Problem Statement: Evaluate a social problem and how it impacts the criminal justice system in the United States. You will recall that in the Post Your Introduction activity in Week 1 you identified a social problem. You may use that problem for your Final Paper or choose a different social and criminal justice problem.
Outline: Using the sample below as a guide, provide an outline for your Final Paper. Remember that papers are expected to define a significant problem faced by the justice system, describe the scope and consequences of the problem, and discuss society’s responses to the problem (including public policies and other less formal responses). Your paper should also present a clearly reasoned alternative, supported by scholarly research.
Annotated Bibliography: The purpose of creating a list of sources is to assist you in organizing and evaluating your research.
Identify the problem. Be sure to narrow your problem enough to allow a focused examination.
Describe the individual, social, and criminal justice system implications of this problem. Discussion of implications should be supported by accurate research data.
Summarize what experts say about the problem.
Explain what we, as a society, have done to remedy this problem. Consider public policies and other, less formal responses.
Analyze to what extent public policies and other, less formal responses are effective in addressing this problem.
Propose an alternative solution to the problem.
Analyze why the alternative is, or can be, an effective response to the problem. Remember to consider negative consequences of the alternative response.
Conclude with your thoughts about your chosen social problem. This is a good place to include personal opinions, assuming you wish to share them in a research paper.
Guide On Rating System
Vote
Outline:
I. Introduction
A. Briefly introduce the social problem being discussed
B. Provide a thesis statement outlining the main points of the paper
II. Problem Identification
A. Clearly define the social problem and its scope
B. Explain why this problem is significant in the context of the criminal justice system
III. Implications of the Problem
A. Individual implications
1. Discuss how this problem affects individuals within society
2. Present evidence and research data to support these implications
B. Social implications
1. Examine the broader social consequences of this problem
2. Analyze the impact on communities, families, and societal norms
C. Criminal justice system implications
1. Discuss how this problem affects the functioning of the criminal justice system
2. Identify challenges and limitations faced by law enforcement, courts, and corrections
IV. Expert Opinions
A. Summarize the viewpoints and research findings of experts in the field
B. Present a range of perspectives on the problem and its implications
V. Societal Responses
A. Discuss public policies implemented to address the problem
B. Evaluate the effectiveness of these policies in mitigating the problem
C. Analyze less formal responses from society, such as community initiatives or advocacy groups
VI. Effectiveness of Responses
A. Critically analyze the extent to which public policies and other responses have been effective
B. Consider the limitations and shortcomings of these approaches
VII. Alternative Solution
A. Propose an alternative solution to the social problem
B. Explain the rationale behind this alternative and how it addresses the root causes of the problem
VIII. Analysis of Alternative Solution
A. Provide evidence and research to support the effectiveness of the alternative solution
B. Examine potential negative consequences or challenges that may arise from implementing the alternative
IX. Conclusion
A. Summarize the main points made in the paper
B. Discuss personal thoughts and opinions on the social problem and its potential solutions