Who should belong to the Society for the Study of Social Problems (SSSP)?

The SSSP is an interdisciplinary community of scholars, practitioners, advocates, and students interested in the application of critical, scientific, and humanistic perspectives to the study of vital social problems. If you are involved in scholarship or action in pursuit of a just society nationally or internationally, you belong in the SSSP. You will meet others engaged in research to find the causes and consequences of social problems, as well as others seeking to apply existing scholarship to the formulation of social policies. Student members and newcomers are especially welcome.

What does the SSSP have to offer? 

For over seventy years, the Society has provided a supportive, inviting, and respectful space for those working to change the world we study. The strength of our organization rests on the diversity of our membership and ideas–and a steadfast commitment to collectively make a difference. Join us today and bring your unique contribution to SSSP.

The SSSP promotes research and dialogue through presentations at annual meetings, listservs, and newsletters throughout the year; publications in Social Problems; awards to community groups; supports graduate students, young scholars, and activists with professional support, leadership opportunities, and scholarships; passes and acts upon public resolutions; and fosters the generation of new ideas. Together, we aim to:

  • Connect with an interdisciplinary community of scholars, practitioners, advocates, and students interested in the application of critical, scientific, and humanistic perspectives to the study of vital social problems, both national and international.

  • Promote sociological research and teaching on significant problems of social life and protect academic freedom.

  • Encourage and support the work of young scholars and activists.

  • Foster collaborative relationships among persons and organizations engaged in the application of research to the development of social policies and activism.

  • Create a more just and humane world.

SSSP members enjoy access to all issues from 1953-current of the Society’s flagship journal, Social Problems, one of the top social science journals in the country. Click to learn more.

What are the benefits of membership?

Members have a unique opportunity to exchange ideas and form friendships with others committed to research and action to make a more just world. In addition, membership in the SSSP provides:

  • Awards, Fellowships, and Scholarships

  • Discounted Access to Conferences

  • Leadership Opportunities

  • Mentorship Programs

  • Networking Opportunities

  • New Job Prospects

  • Op-Ed Workshops

  • Paper Presentations

  • Professional Development

  • Inspiration, Motivation, and Solidarity toward working for social justice

Oxford University Press is proud to offer SSSP members a 25% discount across their wide range of titles! Click to save.

Plus, each member will receive a FREE division membership and student members will receive two FREE division memberships. Members may choose additional divisions at $10 each. Membership in the divisions allows current members to vote in division elections and receive division newsletters.