BSW-122 IGNOU Solved Assignment 2026-27

Course Scope & Syllabus Overview for BSW-122: Society, Social Institutions and Social Problems

BSW-122: Society, Social Institutions and Social Problems is a core course within IGNOU’s Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) curriculum, designed to critically examine the structural foundations of human societies, their evolving social systems, and the systemic challenges they confront. This course bridges sociological theory with practical applications, equipping students to analyze societal dynamics—from kinship and marriage to broader social disruptions—while contextualizing them within India’s socio-cultural framework. Through rigorous engagement with empirical data and case studies, learners develop analytical skills to assess social problems (e.g., poverty, gender inequality) and evaluate intervention strategies. The syllabus aligns with the CBCS framework, emphasizing interdisciplinary insights to foster socially responsible practitioners.

Key Syllabus Units & Topics

• Block-1: Introduction to Society: Explores foundational concepts of society, including its definition, types (e.g., tribal, industrial), and evolutionary stages, while critiquing functionalist and conflict theories to understand societal cohesion and change.
• Block-2: Society, Social Systems and Sub-Systems: Dissects the hierarchical structure of society, analyzing primary (family) and secondary (education, religion) groups, their interdependencies, and how institutional roles (e.g., gender, caste) shape social stratification and mobility.
• Block-3: Social Institution of Marriage: Investigates marriage as a universal yet culturally variable institution, examining its economic, reproductive, and symbolic functions, alongside contemporary issues like dowry, polygamy, and divorce trends in India.
• Block-4: Social Problems and Services: Maps major social issues (e.g., unemployment, substance abuse) to their socio-economic roots, evaluating government and NGO interventions, and emphasizing participatory solutions through case analyses of marginalized communities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the word limit for Section A of the BSW-122 TMA, and how are answers marked?
A: Section A requires 500 words per question (strictly enforced), with marks awarded for conceptual clarity, relevance to syllabus content, and adherence to academic referencing—typically 3–4 marks per question based on depth of analysis.

Q: Are there specific resources or textbooks IGNOU recommends for BSW-122 to ensure alignment with the exam pattern?
A: IGNOU’s prescribed textbook is Society, Social Institutions and Social Problems (BSW-122) by Dr. R.K. Mishra, supplemented by case studies from Social Work in India (edited by Dr. A. K. Sharma). Cross-referencing these with the eGyanKosh syllabus ensures 100% exam relevance.