After coming to North Carolina Central University I have distinct opinion of what the social work profession is. Before, when I was still in high school I had a poor general idea of social workers. I was aware that school social workers had a degree but, I was under the impression that such degree was not needed to work in a place like the department of social services and both positions carried the same title. I knew of someone who worked at DSS for many years and they had begun working there straight out of high school. I know now that I was wrong, however, was my predetermine opinion that much different than the public’s? The only reason I have a more precise knowledge of the field is because I am a social work major. However, the vast majority of the population are not social work majors and thus their impression is based on what they have experienced and seen. In this paper I argue the different publics views based on interviews, readings, and personal experience. I would to begin this paper with an authentic definition of the Social Work field. Social work practices involves facilitating change—in other words, working with others, not doing something to them or for them(Dubois). Most people and social workers would always use the world ‘help’ in some way or form when defining social workers. Which is true but the confusion come in when asked where they work, who they assist and how they differ from other helping professions. Social workers can be sustain abuse therapists, child welfare specialists, and school social workers. We are not limited to just the department of social services. They can work in nursing homes, hospitals, and even in legislation. I began my research trying to find a negative perspective of social w... ... middle of paper ... ... one of the things they are not expecting is negative attitude. To conclude, the public’s definition of social is inaccurate. However, I believe that with the right skills and positive attitude a person in this field can help change this negative perception. Although, I am aware of the challenges people in this profession face I am eager to face them and become an excellent social worker. References DuBois, B., & Miley, K. K. (2014). Social work: an empowering profession (Eighth ed.). Boston: Pearson. The Five Most Popular Social Work Careers. (n.d.). Masters In Social Work Online Program Online MSW Degree MSWUSC. Retrieved February 1, 2014, from http://msw.usc.edu/mswusc-blog/the-five-most-popular-social-work-careers/ (2004). The public perception of Social Work: Is it what we think?. The public perception of Social Work: Is it what we think?, 49(2), 1-12.
Popple , P. R., & Leighninger, L. (2011). Social work, social welfare, and american society. (8th ed.). Boston, MA: Pearson Education, Inc.
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Thompson, N (2005) Understanding Social Work: Preparing for Practice, Palgrave, MacMillan (Second Edition) Hampshire (Supplementary Course Reader)
To say the roles and tasks of a social worker were simple would surely bring out the opinion of many tired and overworked social workers that feel that statement is not at all correct. Not only is the profession extraordinary complex, it brings with it a sense of expectation or presumption that labels social workers no matter what level they work at. To those who understand how challenging this area of work is, would
The three articles conceive the concept of social work in a global context. First Razack & Badwall (2006) analyse social work education from two significant facts relevant in the North American context. One is globalization and its implications, as important changes have occurred since 9/11 terrorists attacks. The other fact is anti-oppression dialogue used in education institutions with a minor inspection of structural discrimination. These two impacting facts lead to transform social work education structure, in order to provide an effective professional response to emerging realities. Second, Fulcher
Wilson, K. Ruch, G. Lymbery, M. & Cooper, A (2008) Social Work an Introduction to Contemporary Practice; Essex: Pearson.
Social workers today play a large role in the American population. They are mediators to just about any problem that may occur in the world. When a child is in danger, a job is in danger, and a home is in danger a social worker is always called. These three scenarios are just a short list of all the things that make social workers a big part of today’s world. As a result of the high demand for social workers there are numerous ways one may pursue a career in social work. Some of the most popular are child welfare, hospice, and school systems. Each job differs and has their own pros and cons but they all have the goal of assisting their clients and improving their life situations. When looking at reviews one of the most difficult jobs in the
Wilson, K. et. al., 2011. Social Work ' Introduction to Contemporary Practice'. 2nd ed. Essex, England.: Pearson Education Ltd .
I will initially outline the main concepts and main perspectives from a selection of these authors, and aim to conclude, that is is the “sociological thinking” gained from “unpacking” this knowledge, that can be applied to Social Work today. “Social theory, consists of major authors, perspectives and key issues, there are many different strands, that although have obstacles, can be drawn together can be connected in the study of Sociological knowledge” Layder (2006, preface). Specifically I will look at the Professional competence Framework (2012) section 5.1 “be able to reflect on and take account of the impact of inequality, disadvantage and discrimination on those who use social work”
“Since the first social work class was offered in the summer of 1898 at Columbia University, social workers have led the way developing private and charitable organizations to serve people in need.” Being a social worker is a big deal to the community, it has been a around for a very long time dealing with different cases for high to low. “Today, Americans enjoy many privileges because early social workers saw miseries and injustices and took action, inspiring others along the way. Many of the benefits we take for granted came about because social workers—working with families and institutions—spoke out against abuse and neglect.” Being in this career is very powerful. “The social work profession celebrated its Centennial in 1998. That year, several important artifacts from across the country were donated to the Smithsonian Institution to commemorate 100 years of professional social work in the United
Social Work is a discipline that can be a very rewarding experience for both the worker and the client. The practice involves working with individuals, families, or groups who are struggling to cope with life`s challenges. The social worker must combine his or her personal qualities, creative abilities, and social concerns with the professional knowledge in order to help client’s social functioning or prevent social problems from developing (Bradford W. Sheafor, 2008, p. 34). Social work practice seeks to promote human well-being, while addressing the processes by which individuals and groups are marginalized or diminished in their capacity to participate as citizens (Ian O'Connor, 2006, p. 1).
For years, when I thought of Social Workers, I imagined a person coming into a client’s home and taking their kids away for neglect. Later, I found out that social workers could go into so many dimensions, such as clinical social workers, case mangers, and even administrative positions in agency settings. Furthermore, I realized that I was maturing into an adult. For example, when I began telling people of my decisions to become a social worker, a lot ...
Social work is of great significance worldwide aiming to bring about social change and development, cohesiveness within the society, empowerment and liberation of people, particularly those who are in need (International Federation of Social Workers & International Association of School of Social Work (IFSW & IASSW), 2014). The basic functions of social work includes Restoration, Provision of resources and Prevention. A Social Worker can be defined as an individual who is trained and qualified in the field of Social Work. He/she works with vulnerable people in an effort to bring about change in them and develop their social functioning. This is done in hopes of the individual meeting their social needs, identifying and finding solutions for