control
• Bulimia Nervosa
• Campus Crime
• Capital Punishment / Death Penalty
• Chemical Weapons
• Child Labor
• Corporate Downsizing
• Disaster Relief
• Domestic Violence
• Drinking and Driving
• Driving While Black
• Drug Abuse / Drug Addiction
• Eating Disorders
• Embryonic Stem Cell Research
• Environmental Pollution
• Environmental Racism
• Euthanasia / Assisted Suicide
• Excessive Force By Law Enforcement
• Felony Disenfranchisement
• Gang Violence
• Genetic Engineering
• Gentrification
• Global Warming
• Gun Control
• Hate Crimes
• Health Care Disparities
• Health Care Reform
• Home Forclosures
• Homelessness
• Honor Killings
• Human Trafficking
• Identify Theft
• Illegal Immigration
• Legalization of Marijuana
• Legalization of Prostitution
• Mall Shootings
• Mass Murder
• Meth Labs (Methamphetamine Laboratories)
• Militarization of Police
• Minimum Wage
• National Rifle Association
• Obamacare (Affordable Care Act)
• Organ and Body Donation
• Outsourcing Jobs
• Police Brutality
• Police Militarization
• Pornography
• Prayer in Schools
• Racial Disparities in Health Care
• Racial Disparities in Sentencing
• Racial Profiling
• Retail Profiling
• Recycling and Conservation
• Right to Work
• Same-Sex Marriage
• Sexual Harassment
• Shopping While Black
• Single Parenting
• Smoking / Tobacco Use
• Social Networking and Privacy
• Stand Your Ground Laws
• Steroid Use in Sports
• Stereotyping
• Sweat Shops
• Teen Pregnancy
• Terrorism 
• Texting While Driving
• Texting While Walking
• Unemployment
• Union Busting
• Vigilantism
• Violence in Schools
• Violence in Music Videos
• Violence in Video Games
• Voter Disenfranchisement
• Voting Rights Restrictions
• << Previous: Finding Books
• Next: Statistics >>
• Last Updated: Sep 28, 2023 10:12 AM
• URL: https://library.cbc.edu/soc3310

• USC Libraries
• Research Guides

Organizing Your Social Sciences Research Paper

• 1. Choosing a Research Problem
• Purpose of Guide
• Design Flaws to Avoid
• Independent and Dependent Variables
• Glossary of Research Terms
• Reading Research Effectively
• Narrowing a Topic Idea
• Broadening a Topic Idea
• Extending the Timeliness of a Topic Idea
• Academic Writing Style
• Applying Critical Thinking
• Choosing a Title
• Making an Outline
• Paragraph Development
• Research Process Video Series
• Executive Summary
• The C.A.R.S. Model
• Background Information
• The Research Problem/Question
• Theoretical Framework
• Citation Tracking
• Content Alert Services
• Evaluating Sources
• Primary Sources
• Secondary Sources
• Tiertiary Sources
• Scholarly vs. Popular Publications
• Qualitative Methods
• Quantitative Methods
• Insiderness
• Using Non-Textual Elements
• Limitations of the Study
• Common Grammar Mistakes
• Writing Concisely
• Avoiding Plagiarism
• Footnotes or Endnotes?
• Further Readings
• Generative AI and Writing
• USC Libraries Tutorials and Other Guides
• Bibliography

In the social and behavioral sciences, the subject of analysis is most often framed as a problem that must be researched in order to obtain a greater understanding, formulate a set of solutions or recommended courses of action, and/or develop a better approach to practice. The research problem, therefore, is the main organizing principle guiding the analysis of your research. The problem under investigation establishes an occasion for writing and a focus that governs what you want to say. It represents the core subject matter of scholarly communication and the means by which scholars arrive at other topics of conversation and the discovery of new knowledge and understanding.

Alvesson, Mats and Jörgen Sandberg. Constructing Research Questions: Doing Interesting Research . London: Sage, 2013; Jacobs, Ronald L. “Developing a Dissertation Research Problem: A Guide for Doctoral Students in Human Resource Development and Adult Education.” New Horizons in Adult Education and Human Resource Development 25 (Summer 2013): 103-117; Chapter 1: Research and the Research Problem. Nicholas Walliman . Your Research Project: Designing and Planning Your Work . 3rd edition. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage Publications, 2011.

Choosing a Research Problem / How to Begin

Do not assume that identifying a research problem to investigate will be a quick and easy task! You should be thinking about it during the beginning of the course. There are generally three ways you are asked to write about a research problem : 1) your professor provides you with a general topic from which you study a particular aspect; 2) your professor provides you with a list of possible topics to study and you choose a topic from that list; or, 3) your professor leaves it up to you to choose a topic and you only have to obtain permission to write about it before beginning your investigation. Here are some strategies for getting started for each scenario.

I.  How To Begin:  You are given the topic to write about

Step 1 : Identify concepts and terms that make up the topic statement . For example, your professor wants the class to focus on the following research problem: “Is the European Union a credible security actor with the capacity to contribute to confronting global terrorism?" The main concepts in this problem are: European Union, security, global terrorism, credibility [ hint : focus on identifying proper nouns, nouns or noun phrases, and action verbs in the assignment description]. Step 2 : Review related literature to help refine how you will approach examining the topic and finding a way to analyze it . You can begin by doing any or all of the following: reading through background information from materials listed in your course syllabus; searching the USC Libraries Catalog to find a recent book on the topic and, if appropriate, more specialized works about the topic; conducting a preliminary review of the research literature using multidisciplinary databases such as ProQuest or subject-specific databases from the " By Subject Area " drop down menu located above the list of databases.

