What is Social Work Really?

By Ben

In theory what is it?

The systems within our society today, indirectly and directly oppress "other groups". A social worker seeks to address the situation and empower individuals who are facing problems.

What is it used for?

Helping people better cope with their situations.

What does the major actually entail - work-wise?

Studying a lot about the theories and history of oppression. Social Work has a lot to do with human behavior, psychology, economics, policies and political systems

What kind of jobs do you get with it?

You can work for just about any social service agency. Most students pick an target groups, for example elderly, immigrants populations, children, victims of domestic violence ect.

What are the fellow students like (personalitywise) in it?

Generally some of the nicest people I have ever met. However many of my classmates are seeking to work social problems they have personally encountered such as drugs, domestic violence ect. Honestly it is a wide array of people, but generally virtuous people.

Common Misconceptions

That anyone can do social work, the truth is a good social worker needs a lot of patience and determination.