Social work fields of practice, including child welfare, aging, mental health and developmental disabilities, health and criminal justice, are emphasized. Specific subjects will vary each time the course is offered. The subject will be announced the previous semester. Helps students integrate knowledge of human development, human behavior, and social situations gained in the liberal arts into a unique social work perspective useful for assessment and intervention. The course examines the interrelationships between the individual, family, small groups, organizations, and the community.
Special attention is given to diversity, cultural sensitivity, oppression, and discrimination.
Issues affecting children and families in American society. Emphasis on child abuse and neglect, developmentally disabled children, homeless children and families, chronically ill and disabled children, and services available to children and families. Policy issues related to the provision of adequate services and sources also will be considered. An introductory perspective on professional social work practice as a planned, purposeful process occurring over time, involving professional judgment and based on knowledge, values, and ethics of the social work profession. Emphasis is placed on understanding beginning generalist practice, including practice with systems of all sizes.