Choose the advanced search option in the database and enter into each search box the main concept terms you developed in Step 1. Also consider using their synonyms to retrieve additional relevant records. This will help you refine and frame the scope of the research problem. You will likely need to do this several times before you can finalize how to approach writing about the topic. NOTE : Always review the references from your most relevant research results cited by the authors in footnotes, endnotes, or a bibliography to locate related research on your topic. This is a good strategy for identifying important prior research about the topic because titles that are repeatedly cited indicate their significance in laying a foundation for understanding the problem. However, if you’re having trouble at this point locating relevant research literature, ask a librarian for help!

ANOTHER NOTE :  If you find an article from a database that's particularly helpful, paste it into Google Scholar , placing the title of the article in quotes. If the article record appears, look for a "cited by" reference followed by a number [e.g., C ited by 37] just below the record. This link indicates how many times other scholars have subsequently cited that article in their own research since it was first published. This is an effective strategy for identifying more current, related research on your topic. Finding additional cited by references from your original list of cited by references helps you navigate through the literature and, by so doing, understand the evolution of thought around a particular research problem. Step 3 : Since social science research papers are generally designed to encourage you to develop your own ideas and arguments, look for sources that can help broaden, modify, or strengthen your initial thoughts and arguments. For example, if you decide to argue that the European Union is inadequately prepared to take on responsibilities for broader global security because of the debt crisis in many EU countries, then focus on identifying sources that support as well as refute this position. From the advanced search option in ProQuest , a sample search would use "European Union" in one search box, "global security" in the second search box, and adding a third search box to include "debt crisis."

There are least four appropriate roles your related literature plays in helping you formulate how to begin your analysis :

• Sources of criticism -- frequently, you'll find yourself reading materials that are relevant to your chosen topic, but you disagree with the author's position. Therefore, one way that you can use a source is to describe the counter-argument, provide evidence from your own review of the literature as to why the prevailing argument is unsatisfactory, and to discuss how your approach is more appropriate based upon your interpretation of the evidence.
• Sources of new ideas -- while a general goal in writing college research papers in the social sciences is to examine a research problem with some basic idea of what position you'd like to take and on what basis you'd like to defend your position, it is certainly acceptable [and often encouraged] to read the literature and extend, modify, and refine your own position in light of the ideas proposed by others. Just make sure that you cite the sources !
• Sources for historical context -- another role your related literature plays in formulating how to begin your analysis is to place issues and events in proper historical context. This can help to demonstrate familiarity with developments in relevant scholarship about your topic, provide a means of comparing historical versus contemporary issues and events, and identifying key people, places, and events that had an important role related to the research problem. Given its archival journal coverage, a good multidisciplnary database to use in this case is JSTOR .
• Sources of interdisciplinary insight -- an advantage of using databases like ProQuest to begin exploring your topic is that it covers publications from a variety of different disciplines. Another way to formulate how to study the topic is to look at it from different disciplinary perspectives. If the topic concerns immigration reform, for example, ask yourself, how do studies from sociological journals found by searching ProQuest vary in their analysis from those in political science journals. A goal in reviewing related literature is to provide a means of approaching a topic from multiple perspectives rather than the perspective offered from just one discipline.

NOTE : Remember to keep careful notes at every stage or utilize a citation management system like EndNotes or RefWorks . You may think you'll remember what you have searched and where you found things, but it’s easy to forget or get confused. Most databases have a search history feature that allows you to go back and see what searches you conducted previously as long as you haven't closed your session. If you start over, that history could be deleted.

Step 4 : Assuming you have done an effective job of synthesizing and thinking about the results of your initial search for related literature, you're ready to prepare a detailed outline for your paper that lays the foundation for a more in-depth and focused review of relevant research literature [after consulting with a librarian, if needed!]. How will you know you haven't done an effective job of synthesizing and thinking about the results of our initial search for related literature? A good indication is that you start composing the outline and gaps appear in how you want to approach the study. This indicates the need to gather further background information and analysis about the research problem.

II.  How To Begin:  You are provided a list of possible topics to choose from Step 1 : I know what you’re thinking--which topic on this list will be the easiest to find the most information on? An effective instructor would never include a topic that is so obscure or complex that no research is available to examine and from which to design an effective study. Therefore, don't approach a list of possible topics to study from the perspective of trying to identify the path of least resistance; choose a topic that you find interesting in some way, that is controversial and that you have a strong opinion about, that has some personal meaning for you, or relates to your major or a minor. You're going to be working on the topic for quite some time, so choose one that you find interesting and engaging or that motivates you to take a position. Embrace the opportunity to learn something new! Once you’ve settled on a topic of interest from the list provided by your professor, follow Steps 1 - 4 listed above to further develop it into a research paper.

