An expert purports social workers need to return to the juvenile corrections system as youth probation officers and reclaim the role of rehabilitators.
Social workers specialize in the biopsychosocial, comprehensive needs of youth offenders which allow them to address the intrapersonal needs of troubled children on a broad spectrum. They are trained to identify furtive issues that may be barriers in rehabilitation. Social workers ‘see the whole picture.’
Social Work and Juvenile Probation: Historical Tensions and Contemporary Convergences
Clark Peters, assistant professor at University of Missouri (MU), is considered an expert in child welfare, foster care, juvenile justice, restorative justice and social work. He compared the punitive approach of law enforcement personnel with the holistic approach of social workers. His conclusion highlights the special qualifications social workers encompass to address the person in environment (person:environment or PIE) perspective as opposed to the punitive measures implemented presently. (Continue below)
Social workers not only can work as counselors and facilitators for the children, but also are advocators for needed community services such as mental health, substance abuse, education, vocation and familial support.
“Social work and criminal justice have core differences in perspectives,” Peters said. “While law enforcement officers often bring a punitive, authoritative outlook that invites failure, social workers have a more therapeutic, holistic focus. Social workers are trained to identify and prevent potential failures, and they can manage issues as they arise.” MU News Bureau
Fundamentally, Peter’s professional advice would be considered more effective in terms of achieving the goal of rehabilitation. The skills of a social worker surround the psychological and social needs of a juvenile delinquent resulting in a more effective treatment plan and outcome.
It is widely accepted that children are ‘a product of their environment.’ This notion does not necessarily insinuate the parents are to blame for the child’s deviations as copious factors play a part in the child’s development. These factors may be of a biological, psychological or social nature (e.g., learning difficulties, mental illnesses and poverty). Social workers are experts in assessments to identify these problem areas.
Moms stressed out increase poor parenting skills
The role of social workers in the juvenile justice system has slowly eroded through the years by the replacement of law enforcement officers. According to the NASW, less than 2 percent of trained social workers are employed in the corrections system.
Self Awareness articles from Fran can be found here.
Follow Fran on TWITTER and FACEBOOK! Also, you can share by clicking Facebook ‘like,’ recommend or ‘subscribe’ for free above!
Sources:
Social workers should reclaim role in juvenile corrections system, MU researcher says
CRIMINAL JUSTICE SOCIAL WORK IN THE UNITED STATES: ADAPTING TO NEW CHALLENGES
Comments