Content text DAY 1: Introduction to Social Work - History and Evolution.pdf
Instructions 1. Read in full with comprehension. 2. Slow down. Translate to your local language (in your mind) if necessary. 3. For visual learners, you may write your copy in your review journal. 4. Once done reading, repeat as many times as you can because you will not go back to this topic ever again. Reminder ⚠️ 1. Do not share outside our group. Uphold copyright policies. 2. Maintain the highest form of integrity, honesty, and accountability. 3. Tag your review buddies in the community post instead of sending them a copy in Messenger or email. 4. Seek consent when reproducing. DAY 1: Introduction to Social Work - History and Evolution Overview Social work is a dynamic and evolving profession dedicated to helping individuals, families, groups, and communities enhance their well-being and achieve their full potential. Understanding the history and evolution of social work is crucial for grasping the core principles and values that guide the practice today. History of Social Work 1. Early Beginnings: ● Ancient Societies: Social welfare practices can be traced back to ancient civilizations where communities provided mutual aid to members in need. ● Middle Ages: Religious institutions, particularly the Catholic Church, played a significant role in caring for the poor and sick through charity work. 2. The Elizabethan Poor Laws (1601): ● Established a system of poor relief in England, distinguishing between the "deserving" and "undeserving" poor. ● Laid the groundwork for modern social welfare policies and public assistance programs. 3. The Charity Organization Society (COS) Movement (Late 19th Century): ● Emerged in response to the need for more organized and systematic approaches to charity work. ● Focused on "scientific charity" and the professionalization of social services. 4. The Settlement House Movement: ● Began in the late 19th century with the establishment of settlement houses like Hull House in Chicago by Jane Addams. ● Aimed at addressing urban poverty by providing education, healthcare, and social services within communities. 5. Professionalization of Social Work: ● Early 20th Century: Social work began to be recognized as a distinct profession, with the establishment of social work schools and training programs. ● 1917: Mary Richmond published "Social Diagnosis," laying the foundation for casework practice and the development of social work theory and methods. 6. Social Work in the Philippines: ● Pre-colonial Period: Community-based welfare practices were evident in indigenous Filipino societies. ● Spanish and American Periods: Introduction of Western social welfare concepts and systems. ● Post-WWII Era: Establishment of formal social work education and professional organizations, such as the Philippine Association of Social Workers, Inc. (PASWI). Evolution of Social Work Practice 1. Shift from Charity to Rights-Based Approach: @limitlesscoachingph
● Emphasis on human rights, social justice, and empowerment of individuals and communities. ● Recognition of the importance of addressing systemic issues and advocating for policy change. 2. Integration of Multidisciplinary Approaches: ● Incorporation of insights from psychology, sociology, anthropology, and other disciplines to enrich social work practice. 3. Expansion of Practice Settings: ● Social workers now operate in diverse settings, including schools, hospitals, correctional facilities, community organizations, and corporate environments. 4. Use of Technology: ● Adoption of digital tools and platforms to enhance service delivery, communication, and data management. Key Concepts and Applications to Social Work in the Philippines 1. Holistic Perspective: ● Concept: Social work adopts a holistic approach, considering the individual within their environment and addressing various aspects of their lives (physical, emotional, social, economic). ● Application: ○ Situation: A family in an urban poor community in Manila struggling with multiple issues like unemployment, health problems, and lack of education. ○ Social Work Response: Implement an integrated intervention plan addressing livelihood training, health services access, educational support, and counseling to improve the overall well-being of the family. 2. Person-in-Environment (PIE): ● Concept: Understanding that an individual's behavior and well-being are influenced by their interactions with their environment. ● Application: ○ Situation: A child in a rural area experiencing academic difficulties due to domestic violence and community violence. ○ Social Work Response: Conduct a thorough assessment considering the child's family dynamics, community safety, and school environment. Implement interventions involving family counseling, community safety initiatives, and school support programs. 3. Strengths-Based Approach: ● Concept: Focusing on individuals' strengths and resources rather than their deficits. ● Application: ○ Situation: A single mother in Cebu with limited financial resources but strong community ties and crafting skills. ○ Social Work Response: Empower the mother by connecting her with local women's groups, facilitating skill development workshops, and supporting the establishment of a small crafting business leveraging her strengths. 4. Advocacy and Social Justice: ● Concept: Social workers advocate for social change and policies that promote equity and justice. ● Application: ○ Situation: Indigenous communities in Mindanao facing land rights issues and marginalization. ○ Social Work Response: Engage in community organizing, work with local leaders, and collaborate with NGOs to advocate for policy changes protecting indigenous land rights. Conduct awareness campaigns and provide legal assistance to support the community's fight for justice. 5. Cultural Competence: ● Concept: Recognizing and respecting cultural diversity in practice. ● Application: @limitlesscoachingph
○ Situation: A Muslim community in Mindanao requires culturally sensitive health and social services. ○ Social Work Response: Develop and implement programs that respect and integrate the community's cultural and religious practices. Train social workers and healthcare providers on cultural competence, and engage community leaders in program planning and delivery to ensure cultural relevance and acceptance. Conclusion Understanding the history and evolution of social work provides a foundation for appreciating the profession's core values, principles, and practices. As you embark on your journey to become a Registered Social Worker, remember the rich legacy of social work and the ongoing commitment to making a positive impact on society. Study Tips: ● Reflect on how historical developments have shaped modern social work practices. ● Consider how social work values, such as social justice and human rights, are applied in various practice settings. ● Engage in discussions with peers and mentors to deepen your understanding of the profession's history and evolution. Congrats on finishing this lesson, future RSW! Your understanding of the past will guide your future practice and contributions to the field of social work. ✨ 🚀To the limitless you, Coaches Aileen, Janis, Jem, Kaye, and Reiner @limitlesscoachingph