NOTE : It’s ok to review related literature to help refine how you will approach analyzing a topic, and then discover that the topic isn’t all that interesting to you. In that case, choose a different topic from the list. Just don’t wait too long to make a switch and, of course, be sure to inform your professor that you are changing your topic.

III.  How To Begin:  Your professor leaves it up to you to choose a topic

Step 1 : Under this scenario, the key process is turning an idea or general thought into a topic that can be configured into a research problem. When given an assignment where you choose the topic, don't begin by thinking about what to write about, but rather, ask yourself the question, "What do I want to understand or learn about?" Treat an open-ended research assignment as an opportunity to gain new knowledge about something that's important or exciting to you in the context of the overall subject of the course.

Step 2 : If you lack ideas, or wish to gain focus, try any or all of the following strategies:

• Review your course readings, particularly the suggested readings, for topic ideas. Don't just review what you've already read, but jump ahead in the syllabus to readings that have not been covered yet.
• Search the USC Libraries Catalog for a recently published book and, if appropriate, more specialized works related to the discipline area of the course [e.g., for the course SOCI 335: Society and Population, search for books on "population and society" or "population and social impact"]. Reviewing the contents of a book about your area of interest can give you insight into what conversations scholars are having about the topic and, thus, how you might want to contribute your own ideas to these conversations through the research paper you write for the class.
• Browse through some current scholarly [a.k.a., academic, peer reviewed] journals in your subject discipline. Even if most of the articles are not relevant, you can skim through the contents quickly. You only need one to be the spark that begins the process of wanting to learn more about a topic. Consult with a librarian and/or your professor about what constitutes the core journals within the subject area of the writing assignment.
• Think about essays you have written for other courses you have taken or academic lectures and programs you have attended outside of class. Thinking back, ask yourself why did you want to take this class or attend this event? What interested you the most? What would you like to know more about? Place this question in the context of the current course assignment. Note that this strategy also applies to anything you've watched on TV or has been shared on social media.
• Search online news media sources, such as CNN , the Los Angeles Times , Huffington Post , MSNBC , Fox News , or Newsweek , to see if your idea has been covered by the media. Use this coverage to refine your idea into something that you'd like to investigate further, but in a more deliberate, scholarly way in relation to a particular problem that needs to be researched.

Step 3 : To build upon your initial idea, use the suggestions under this tab to help narrow , broaden , or increase the timeliness of your idea so you can write it out as a research problem.

Once you are comfortable with having turned your idea into a research problem, follow Steps 1 - 4 listed in Part I above to further develop it into an outline for a research paper.

Alderman, Jim. "Choosing a Research Topic." Beginning Library and Information Systems Strategies. Paper 17. Jacksonville, FL: University of North Florida Digital Commons, 2014; Alvesson, Mats and Jörgen Sandberg. Constructing Research Questions: Doing Interesting Research . London: Sage, 2013; Chapter 2: Choosing a Research Topic. Adrian R. Eley. Becoming a Successful Early Career Researcher . New York: Routledge, 2012; Answering the Question. Academic Skills Centre. University of Canberra; Brainstorming. Department of English Writing Guide. George Mason University; Brainstorming. The Writing Center. University of North Carolina; Chapter 1: Research and the Research Problem. Nicholas Walliman . Your Research Project: Designing and Planning Your Work . 3rd edition. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage Publications, 2011; Choosing a Topic. The Writing Lab and The OWL. Purdue University;  Mullaney, Thomas S. and Christopher Rea. Where Research Begins: Choosing a Research Project That Matters to You (and the World) . Chicago, IL: University of Chicago Press, 2022; Coming Up With Your Topic. Institute for Writing Rhetoric. Dartmouth College; How To Write a Thesis Statement. Writing Tutorial Services, Center for Innovative Teaching and Learning. Indiana University; Identify Your Question. Start Your Research. University Library, University of California, Santa Cruz; The Process of Writing a Research Paper. Department of History. Trent University; Trochim, William M.K. Problem Formulation. Research Methods Knowledge Base. 2006.

Resources for Identifying a Topic

Resources for Identifying a Research Problem

If you are having difficulty identifying a topic to study or need basic background information, the following web resources and databases can be useful:

• CQ Researcher -- a collection of single-themed public policy reports that provide an overview of an issue. Each report includes background information, an assessment of the current policy situation, statistical tables and maps, pro/con statements from representatives of opposing positions, and a bibliography of key sources.
• New York Times Topics -- each topic page collects news articles, reference and archival information, photos, graphics, audio and video files. Content is available without charge on articles going back to 1981.
• Opposing Viewpoints In Context -- an online resource covering a wide range of social issues from a variety of perspectives. The database contains a media-rich collection of materials, including pro/con viewpoint essays, topic overviews, primary source materials, biographies of social activists and reformers, journal articles, statistical tables, charts and graphs, images, videos, and podcasts.
• Policy Commons -- platform for objective, fact-based research from the world’s leading policy experts, nonpartisan think tanks, and intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations. The database provides advanced searching across millions of pages of books, articles, working papers, reports, policy briefs, data sets, tables, charts, media, case studies, and statistical publications, including archived reports from more than 200 defunct think tanks. Coverage is international in scope.

Descriptions of resources are adapted or quoted from vendor websites.

Writing Tip

Not Finding Anything on Your Topic? Ask a Librarian!

