Social Work: Core Concepts
Unit Outlines

Social Work: Core Concepts

AI Generated Intermediate 60 hours 8 topics

Learning Objectives

7 objectives
  • Understand the historical development and key milestones of social work as a profession.
  • Analyze the core values and ethical principles that underpin social work practice.
  • Apply various social work theories and practice models to real-world scenarios.
  • Demonstrate cultural competence and awareness of diversity in social work contexts.
  • Evaluate social welfare policies and their impact on individuals and communities.
  • Develop skills in assessment, intervention, and trauma-informed practice.
  • Formulate strategies for advocacy and social change to promote social justice.

Content Outline

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Unit 4065 Comprehensive Outline

1. History of Social Work

1.1 Origins of Social Work

  • Early charitable movements and philanthropy
  • Industrial Revolution and social reform

1.2 Key Figures in Social Work

  • Jane Addams and Hull House
  • Mary Richmond and casework
  • Other influential pioneers

1.3 Major Movements and Milestones

  • Settlement house movement
  • Development of professional social work organizations
  • Evolution through 20th and 21st centuries

2. Values and Ethics in Social Work

2.1 Foundational Values

  • Service
  • Social justice
  • Dignity and worth of the person
  • Importance of human relationships

2.2 Ethical Principles

  • Confidentiality and privacy
  • Professional integrity
  • Competence and accountability

2.3 Ethical Decision-Making Models

  • NASW Code of Ethics overview
  • Managing ethical dilemmas

3. Social Work Theory and Practice Models

3.1 Theoretical Frameworks

  • Systems theory
  • Ecological perspective
  • Psychosocial theory

3.2 Practice Models

  • Strengths-based approach
  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
  • Solution-focused brief therapy
  • Person-centered practice

3.3 Application in Practice

  • Case examples
  • Selecting appropriate models for client needs

4. Diversity and Cultural Competence

4.1 Understanding Cultural Diversity

  • Definitions and importance
  • Multiculturalism and pluralism

4.2 Intersectionality

  • Concept and relevance
  • Impact on client identities and experiences

4.3 Developing Cultural Competence

  • Self-awareness and reflection
  • Communication skills
  • Adapting interventions for diverse populations

5. Social Welfare Policies and Programs

5.1 Overview of Social Welfare Systems

  • Types of social welfare (residual, institutional, developmental)
  • Historical development of welfare policies

5.2 Key Legislation and Programs

  • Social Security Act
  • Child welfare policies
  • Healthcare and housing programs

5.3 Advocacy and Policy Reform

  • Role of social workers in policy
  • Strategies for effective advocacy

6. Assessment and Intervention in Social Work

6.1 Principles of Assessment

  • Gathering client information
  • Strengths and needs assessment
  • Risk assessment

6.2 Intervention Planning

  • Setting goals and objectives
  • Selecting intervention strategies

6.3 Evaluation and Outcome Measurement

  • Monitoring progress
  • Adjusting plans as needed

7. Trauma-Informed Practice

7.1 Understanding Trauma

  • Types of trauma
  • Impact on brain and behavior

7.2 Principles of Trauma-Informed Care

  • Safety
  • Trustworthiness and transparency
  • Peer support
  • Empowerment and choice

7.3 Implementing Trauma-Informed Approaches

  • Creating safe environments
  • Trauma-sensitive communication

8. Advocacy and Social Change

8.1 Role of Social Workers as Advocates

  • Advocacy at micro, mezzo, and macro levels

8.2 Strategies for Advocacy

  • Community organizing
  • Policy advocacy
  • Public awareness campaigns

8.3 Addressing Systemic Inequalities

  • Identifying systemic barriers
  • Promoting social justice through practice
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Quick Information

Unit Social Work: Core Concepts
Difficulty Intermediate
Duration60 hours
Topics8
CreatedJul 20, 2026
GeneratedJul 20, 2026 09:38

Prerequisites

  • Basic understanding of human behavior and social systems
  • Introduction to social sciences or social work
  • Communication skills

Recommended Resources

  • National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Code of Ethics
  • Miley, K. K., O'Melia, M., & DuBois, B. (2017). Generalist Social Work Practice: An Empowering Approach. Pearson.
  • Barker, R. L. (2014). The Social Work Dictionary (6th ed.). NASW Press.
  • Hepworth, D. H., Rooney, R. H., Rooney, G. D., Strom-Gottfried, K., & Larsen, J. (2016). Direct Social Work Practice: Theory and Skills. Cengage Learning.
  • Journal of Social Work Values and Ethics
  • SAMHSA’s Concept of Trauma and Guidance for a Trauma-Informed Approach (2014)

Unit Topics

8
History of Social Work
Explore the historical origins and evolution of social work as a profession, including key figures,...
Values and Ethics in Social Work
Examine the foundational values and ethical principles that guide social work practice, emphasizing...
Social Work Theory and Practice Models
Investigate various theoretical frameworks and practice models used in social work, such as systems...
Diversity and Cultural Competence
Analyze the significance of cultural diversity and competence in social work practice, addressing is...
Social Welfare Policies and Programs
Examine the development and impact of social welfare policies and programs on individuals, families,...
Assessment and Intervention in Social Work
Learn the principles and techniques of assessment and intervention in social work practice, includin...
Trauma-Informed Practice
Explore the concept of trauma-informed practice in social work, emphasizing the recognition of traum...
Advocacy and Social Change
Discuss the role of social workers as advocates for social justice and change, including strategies...