Intro to Social Work Quiz 2: Study Guide
Ernie Vasquez
Intro to Social Work Study Guide
Social Work in Schools
1. Introduction to School Social Workers (SSWs):
- Definition: SSWs emerged to address student needs and promote quality educational experiences.
- Challenges: Initial challenges included issues of racism, sexism, and social class.
2. Collaborative Efforts:
- SSWs collaborate with teachers, administrators, and staff.
- Purpose: To promote and advocate for quality educational programs, outcomes, and the overall well-being of students.
3. Needs Assessment and Services:
- SSWs assess the needs of children.
- Action: Recommend and secure services for both students and their families.
4. Functions of SSWs (According to NASW Center):
- Biophysical assessments.
- Various student assessments.
- Intervention and discharge planning.
- Direct therapeutic services and programming.
- Crisis intervention.
- Home visits.
5. Common Challenges (NASW Center):
- High caseloads.
- Limited resources.
- Lack of confidential spaces.
- Assignment to more than one school/location.
Violence & Bullying
1. Definition of Bullying:
- Bullying is a prevalent form of aggression in elementary and middle schools.
- Types: Involves physical, verbal, or psychological attacks, including harassment and intimidation.
2. Effective Prevention and Intervention:
- Addressing both the individuals involved and the social context is crucial for effective prevention and intervention.
3. Seven Habits for Professionals:
- Be respectful.
- Demonstrate empathy.
- Be credible.
- Actively listen.
- Affirm positive behaviors.
- Act as a positive role model concerning accountability.
- Take time to place youth as a priority.
4. Gender-Based Bullying:
- Bullies may abuse classmates based on gender expression (outward appearance).
- Gender identity (one's internal sense of identity as a gendered person) is also a target.
Economically Disadvantaged Students & Students Experiencing Homelessness
1. Basic Challenges:
- Children who are economically disadvantaged or experiencing homelessness may arrive at school hungry and sleepy.
2. McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act:
- Mandates streamlined enrollment procedures for children experiencing homelessness.
- Eliminates barriers such as the need for previous school records, documentation of residency, and immunization records.
- Employing liaisons to advocate for the rights of students experiencing homelessness is a crucial aspect.
- The act subsidizes full participation in school events for students experiencing homelessness.
Students with Physical and Mental Challenges
1. Positive Language in Social Work Practice:
- Avoid labeling children with physical and mental challenges as disabled or handicapped.
- Emphasize strengths and abilities when referring to children facing challenges.
2. Childhood Mental Disorders:
- Definition: Childhood mental disorder is a general term encompassing all mental disorders that begin and can be diagnosed in childhood. (e.g. Aspergers)
3. Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEA):
- Promotion of Rights: IDEA promotes the rights of students with challenges.
- Utilization of peer-reviewed research and scientifically based techniques for students with physical and mental challenges.
- Expanded definition of a parent to include foster parents and nonparent caregivers.
- Emphasis on a student's right to a free public education in the least restrictive environment, in conjunction with a student's Individualized Education Program (IEP).
- Bolstering educational experience expectations and requirements for teachers and other educational staff.
Teen Pregnancy
1. Misconceptions and Lack of Education:
- The assumption that teen parents understand family planning and preventative measures for pregnancy is often incorrect.
- Many teenagers are at risk due to a lack of education about the reproduction process and contraceptive use.
2. Gender Disparities in Consequences:
- Consequences of pregnancy for teenage girls are often more significant than for their male counterparts.
3. Impact on Education:
- Prenatal care can interrupt school attendance and extracurricular participation.
4. Social Work Support:
- SSWs play a crucial role in assisting teenagers and their families during this challenging time.
- Options: Explore enrolling in public assistance programs such as TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) and Medicaid.
5. Holistic Support Services:
- SSWs assist with various aspects, including nutrition, clothing, furniture, shelter, father involvement, transportation, and ensuring safe housing.