Don't assume or jump to the conclusion that your topic is too narrowly defined or obscure just because your initial search has failed to identify relevant research. Librarians are experts in locating and critically assessing information and how it is organized. This knowledge will help you develop strategies for analyzing existing knowledge in new ways. Therefore, always consult with a librarian before you consider giving up on finding information about the topic you want to investigate. If there isn't a lot of information about your topic, a librarian can help you identify a closely related topic that you can study. Use the Ask-A-Librarian link above to identify a librarian in your subject area.

Another Writing Tip

Don't be a Martyr!

In thinking about what to study, don't adopt the mindset of pursuing an esoteric or overly complicated topic just to impress your professor but that, in reality, does not have any real interest to you. Choose a topic that is challenging but that has at least some interest to you or that you care about. Obviously, this is easier for courses within your major, but even for those nasty prerequisite classes that you must take in order to graduate [and that provide an additional tuition revenue for the university], try to apply issues associated with your major to the general topic given to you. For example, if you are an international relations major taking a GE philosophy class where the assignment asks you to apply the question of "what is truth" to some aspect of life, you could choose to study how government leaders attempt to shape truth through the use of nationalistic propaganda.

Still Another Writing Tip

A Research Problem is Not a Thesis Statement

A thesis statement and a research problem are two different parts of the introduction section of your paper. The thesis statement succinctly describes in one or two sentences, usually in the last paragraph of the introduction, what position you have reached about a topic. It includes an assertion that requires evidence and support along with your opinion or argument about what you are researching. There are three general types of thesis statements: analytical statements that break down and evaluate the topic; argumentative statements that make a claim about the topic and defend that claim; and, expository statements that present facts and research about the topic. Each are intended to set forth a claim that you will seek to validate through the research you describe in your paper.

Before the thesis statement, your introduction must include a description of a problem that describes either a key area of concern, a condition to be improved upon, a difficulty to be eliminated, or a troubling issue that exists . The research problem describes something that can be empirically verified and measured; it is often followed by a set of questions that underpin how you plan to approach investigating that problem. In short, the thesis statement states your opinion or argument about the research problem and summarizes how you plan to address it.

Tips and Examples for Writing Thesis Statements. The Writing Lab and The OWL. Purdue University; Write a Strong Thesis Statement! The Writing Center, University of Evansville; Thesis Statements. The Writing Center. University of North Carolina; Tutorial #26: Thesis Statements and Topic Sentences. Writing Center, College of San Mateo; Creswell,  John W. and J. David Creswell. Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches . 5th edition. Thousand Oaks, CA: SAGE Publications, 2017.

• << Previous: Glossary of Research Terms
• Next: Reading Research Effectively >>
• Last Updated: Apr 29, 2024 1:49 PM
• URL: https://libguides.usc.edu/writingguide

Choose Your Test

Sat / act prep online guides and tips, 113 great research paper topics.

General Education

One of the hardest parts of writing a research paper can be just finding a good topic to write about. Fortunately we've done the hard work for you and have compiled a list of 113 interesting research paper topics. They've been organized into ten categories and cover a wide range of subjects so you can easily find the best topic for you.

In addition to the list of good research topics, we've included advice on what makes a good research paper topic and how you can use your topic to start writing a great paper.

What Makes a Good Research Paper Topic?

Not all research paper topics are created equal, and you want to make sure you choose a great topic before you start writing. Below are the three most important factors to consider to make sure you choose the best research paper topics.

#1: It's Something You're Interested In

A paper is always easier to write if you're interested in the topic, and you'll be more motivated to do in-depth research and write a paper that really covers the entire subject. Even if a certain research paper topic is getting a lot of buzz right now or other people seem interested in writing about it, don't feel tempted to make it your topic unless you genuinely have some sort of interest in it as well.

#2: There's Enough Information to Write a Paper

Even if you come up with the absolute best research paper topic and you're so excited to write about it, you won't be able to produce a good paper if there isn't enough research about the topic. This can happen for very specific or specialized topics, as well as topics that are too new to have enough research done on them at the moment. Easy research paper topics will always be topics with enough information to write a full-length paper.

Trying to write a research paper on a topic that doesn't have much research on it is incredibly hard, so before you decide on a topic, do a bit of preliminary searching and make sure you'll have all the information you need to write your paper.

#3: It Fits Your Teacher's Guidelines

Don't get so carried away looking at lists of research paper topics that you forget any requirements or restrictions your teacher may have put on research topic ideas. If you're writing a research paper on a health-related topic, deciding to write about the impact of rap on the music scene probably won't be allowed, but there may be some sort of leeway. For example, if you're really interested in current events but your teacher wants you to write a research paper on a history topic, you may be able to choose a topic that fits both categories, like exploring the relationship between the US and North Korea. No matter what, always get your research paper topic approved by your teacher first before you begin writing.

113 Good Research Paper Topics

Below are 113 good research topics to help you get you started on your paper. We've organized them into ten categories to make it easier to find the type of research paper topics you're looking for.

Arts/Culture

• Discuss the main differences in art from the Italian Renaissance and the Northern Renaissance .
• Analyze the impact a famous artist had on the world.
• How is sexism portrayed in different types of media (music, film, video games, etc.)? Has the amount/type of sexism changed over the years?
• How has the music of slaves brought over from Africa shaped modern American music?
• How has rap music evolved in the past decade?
• How has the portrayal of minorities in the media changed?

