SW 7600 - Social Welfare Policy

3 Credit Hours
Description
This course focuses on the historical development and implementation of contemporary social welfare policies and programs in the United States. Critical analysis of the policy making process is emphasized. The influence of social values on the policy development process is highlighted relative to the differential allocation of material and social resources. Specific attention is given to understanding roles performed by social workers as community practitioners to affect change, and acknowledging the interplay among legislative, judicial and administrative levels of government. Although the primary focus is on federal/state government policies; presentations will incorporate policy development at the local as well as organizational/agency levels when appropriate. The current provisions and service delivery systems emanating from social welfare policies are examined, with special attention given to society’s most vulnerable population defined by status, age, health or economic circumstances.