It includes principles about the way something should be, typically expressed as goals. It can include programs intended to meet the goals of the policy. There are many examples of policy. The National Association of Social Workers publishes its policies in a book called Social Work Speaks . These are positions of this professional organization on issues such as homelessness.
Social agencies have policies which guide their operations and activities.
For instance some rehabilitation centers will not accept pregnant women. Governments also have policies. The United States government can legislate policy by passing laws, such as the Americans with Disabilities Act. In order to research policy, you must know what level of policy you are interested in, whether it be agency, local, state, or national. You might want to discuss with your instructor the type of policy you will examine.