Current Events

• What have been the impacts of China's one child policy?
• How have the goals of feminists changed over the decades?
• How has the Trump presidency changed international relations?
• Analyze the history of the relationship between the United States and North Korea.
• What factors contributed to the current decline in the rate of unemployment?
• What have been the impacts of states which have increased their minimum wage?
• How do US immigration laws compare to immigration laws of other countries?
• How have the US's immigration laws changed in the past few years/decades?
• How has the Black Lives Matter movement affected discussions and view about racism in the US?
• What impact has the Affordable Care Act had on healthcare in the US?
• What factors contributed to the UK deciding to leave the EU (Brexit)?
• What factors contributed to China becoming an economic power?
• Discuss the history of Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies  (some of which tokenize the S&P 500 Index on the blockchain) .
• Do students in schools that eliminate grades do better in college and their careers?
• Do students from wealthier backgrounds score higher on standardized tests?
• Do students who receive free meals at school get higher grades compared to when they weren't receiving a free meal?
• Do students who attend charter schools score higher on standardized tests than students in public schools?
• Do students learn better in same-sex classrooms?
• How does giving each student access to an iPad or laptop affect their studies?
• What are the benefits and drawbacks of the Montessori Method ?
• Do children who attend preschool do better in school later on?
• What was the impact of the No Child Left Behind act?
• How does the US education system compare to education systems in other countries?
• What impact does mandatory physical education classes have on students' health?
• Which methods are most effective at reducing bullying in schools?
• Do homeschoolers who attend college do as well as students who attended traditional schools?
• Does offering tenure increase or decrease quality of teaching?
• How does college debt affect future life choices of students?
• Should graduate students be able to form unions?

• What are different ways to lower gun-related deaths in the US?
• How and why have divorce rates changed over time?
• Is affirmative action still necessary in education and/or the workplace?
• Should physician-assisted suicide be legal?
• How has stem cell research impacted the medical field?
• How can human trafficking be reduced in the United States/world?
• Should people be able to donate organs in exchange for money?
• Which types of juvenile punishment have proven most effective at preventing future crimes?
• Has the increase in US airport security made passengers safer?
• Analyze the immigration policies of certain countries and how they are similar and different from one another.
• Several states have legalized recreational marijuana. What positive and negative impacts have they experienced as a result?
• Do tariffs increase the number of domestic jobs?
• Which prison reforms have proven most effective?
• Should governments be able to censor certain information on the internet?
• Which methods/programs have been most effective at reducing teen pregnancy?
• What are the benefits and drawbacks of the Keto diet?
• How effective are different exercise regimes for losing weight and maintaining weight loss?
• How do the healthcare plans of various countries differ from each other?
• What are the most effective ways to treat depression ?
• What are the pros and cons of genetically modified foods?
• Which methods are most effective for improving memory?
• What can be done to lower healthcare costs in the US?
• What factors contributed to the current opioid crisis?
• Analyze the history and impact of the HIV/AIDS epidemic .
• Are low-carbohydrate or low-fat diets more effective for weight loss?
• How much exercise should the average adult be getting each week?
• Which methods are most effective to get parents to vaccinate their children?
• What are the pros and cons of clean needle programs?
• How does stress affect the body?
• Discuss the history of the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians.
• What were the causes and effects of the Salem Witch Trials?
• Who was responsible for the Iran-Contra situation?
• How has New Orleans and the government's response to natural disasters changed since Hurricane Katrina?
• What events led to the fall of the Roman Empire?
• What were the impacts of British rule in India ?
• Was the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki necessary?
• What were the successes and failures of the women's suffrage movement in the United States?
• What were the causes of the Civil War?
• How did Abraham Lincoln's assassination impact the country and reconstruction after the Civil War?
• Which factors contributed to the colonies winning the American Revolution?
• What caused Hitler's rise to power?
• Discuss how a specific invention impacted history.
• What led to Cleopatra's fall as ruler of Egypt?
• How has Japan changed and evolved over the centuries?
• What were the causes of the Rwandan genocide ?

• Why did Martin Luther decide to split with the Catholic Church?
• Analyze the history and impact of a well-known cult (Jonestown, Manson family, etc.)
• How did the sexual abuse scandal impact how people view the Catholic Church?
• How has the Catholic church's power changed over the past decades/centuries?
• What are the causes behind the rise in atheism/ agnosticism in the United States?
• What were the influences in Siddhartha's life resulted in him becoming the Buddha?
• How has media portrayal of Islam/Muslims changed since September 11th?

