SW 160 Chapter 11: Work-Related Problems and Social Work in the Workplace

Vocabulary flashcards covering key definitions, workforce changes, challenges, and social work interventions from Chapter 11: Work-Related Problems and Social Work in the Workplace.

Income (Work Function)

Earnings from work that pay for basic needs and support families.

Identity (Work Function)

A sense of self-worth and achievement that individuals frequently connect to their jobs.

Connection (Workplace)

Relationships with coworkers that provide social support and friendship.

Earlier Views of Work

Perspectives held by some ancient societies that viewed manual work as undesirable.

Work Ethic

Belief systems rooted in religious and cultural traditions that increasingly emphasized and valued hard work.

Service Work

A broad sector of the modern workforce encompassing healthcare, education, offices, and services.

Specialization

A workforce division where employees perform specific, specialized tasks requiring distinct skills.

Automation

Technological advancements that create new employment opportunities but also have the potential to displace jobs.

Low-Wage Work

Employment positions characterized by limited pay, lack of benefits, and economic insecurity.

Outsourcing

A business practice in which companies relocate production or operational tasks to other countries.

Unequal Access

Disparities in employment opportunities caused by discrimination and restricted access to training.

Alienation

A state in which workers feel disconnected, powerless, or find a lack of meaning and control at work.

Unemployment

The condition of losing one's job or being unable to find employment.

Workplace Health Hazards

Job-related threats including injuries from unsafe equipment, exposure to toxic substances, and severe work-related stress.

Skills Mismatch

A structural cause of unemployment occurring when available job openings require skills or training that job seekers do not possess.

Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs)

Workplace programs designed to assist employees with personal, emotional, family, financial, or substance-use concerns.

Workplace Social Work

The practice of supporting employees, addressing needs, connecting workers to community resources, and advocating for fair, safe, and dignified working environments.

Advocacy (Workplace Social Work)

Active social work efforts aimed at promoting fair, safe, and supportive working conditions within organizations.