How can you address the root causes of social problems in a community?

Studies show that in groups of people there are those who though facing similar circumstances as others come up with practical solutions around those barriers. These people are called "positive deviants". Discover those practical solutions and support those exceptions to become the role models for others. The Center for Peer-driven Change is finding and highlighting those ... and those practical steps are spreading peer to peer in our first countries especially in Africa.

In addition to understanding these macro-level influences, a thorough context analysis should also encompass the micro-level aspects: the unique strengths, needs, interests, and values of the individuals directly affected by the issue. This will aid in the design of interventions that are not just theoretically sound, but also relatable and practical for the community you aim to serve. Equally critical is the identification of key stakeholders and an examination of the power dynamics at play. These could range from local authorities, advocacy groups, and potential allies to even those who may oppose the intervention. Knowing who holds power and influence can provide insights into potential barriers or facilitators for change.

Listen and Understand: Spend time with community members to hear their stories and understand their struggles. Genuine listening builds trust and reveals the deeper issues at play. Basic Needs First: Ensure that everyone has access to food, shelter, and safety. These are the foundations upon which stable lives and communities are built. Mental Health Support: Provide accessible mental health resources. A community that supports mental well-being is more resilient and better equipped to handle challenges. Advocate for Change: Stand up for policies that address inequality and injustice. Use your voice to advocate for those who may feel voiceless.

Interventions addressing social problems are usually not informed by the social and behavioural sciences. As a result, recommendations are made, that while technically correct, are alien to the population - culturally inappropriate and many times outside the target population's capacity to perform. Initiatives, must, therefore create the environment for action through proper assessment of the predisposing, enabling, and motivating factors as informed by the target population. Another action that is often overlooked is the general mood towards governance within the space the initiative is being implemented. Where there is a lack of leadership and trust, injustice, and exclusion, there is a general apathy toward compliance.

It’s difficult to understand the root of a social problem without engaging the community. Delve deep into the community by asking thoughtful questions, building rapport, being nonjudgmental, collaborating to find different solutions, and understanding where the community is coming from to make the most impact.

On September 25th (and the 26th for those observing Yom Kippur) there were mass protests all over the GTA and other parts of Ontario against the privatization of healthcare. This was a collaborative effort by the #OntarioHealthcareCoalition, which is led by individual members and members of the healthcare community. A great example of how people can rally behind a cause that affects us locally. People who can't attend can donate, can speak about being involved in other ways. Even if the media doesn't cover it - this sends a clear and cohesive message to our provincial government. We can participate and channel our apprehension towards social progress into action that has far reaching net-positive effects. This is what we need more of.

Living and working with marginalized communities in Kilifi County in Kenya, understanding their cultural practices, lifestyle, belief system, outside influence (especially from non-profits and government agencies working in the area), contribute a lot to solving social issues. For example some communities believe in siring kids as early as possible so teen pregnancy isn't viewed as a problem yet for outsiders and government planners, teen pregnancy is viewed as retrogressive. We use different experiences and examples to teach them the negative effects of teen pregnancy and though it's being embraced slowly, positive results are being seen. Hardliners ironically are parents and influential people in the society. Finding a balance is key