Science/Environment

• How has the earth's climate changed in the past few decades?
• How has the use and elimination of DDT affected bird populations in the US?
• Analyze how the number and severity of natural disasters have increased in the past few decades.
• Analyze deforestation rates in a certain area or globally over a period of time.
• How have past oil spills changed regulations and cleanup methods?
• How has the Flint water crisis changed water regulation safety?
• What are the pros and cons of fracking?
• What impact has the Paris Climate Agreement had so far?
• What have NASA's biggest successes and failures been?
• How can we improve access to clean water around the world?
• Does ecotourism actually have a positive impact on the environment?
• Should the US rely on nuclear energy more?
• What can be done to save amphibian species currently at risk of extinction?
• What impact has climate change had on coral reefs?
• How are black holes created?
• Are teens who spend more time on social media more likely to suffer anxiety and/or depression?
• How will the loss of net neutrality affect internet users?
• Analyze the history and progress of self-driving vehicles.
• How has the use of drones changed surveillance and warfare methods?
• Has social media made people more or less connected?
• What progress has currently been made with artificial intelligence ?
• Do smartphones increase or decrease workplace productivity?
• What are the most effective ways to use technology in the classroom?
• How is Google search affecting our intelligence?
• When is the best age for a child to begin owning a smartphone?
• Has frequent texting reduced teen literacy rates?

How to Write a Great Research Paper

Even great research paper topics won't give you a great research paper if you don't hone your topic before and during the writing process. Follow these three tips to turn good research paper topics into great papers.

#1: Figure Out Your Thesis Early

Before you start writing a single word of your paper, you first need to know what your thesis will be. Your thesis is a statement that explains what you intend to prove/show in your paper. Every sentence in your research paper will relate back to your thesis, so you don't want to start writing without it!

As some examples, if you're writing a research paper on if students learn better in same-sex classrooms, your thesis might be "Research has shown that elementary-age students in same-sex classrooms score higher on standardized tests and report feeling more comfortable in the classroom."

If you're writing a paper on the causes of the Civil War, your thesis might be "While the dispute between the North and South over slavery is the most well-known cause of the Civil War, other key causes include differences in the economies of the North and South, states' rights, and territorial expansion."

#2: Back Every Statement Up With Research

Remember, this is a research paper you're writing, so you'll need to use lots of research to make your points. Every statement you give must be backed up with research, properly cited the way your teacher requested. You're allowed to include opinions of your own, but they must also be supported by the research you give.

#3: Do Your Research Before You Begin Writing

You don't want to start writing your research paper and then learn that there isn't enough research to back up the points you're making, or, even worse, that the research contradicts the points you're trying to make!

Get most of your research on your good research topics done before you begin writing. Then use the research you've collected to create a rough outline of what your paper will cover and the key points you're going to make. This will help keep your paper clear and organized, and it'll ensure you have enough research to produce a strong paper.

What's Next?

Are you also learning about dynamic equilibrium in your science class? We break this sometimes tricky concept down so it's easy to understand in our complete guide to dynamic equilibrium .

Thinking about becoming a nurse practitioner? Nurse practitioners have one of the fastest growing careers in the country, and we have all the information you need to know about what to expect from nurse practitioner school .

Want to know the fastest and easiest ways to convert between Fahrenheit and Celsius? We've got you covered! Check out our guide to the best ways to convert Celsius to Fahrenheit (or vice versa).

These recommendations are based solely on our knowledge and experience. If you purchase an item through one of our links, PrepScholar may receive a commission.

Christine graduated from Michigan State University with degrees in Environmental Biology and Geography and received her Master's from Duke University. In high school she scored in the 99th percentile on the SAT and was named a National Merit Finalist. She has taught English and biology in several countries.

Student and Parent Forum

Our new student and parent forum, at ExpertHub.PrepScholar.com , allow you to interact with your peers and the PrepScholar staff. See how other students and parents are navigating high school, college, and the college admissions process. Ask questions; get answers.

Ask a Question Below

Have any questions about this article or other topics? Ask below and we'll reply!

Improve With Our Famous Guides

• For All Students

The 5 Strategies You Must Be Using to Improve 160+ SAT Points

How to Get a Perfect 1600, by a Perfect Scorer

Series: How to Get 800 on Each SAT Section:

Score 800 on SAT Math

Score 800 on SAT Reading

Score 800 on SAT Writing

Series: How to Get to 600 on Each SAT Section:

Score 600 on SAT Math

Score 600 on SAT Reading

Score 600 on SAT Writing

Free Complete Official SAT Practice Tests

What SAT Target Score Should You Be Aiming For?

15 Strategies to Improve Your SAT Essay

The 5 Strategies You Must Be Using to Improve 4+ ACT Points

How to Get a Perfect 36 ACT, by a Perfect Scorer

Series: How to Get 36 on Each ACT Section:

36 on ACT English

36 on ACT Math

36 on ACT Reading

36 on ACT Science

Series: How to Get to 24 on Each ACT Section:

24 on ACT English

24 on ACT Math

24 on ACT Reading

24 on ACT Science

What ACT target score should you be aiming for?

ACT Vocabulary You Must Know

ACT Writing: 15 Tips to Raise Your Essay Score

How to Get Into Harvard and the Ivy League

How to Get a Perfect 4.0 GPA

How to Write an Amazing College Essay

What Exactly Are Colleges Looking For?

Is the ACT easier than the SAT? A Comprehensive Guide

Should you retake your SAT or ACT?

When should you take the SAT or ACT?

Stay Informed

Get the latest articles and test prep tips!

Looking for Graduate School Test Prep?

Check out our top-rated graduate blogs here:

GRE Online Prep Blog

GMAT Online Prep Blog

TOEFL Online Prep Blog

Holly R. "I am absolutely overjoyed and cannot thank you enough for helping me!”

