Social Welfare Agencies and Social Reform Movements: The Case of the Single Parent Family

Authors

Michael J. Smith, Hunter Collge
Beth Moses, New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services

Abstract

To a greater extent than before, social welfare agencies are emphasizing social change over direct services. A social reform movement is a mechanism by which societal and institutional change may be accomplished. The relationship between social welfare organizations and social movements has not been clearly defined. The sociological theories of Smelser, Turner, Killian and others on collective behavior and social movements provide a useful knowledge base for welfare organizations and professionals espousing social reform goals. The single parent family population is discussed as a group with the potential to generate into a social reform movement.

Recommended Citation

Smith, Michael J. and Moses, Beth (1980) "Social Welfare Agencies and Social Reform Movements: The Case of the Single Parent Family," The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare: Vol. 7: Iss. 1, Article 7.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.15453/0191-5096.1399
Available at: https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/jssw/vol7/iss1/7