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Problematicization is a concept in critical theory and social sciences that refers to the process of questioning and challenging dominant or established norms, discourses, and power structures. It involves analyzing and highlighting the complexities and contradictions within these established frameworks, with the ultimate goal of making them more problematic or raising doubts about their validity.

The concept of problematicization is closely related to deconstruction, a methodology developed by French philosopher Jacques Derrida. Deconstruction involves critically examining the underlying assumptions, power relations, and social dynamics that underpin a given text, discourse, or institution. Problematicization extends this approach by encouraging critical thinkers to ask probing questions about the social norms, values, and power structures that shape our understanding of the world.

In the context of research and inquiry, problematicization involves interrogating seemingly fixed or taken-for-granted concepts and categories. It requires investigating the social, historical, and cultural contexts in which these concepts have developed, and considering how they reflect and produce power relationships, social inequalities, and systemic injustices.

Problematicization can be applied to various domains, including politics, education, media studies, and health science. By challenging dominant discourses and power structures, problematicization offers a critical tool for promoting social change, cultivating critical thinking, and fostering more nuanced understandings of social problems. However, it also requires a willingness to expose oneself to uncertainty, ambiguity, and contestation, as well as to consider alternative perspectives and forms of knowledge.