How are applied and clinical sociology different from academic, or foundational, sociology?
Applied and Clinical Sociologists are practitioners. Their work can best be understood by contrasting it to Basic Sociology.
Basic Sociology
A sociologist is like a skilled mechanic who studies the intricate workings of a complex machine, like a car, to understand how all the parts (individuals, groups, institutions) fit together, how they interact, and what causes the machine to run smoothly or break down, by examining the social structures and patterns within a society. By understanding the underlying mechanisms, a mechanic can fix the car, just as a sociologist might propose solutions to social problems based on their research findings. Because the field of sociology is so large sociologists often specialize in studying specific areas like family dynamics, crime, education, health, organizations, race relations, gender roles, international relations and development, or economic inequality. Findings are published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at conferences to contribute to the field of sociology.
Applied Sociology
Imagine diving deep into the ways people live, work, and interact with one another. Applied sociology takes this understanding and uses it to address real-world issues, enhance our communities, and improve lives. It’s all about leveraging our knowledge of society to drive positive change. Applied sociologists gather data and utilize their analytical skills to problem-solve and find solutions to various problems.
Clinical Sociology
Clinical sociology is about using what we know about society to help people and communities in a very hands-on way. Clinical sociologists look at problems that people face in their daily lives, like stress, family issues, or community conflicts, and they work directly with those people to find solutions and improve their well-being. Clinical Sociologists create interventions designed to produce better outcomes. It’s like therapy for society, using knowledge to make real changes in people’s lives.
Sociological Practice
Applied and Clinical Sociology are thus two ways in which sociologists practice their craft. Many sociologists who practice their craft are employed outside of academia, including many of the members of the Association for Applied and Clinical Sociology. Imagine if you could use the secrets of how society works to make things better for everyone. Sociological practice is all about taking what we know from studying people, groups, organizations, and societies, and then applying that knowledge to help solve real-life problems. It’s like being a detective who finds out why things happen in society and then uses that information to improve communities, organizations, and people’s lives.
Check out the Practicing Sociologists link to see for yourself how AACS members define themselves and the work they do.