The comparative approach will enhance students capabilities for understanding how social policy development is related to political, economic, and cultural contexts. 6. evaluate policies affecting children and families through the use of government documents and other authoritative sources. The philosophies that undergird the legal frameworks which guide the major U.S. public institutions serving families and children are covered, including trends in the development of the rights of children and parents as individuals and the role of the state to protect children or to deal with juvenile offenders. The concept of family policy as developed in selected European countries provides contrasts with American policy formulation. The interface between the voluntary and public sectors are examined.
Students critically analyze current controversial topics about policies and practice issues.
They identify implementation barriers, alternative approaches to providing services, and processes that can lead to social exclusion of people of color, gays and lesbians, members of lower social classes or anyone else. The basic premises of many longstanding laws, policies and services are being challenged and reformulated. Therefore the course structure will focus upon current social policy initiatives and debates taking place about child care, health care for children, and changes affecting the child welfare and the juvenile justice system. Each student will participate in designated class projects. Guest speakers and panels will be utilized.