The Importance of Social Work for Society

Unfortunately, the world filled with vulnerable and disadvantaged people. We need social workers who are passionate about making a difference in the lives of these people in society. Through their commitment to bringing about positive social change social workers play a prominent role in improving the lives of those who need it most. Social workers are critical members of society who work diligently to relieve suffering and better the lives of all people in need, regardless of age, race and gender. Social workers are there to help.

Whether it’s poverty, addiction, abuse, unemployment, disability, mental illness, discrimination or anything other issues, a social worker will always work to the best of their abilities to make sure these issues are dealt with in order to improve others circumstances and overall life. Social work involves working with individuals, groups and communities, including some of the most vulnerable people in society. They work in aid of social change and to help the oppressed and disadvantaged by protecting their well-being. As Michael P. Dentato (author of “Queer Communities (Competency and Positionality)” in the Encyclopedia of Social Work) suggests, social work helps those who don’t have a voice to speak up in the world, to promote social justice and equality.

Within the field of social work, there are many different areas and people that they can pursue and focus on. There are different skills needed for the different specialisations. Public health social workers are responsible for helping people who have been diagnosed with chronic diseases and disorders which is one of the hardest things a person could go through. Social workers provide different services such as educating and advising patients and family members, different types of counselling, making referrals to other services, organising support groups and many other services. These social workers are often employed at health care centers, assisted living homes or in hospitals.

Addictions and mental health social workers offer support and services to those struggling with alcohol and drug abuse or low mental health, such as connecting them with facilities that serve to teach healthier behaviours to get patients back on track. Services that social workers provide include counselling, intervening during crises, client advocacy, prevention strategies and educating the individual and their family to assist in understanding and dealing with the patient’s problems.

Family, child or school social work involves providing assistance and to improve social and psychological functioning of children and their families. These social workers can help to arrange adoptions, locate foster homes and address different kinds of abuse. In schools they address problems such as truancy, bad behavior, poor grades and other issues. These social workers attempt to maximize academic functioning of children as well as improving the family’s overall well-being.

Works Cited:

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