What is Applied and Clinical Sociology
Sociological practice is a more general term for both Applied and Clinical Sociology. Steele and Price (2004) define sociological practice as “any use (often client-centered) of the sociological perspective and/or its tools in the understanding of, intervention in, and/or enhancement of human social life.” The American Sociological Association notes that applied and clinical sociologies are complementary approaches (Careers in Clinical Sociology, 2003). Clinical sociology is often a role, and applied sociology is a method. Both stress the application of sociology.
Examples of Clinical Sociologist roles include (From ASA Careers in Clinical Sociology, 2003):
- Counselor
- Mediator
- Group Facilitator
- Mitigation Expert
- Organizational Consultant
Examples of Applied Sociology include (adapted from the University of Washington Library):
- Evaluating the effectiveness of various educational policies/programs
- Investigating the social norms promoting or inhibiting the spread of AIDS
- Evaluating and assessing the effectiveness of various criminal justice programs
- Analyzing employment records for evidence of discrimination
- Planning medical services and facilities for a target population
- Bringing together knowledge of our social, political, and economic world to better understand the world around us: Where we are, how we got here, and where we are going. A solid understanding of the world is the first step for improving living conditions of all people throughout the world.
- Using the above understanding to improve society by addressing and preventing problems, thereby developing an optimal society where problems are less likely to arise.
For more information on what applied and clinical sociology is (and is not), we recommend the following sites:
Sociological Practice, Social Change, and Social Problems, by Bonnie Berry
Applied Sociology and Sociological Practice, at Anne Arundel Community College
Center for Applied Sociology at the University of Arizona
Development of the Field of Clinical Sociology, by Jan Marie Fritz
Understanding the World Today, by Gene Shackman