• Mardigian Library
• Subject Guides

SOC 201: Contemporary Social Problems

• Write Your Analysis Paper
• Online Library Access
• Find Scholarly Sources
• What is Peer-Review?
• Read & Analyze Your Articles
• Select Your Sources
• Use Your Sources
• Avoid Plagiarism
• Cite Your Sources

Behavioral Sciences and Women's & Gender Studies Librarian

Writing Your Analysis of A Social Problem Paper

Paper Structure

Your paper should be typed, double spaced, with a title and reference section . Cite your sources every time you use them in the paper.

Research papers should have an introduction, a body, and a conclusion :

1. Introduction : summarizes what you will write and puts it into context. Should consist of 3 parts:

• "What You're Studying": start with a thesis statement about your social problem which includes background contextualizing it
• "So What?": demonstrate why your social problem is important and why your reader should care about it
• "Game Plan": outline the main points of your paper and the order in which you will address them

2. Body : presents the main points of the paper, with each paragraph representing one aspect of the paper's main focus. Prioritize and organize your main points and paragraphs to logically build your arguments to a compelling conclusion. Each paragraph should include a topic sentence, evidence, analysis, and a transition sentence:

• The topic sentence summarizes the paragraph's main idea
• Use evidence from your research sources to support or make the argument for your assertions about your main idea
• Analyze your evidence to show how it links to your broader thesis
• Include a transition sentence at the end of each paragraph to connect what you discussed in that paragraph with the main idea of the next paragraph

3. Conclusion : summarizes what you wrote and what you learned

• Restate your thesis from the introduction in different words
• Briefly summarize your main points or arguments and pull them together into the paper's main thesis
• End with a strong, final statement that ties the whole paper together and makes it clear the paper has come to an end
• No new ideas should be introduced in the conclusion, it should only review and analyze the main points from the body of the paper (with the exception of suggestions for further research)

4.  References list : a list of the sources you cited 

• Cite your sources in APA or ASA Style
• Format your References list in APA or ASA Style

For more writing help, contact  the Writing Center   and  make an online appointment  to meet with one of their consultants.

• << Previous: Cite Your Sources
• Last Updated: Apr 26, 2024 8:26 AM
• URL: https://guides.umd.umich.edu/soc201

Call us at 313-593-5559

Chat with us

Text us: 313-486-5399

Email us your question

• 4901 Evergreen Road Dearborn, MI 48128, USA
• Phone: 313-593-5000
• Maps & Directions
• M+Google Mail
• Emergency Information
• UM-Dearborn Connect
• Wolverine Access

Numbers, Facts and Trends Shaping Your World

Read our research on:

Full Topic List

Regions & Countries

• Publications
• Our Methods
• Short Reads
• Tools & Resources

Read Our Research On:

How Pew Research Center will report on generations moving forward

Journalists, researchers and the public often look at society through the lens of generation, using terms like Millennial or Gen Z to describe groups of similarly aged people. This approach can help readers see themselves in the data and assess where we are and where we’re headed as a country.

Pew Research Center has been at the forefront of generational research over the years, telling the story of Millennials as they came of age politically and as they moved more firmly into adult life . In recent years, we’ve also been eager to learn about Gen Z as the leading edge of this generation moves into adulthood.

But generational research has become a crowded arena. The field has been flooded with content that’s often sold as research but is more like clickbait or marketing mythology. There’s also been a growing chorus of criticism about generational research and generational labels in particular.

Recently, as we were preparing to embark on a major research project related to Gen Z, we decided to take a step back and consider how we can study generations in a way that aligns with our values of accuracy, rigor and providing a foundation of facts that enriches the public dialogue.

A typical generation spans 15 to 18 years. As many critics of generational research point out, there is great diversity of thought, experience and behavior within generations.

We set out on a yearlong process of assessing the landscape of generational research. We spoke with experts from outside Pew Research Center, including those who have been publicly critical of our generational analysis, to get their take on the pros and cons of this type of work. We invested in methodological testing to determine whether we could compare findings from our earlier telephone surveys to the online ones we’re conducting now. And we experimented with higher-level statistical analyses that would allow us to isolate the effect of generation.

What emerged from this process was a set of clear guidelines that will help frame our approach going forward. Many of these are principles we’ve always adhered to , but others will require us to change the way we’ve been doing things in recent years.

Here’s a short overview of how we’ll approach generational research in the future:

We’ll only do generational analysis when we have historical data that allows us to compare generations at similar stages of life. When comparing generations, it’s crucial to control for age. In other words, researchers need to look at each generation or age cohort at a similar point in the life cycle. (“Age cohort” is a fancy way of referring to a group of people who were born around the same time.)

When doing this kind of research, the question isn’t whether young adults today are different from middle-aged or older adults today. The question is whether young adults today are different from young adults at some specific point in the past.

To answer this question, it’s necessary to have data that’s been collected over a considerable amount of time – think decades. Standard surveys don’t allow for this type of analysis. We can look at differences across age groups, but we can’t compare age groups over time.

Another complication is that the surveys we conducted 20 or 30 years ago aren’t usually comparable enough to the surveys we’re doing today. Our earlier surveys were done over the phone, and we’ve since transitioned to our nationally representative online survey panel , the American Trends Panel . Our internal testing showed that on many topics, respondents answer questions differently depending on the way they’re being interviewed. So we can’t use most of our surveys from the late 1980s and early 2000s to compare Gen Z with Millennials and Gen Xers at a similar stage of life.

