Discussion: Policies and Social Problems

Why is it important for social workers to understand policy? When you think of policies, you may tend to think of the federal policies that support services such as Medicare and state policies that support education and welfare services. However, sometimes the policies that have the greatest impact on clients are the policies of agencies and organizations.
Note: An “agency or organizational policy” is a policy. For example, it might be part of a county welfare agency that requires an administrator at a juvenile correction facility to report any individual that is an illegal immigrant that comes to that facility.
 
In this Discussion, you will identify a policy at an agency or organization with which you are familiar. It can be a public agency, a for-profit human service provider, or a not-for-profit community agency. Describe the organization, the policy, and the social problem it addresses.
By Day 3
Post the policy at an agency or organization with which you are familiar. Describe the organization, the policy, and the social problem it addresses.

Required Readings

SOCW 6361 Webliography
These websites will be required throughout the semester. Become familiar with these websites, especially when doing research for your assignments.
Jansson, B. S. (2018). Becoming an effective policy advocate: From policy practice to social justice. (8th ed.). Pacific Grove, CA: Brooks/Cole Cengage Learning Series.
Chapter 2, “Articulating Four Rationales for Participating in Policy Advocacy” (pp. 31-69)
Chapter 3, “Obtaining Skills and Competencies for Policy Advocacy” (pp. 70–98)
 
Martin, M. E. (2012). Philosophical and religious influences on social welfare policy in the United States: The ongoing effect of Reformed theology and social Darwinism on attitudes toward the poor and social welfare policy and practice. Journal of Social Work, 12(1), 51–64. doi:10.1177/1468017310380088.
Note: Retrieved from Walden Library databases.
 
Moyes, J., & Quadagno, J. (2002). Political theories of the welfare state. Social Service Review, 76(1), 34–57.
Note: Retrieved from Walden Library databases.
 
Optional Resources

MSW home page
Use this link to access the MSW home page, which provides resources for your social work program.