Social Structure, Social Interaction, and Collective Behaviour

Social Interaction: is the process by which people act toward or respond to other people and is the foundation for all relationships and groups within society. Social Interaction: is the process by which people act toward or respond to other people and is the foundation for all relationships and groups within society. Social Structure: is the stable pattern of social relationships that exists within a particular group of society Social Structure: is the stable pattern of social relationships that exists within a particular group of society

Why is “social structure” important?? “It is essential for the survival of society and well being of individuals…it connects us to the larger society.”

Homelessness How do we define homelessness? How do we define homelessness? Who are the homeless? Who are the homeless? What are some stereotypes associated with homelessness? What are some stereotypes associated with homelessness?

Relative Homelessness vs. Absolute Homelessness Relative Homelessness: describes the condition of those who have a physical shelter, but one that does not meet basic standards of health and safety (protection from elements, safe water, sanitation etc…) Relative Homelessness: describes the condition of those who have a physical shelter, but one that does not meet basic standards of health and safety (protection from elements, safe water, sanitation etc…) Absolute Homelessness: describes the condition of people without physical shelter who sleep outdoors, in vehicles, abandoned buildings etc… Absolute Homelessness: describes the condition of people without physical shelter who sleep outdoors, in vehicles, abandoned buildings etc…

How Much Do you Know about Homelessness? 1. Most people choose to be homeless. 2. The number of homeless persons in Canada has gradually declined over the past 30 years. 3. Homelessness is often caused by racism and discrimination. 4. Most homeless people are mentally ill. 5. Men over the age of 50 make up most of Canada’s homeless population. 6. The number of homeless adolescents has increased in the past decade. 7. Ono out of every 4 homeless persons are children. 8. There are approximately homeless persons in Canada.

Answers 1. Most people choose to be homeless. F 2. The number of homeless persons in Canada has gradually declined over the past 30 years. F 3. Homelessness is often caused by racism and discrimination.T 4. Most homeless people are mentally ill. F 5. Men over the age of 50 make up most of Canada’s homeless population. F 6. The number of homeless adolescents has increased in the past decade. T 7. One out of every 4 homeless persons are children. T 8. There are approximately homeless persons in Canada. F

Compare Functional and Conflict Perspectives of Social Structure: Functional Perspective Conflict Perspective