Argumentative Essay On Social Work

Social work shares some of its methods with other occupational groups, including counselors, public health nurses, psychologists, etc. Because of this, many people question if social work is a legitimate profession. Also, many people have different opinions on social work due to their views or perspectives in life. For example, some see the profession’s major function as helping individuals and families resolve their own difficulties. Others view social workers as pawns in the social welfare industry, and believe their main objective is to control the poor and the powerless. Basically, social work practices can be categorized as very conservative, conservative, liberal, or radical. These categories thus become broad lenses to view social work development. However, these views do not outline the entire picture. Social work’s history plays a big role in
Concerned about this, Jane Addams, who had a college degree, wanted to put her education and commitment to service into action. She decided to open a settlement house. The idea originated from Tonybee Hall, in London. Together with her friend, Ellen Starr, Addams founded Hull House in the Chicago slums. Together they studied the conditions that poor people lived in, and observed the structural elements of poverty, so they could create a specific agenda of services and reform. Hull House soon offered daycare, educational programs, etc. Another big concern of hers was child labor. Addams and her staff fought hard for changes in these conditions. In my opinion, Jane Addams was one of the most influential persons during this time. She was a feminist, social activist, and advocate for ideas, laws, etc. Her work is the basis of social works foundational beliefs. Social workers recognize a need and find a way to alleviate that need. Addams helped people so they could help