This means that most generational analysis we do will use datasets that have employed similar methodologies over a long period of time, such as surveys from the U.S. Census Bureau. A good example is our 2020 report on Millennial families , which used census data going back to the late 1960s. The report showed that Millennials are marrying and forming families at a much different pace than the generations that came before them.

Even when we have historical data, we will attempt to control for other factors beyond age in making generational comparisons. If we accept that there are real differences across generations, we’re basically saying that people who were born around the same time share certain attitudes or beliefs – and that their views have been influenced by external forces that uniquely shaped them during their formative years. Those forces may have been social changes, economic circumstances, technological advances or political movements.

When we see that younger adults have different views than their older counterparts, it may be driven by their demographic traits rather than the fact that they belong to a particular generation.

The tricky part is isolating those forces from events or circumstances that have affected all age groups, not just one generation. These are often called “period effects.” An example of a period effect is the Watergate scandal, which drove down trust in government among all age groups. Differences in trust across age groups in the wake of Watergate shouldn’t be attributed to the outsize impact that event had on one age group or another, because the change occurred across the board.

Changing demographics also may play a role in patterns that might at first seem like generational differences. We know that the United States has become more racially and ethnically diverse in recent decades, and that race and ethnicity are linked with certain key social and political views. When we see that younger adults have different views than their older counterparts, it may be driven by their demographic traits rather than the fact that they belong to a particular generation.

Controlling for these factors can involve complicated statistical analysis that helps determine whether the differences we see across age groups are indeed due to generation or not. This additional step adds rigor to the process. Unfortunately, it’s often absent from current discussions about Gen Z, Millennials and other generations.

When we can’t do generational analysis, we still see value in looking at differences by age and will do so where it makes sense. Age is one of the most common predictors of differences in attitudes and behaviors. And even if age gaps aren’t rooted in generational differences, they can still be illuminating. They help us understand how people across the age spectrum are responding to key trends, technological breakthroughs and historical events.

Each stage of life comes with a unique set of experiences. Young adults are often at the leading edge of changing attitudes on emerging social trends. Take views on same-sex marriage , for example, or attitudes about gender identity .

Many middle-aged adults, in turn, face the challenge of raising children while also providing care and support to their aging parents. And older adults have their own obstacles and opportunities. All of these stories – rooted in the life cycle, not in generations – are important and compelling, and we can tell them by analyzing our surveys at any given point in time.

When we do have the data to study groups of similarly aged people over time, we won’t always default to using the standard generational definitions and labels. While generational labels are simple and catchy, there are other ways to analyze age cohorts. For example, some observers have suggested grouping people by the decade in which they were born. This would create narrower cohorts in which the members may share more in common. People could also be grouped relative to their age during key historical events (such as the Great Recession or the COVID-19 pandemic) or technological innovations (like the invention of the iPhone).

By choosing not to use the standard generational labels when they’re not appropriate, we can avoid reinforcing harmful stereotypes or oversimplifying people’s complex lived experiences.

Existing generational definitions also may be too broad and arbitrary to capture differences that exist among narrower cohorts. A typical generation spans 15 to 18 years. As many critics of generational research point out, there is great diversity of thought, experience and behavior within generations. The key is to pick a lens that’s most appropriate for the research question that’s being studied. If we’re looking at political views and how they’ve shifted over time, for example, we might group people together according to the first presidential election in which they were eligible to vote.

With these considerations in mind, our audiences should not expect to see a lot of new research coming out of Pew Research Center that uses the generational lens. We’ll only talk about generations when it adds value, advances important national debates and highlights meaningful societal trends.

• Age & Generations
• Demographic Research
• Generation X
• Generation Z
• Generations
• Greatest Generation
• Methodological Research
• Millennials
• Silent Generation

Kim Parker is director of social trends research at Pew Research Center

How Teens and Parents Approach Screen Time

Who are you the art and science of measuring identity, u.s. centenarian population is projected to quadruple over the next 30 years, older workers are growing in number and earning higher wages, teens, social media and technology 2023, most popular.

1615 L St. NW, Suite 800 Washington, DC 20036 USA (+1) 202-419-4300 | Main (+1) 202-857-8562 | Fax (+1) 202-419-4372 |  Media Inquiries

Research Topics

• Coronavirus (COVID-19)
• Economy & Work
• Family & Relationships
• Gender & LGBTQ
• Immigration & Migration
• International Affairs
• Internet & Technology
• News Habits & Media
• Non-U.S. Governments
• Other Topics
• Politics & Policy
• Race & Ethnicity
• Email Newsletters

ABOUT PEW RESEARCH CENTER  Pew Research Center is a nonpartisan fact tank that informs the public about the issues, attitudes and trends shaping the world. It conducts public opinion polling, demographic research, media content analysis and other empirical social science research. Pew Research Center does not take policy positions. It is a subsidiary of  The Pew Charitable Trusts .

Copyright 2024 Pew Research Center

Terms & Conditions

Privacy Policy

Cookie Settings

Reprints, Permissions & Use Policy