Social Work and Other Helping Professions

why people have problems

genetic, socialization, cultural differences, environmental factors, the opportunity structure

values (of the profession)

committed to the dignity, worth, and value of all persons regardless of who they are. nonjudgemental attitude, right to autonomy and self-determination

internal barriers

emotions or attitudes that make it difficult for a person to seek help, requires that you work within the helper client relationship

external barriers

barriers in the environment that make it difficult for a person to receive help, requires that you work through advocacy and within organizations

barriers to seeking help

• difficultly evaluating the seriousness of problems

• tendency to deny gravity of problems

• fear of being judged, labeled, or punished

• distrust of the human service system

• shame of not being able to solve own problems

• fear of unknown

• difficulty choosing appropriate program

• inadequacy of services

• high cost of services

• part history/reputation of program

• myths and lack of info about human services