Which one of the following methods is used to diagnose and solve social problems?

RUHS, Jaipur, M.Sc Nursing Entrance Exam-2022

Applied Sociology

Medium

Appeared in: RUHS, Jaipur, M.Sc Nursing Entrance Exam-2022

Explanation

A social survey is a research method used to collect data from a large number of people to understand social issues within a community.
Its primary purpose is often practical; it aims to diagnose social problems (referred to as 'social pathology') such as poverty, crime, or public health crises.
By gathering systematic data, social surveys provide the evidence base needed to propose and implement effective solutions and public health actions.
Historically, social surveys have been instrumental in public health development, such as the work by Chadwick in Great Britain which led to the establishment of the General Board of Health.

Option A: A case study focuses intensively on a single unit, such as one person or one family. While it provides deep insights, its findings cannot be reliably generalized to diagnose a problem affecting an entire community.
Option C: An opinion poll is a type of survey designed to quickly gauge public sentiment on a specific, often political, topic. It does not provide the in-depth data needed to diagnose the complex root causes of social problems.
Option D: Observation is a data collection technique where a researcher watches subjects, either in a natural or controlled setting. It is a component of research but not a comprehensive method by itself for both diagnosing and solving broad social problems.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Sociological Research Methods as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Community Health Nurses frequently use social surveys for community needs assessments. This helps in identifying prevalent health issues (e.g., malnutrition, lack of immunization, sanitation problems) and planning targeted health programs.
Understanding these research methods is crucial for evidence-based practice, allowing nurses to critically evaluate research and apply findings to improve patient and community outcomes.
What if the goal was to understand the unique coping mechanisms of a single family dealing with a chronic illness? In that case, a Case Study would be the more appropriate method, as it allows for a deep, holistic exploration of that family's specific situation.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core task in the question: the method must both 'diagnose' (identify and understand) and 'solve' (provide a basis for action) social problems.
Next, analyze the scope implied by 'social problems'—these are issues affecting a large community, not just an individual.
Evaluate each option against these two criteria (diagnosis/solution and community-wide scope).
A 'Case Study' is too narrow (one unit). 'Observation' is just a data gathering technique. 'Opinion Poll' is too superficial for deep diagnosis.
'Social Survey' is designed to study large groups systematically to understand problems and inform solutions, making it the best fit.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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