Social work

Social work, activity of trained social workers that has as its aim the alleviation of social problems. Casework, group work, and community organization are employed. Casework involves close cooperation with individuals or families who are under mental, physical, or social handicaps. Group work developed from that in early social settlements and involves group education and recreational activities. Community organization involves the identification of community problems and the coordination of local welfare services, both public and private, in solving them. A social worker's training may include psychology, sociology, law, medicine, and criminology. The person might specialize in family service, child welfare, or medical, psychiatric, or correctional social work.