Social Work notes

What is social work?

Social work is a practice-based profession and an academic discipline that promotes social change and development, social cohesion, and the empowerment and liberation of people.

What principles are central to social work?

Principles of social justice, human rights, collective responsibility, and respect for diversities.

What underpins the practice of social work?

Theories of social work, social sciences, humanities, and indigenous knowledge.

What are key principles of social work?

Social justice, respect for people’s worth, human rights and dignity, competence, integrity, service, confidentiality, social change, human relations, and empowerment.

What characteristics do good social workers possess?

Self-awareness, emotional maturity, leadership, responsibility, empathy, adaptability, assertiveness, and perseverance.

Who do social workers primarily help?

Vulnerable groups such as orphans, single mothers, and elderly people.

Why did social work develop?

To address issues like poverty, inequality, and exploitation.

How did social work services initially start?

Through religious organisations before being taken over by government departments.

What do social workers do?

They help solve problems, improve people’s lives, implement social policies and laws, and support individuals and communities.

What is the education requirement for social workers?

Social workers typically study a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW), complete theory and fieldwork, and are trained as generalist professionals.

In what areas do social workers work?

They work in fields such as clinical social work, child welfare protection, school social work, medical social work, community development, substance abuse counselling, HIV/AIDS support, gerontological social work, trauma & crisis intervention, and correctional social work.

What is the difference between social work and social welfare?

Social work directly helps individuals, families, and communities, while social welfare focuses on policy and programs at the societal level.

What similarities exist between social work and social welfare?

Both aim to improve quality of life, promote social justice, and support individuals and communities.

What is the Residual Approach in social work?

Help is provided only when people cannot help themselves, with family and community support prioritized and social services as a last resort.

What defines the Institutional Approach in social work?

The government becomes the primary provider of social welfare services, making them accessible to all members of society.

What do social workers need to maintain registration?

Continuing Professional Development (CPD) through workshops, conferences, and seminars.

Who is Jane Addams?

Known as the Mother of Social Work, she founded Hull House and started the Settlement House Movement.

What was the Carnegie Commission's recommendation in 1932?

To develop the social work profession and create the Department of Social Welfare.

What are the five attributes of a profession according to Ernest Greenwood?

Specialized knowledge, professional authority, self-regulation, a code of ethics, and professional culture.

What are the ethical principles and values that make social work a profession?

Social work has to adhere to a theoretical base, legislative recognition, and ethical principles.