All written assignments will use non-discriminatory language. It is designed to acquaint students with an overview of the issues and policies involved in social welfare and to assist students who are undecided in deciding whether to major in social work. For those students who continue as social work majors, the course is designed to provide a basic framework to understand social welfare issues and policies. A systems approach provides the basic framework for understanding the generalist practice perspective and planning interventions with multiple systems. Assessments and interventions must address both intrapsychic and environmental strengths and stressors.
Generalist practice involves assessment and interventions at the micro, mezzo, and macro levels.
Practice is based on the problem solving process and knowledge, skills, and values which are applicable across settings with diverse populations and in a variety of problem areas. Critical analysis of social problems is inherent in generalist practice and results in both practice and policy responses. Empirical research provides a solid foundation for both education and practice and generalist practitioners are expected to participate in practice evaluation activities. Generalist practice often requires the social worker to function in multiple roles depending on the needs of the client system. This course explores the major social problems, political ideology influencing these problems, program and policy initiatives, and philosophies of social welfare programs.