Social work

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Social Work is a multidisciplinary professional and academic discipline that is committed to the promotion of social welfare, social justice, and social change. This discipline employs a range of strategies and methods, such as community mobilization, individual casework, and group work, all aimed at enhancing the adaptive capacities of individuals and communities in their social and economic contexts. Social work also involves coordination with various social service agencies. Social work is a profession dedicated to helping individuals, families, groups, and communities to enhance their individual and collective well-being. It aims to help people develop their skills and abilities to use their own resources and those of the community to resolve problems.[1]

The Scope of Social Work[edit | edit source]

Social work practice consists of the professional application of social work values, principles, and techniques to one or more of the following ends: helping people obtain tangible services; counseling and psychotherapy with individuals, families, and groups; helping communities or groups provide or improve social and health services, and participating in legislative processes.

The practice of social work requires knowledge of human development and behavior; of social, economic, and cultural institutions; and of the interaction of all these factors.[2]

The Role of Social Workers[edit | edit source]

Social workers work in a variety of settings, including non-profit organizations, government agencies, hospitals, schools, and private practices. They are often involved in social justice issues, such as advocating for the rights of marginalized populations, and assisting individuals and families in navigating through social service systems.[3]

The Importance of Community Resources[edit | edit source]

An essential part of social work is leveraging community resources to support individuals and groups. These resources can range from social service agencies and healthcare providers to educational institutions and employment services. Social workers often act as a bridge between individuals or communities and these resources, ensuring that the people they support have access to the services they need.[4]

Education and Training[edit | edit source]

To become a social worker, one typically needs a Bachelor's degree in social work (BSW) for entry-level positions. However, some positions, particularly in clinical and healthcare settings, may require a Master's degree in social work (MSW). All states require clinical social workers to be licensed, and most states require licensure or certification for nonclinical social workers.[5]

List of Clinical Social Workers (CSW) (USA)[edit | edit source]

US territories

References[edit | edit source]

  1. ↑ "What is Social Work?". 2021. Retrieved 2023-05-18.
  2. ↑ "Definition of Social Work". 2021. Retrieved 2023-05-18.
  3. ↑ "Social Workers". 2021. Retrieved 2023-05-18.
  4. ↑ "Social Work History". 2021. Retrieved 2023-05-18.
  5. ↑ "Social Workers: How to Become One". 2021. Retrieved 2023-05-18.
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD