research topics in social work and community development

225 Social Work Research Topics For College Students – Ideas for College Students

Social work is an important job that helps improve people’s lives, families, and communities. Research is a key part of social work studies. It allows you to look deeply into social issues, understand different views, and contribute to the growing knowledge in this field.

Picking the right research topic can be tough. That’s why we’ve made a list of 225 interesting social work research topics. These topics cover many areas, such as child welfare, mental health, addiction, community development, and social justice.

This list is meant to give you ideas, make you think critically, and provide knowledge to help make a real difference in social work.

Importance of Choosing a Relevant Topic

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Picking a good research topic is super important for a few reasons. First, it makes sure your research fits with current issues and trends in social work. By choosing a topic that deals with challenges happening now or builds on existing knowledge, you can contribute to ongoing talks and help develop effective solutions and rules.

Also, a good topic increases the chances that your research findings will be helpful to social workers, policymakers, and communities. Social work directly impacts people’s lives, and by researching important matters, you can potentially create positive change and inform decision-making.

Furthermore, a well-chosen topic can keep you motivated and involved throughout the research process. When you are truly interested and passionate about the subject, you are more likely to approach the research with enthusiasm and hard work, leading to better results.

It is also important to consider if there are enough resources and data available for your chosen topic. Selecting a topic with plenty of existing writings, reliable data sources, and people to research can make the process smoother and increase the credibility of your findings.

Moreover, a good topic can open up opportunities to collaborate with organizations, agencies, or communities actively working in that area, providing opportunities to apply your research and further explore the subject matter.

Recommended Readings: “ Data Communication And Networking Micro Project Topics: Amazing Guide! “.

Tips for Selecting a Research Topic

Picking a topic for research is an important first step. Your topic should be something you truly care about and want to explore deeply. Here are some tips for choosing an engaging and meaningful social work research topic:

Find Areas You Really Like

Make a list of the social issues or groups of people that you are most interested in. Think about personal experiences, volunteer work, internships, or classes that made you curious and want to learn more. Having a real interest will keep you motivated throughout the whole research process.

Look at Current Information

Look through recent journals, books, and reliable websites related to your interests. Note any gaps in knowledge or questions that come up from the existing information. These gaps can point you toward relevant research topics.

Consider Real-World Impact

Choose a topic that has the potential to inform policies, practices, or ways to help that can create positive social change. Research that can be applied in real-world situations is especially valuable in social work.

Make Sure Data Exists

Ensure there is enough data available to support an in-depth study of your chosen topic. This may include access to case studies, survey data, records, or people to participate in your research.

Narrow Your Focus

While social issues are often very broad and complex, a focused research topic is easier to manage and allows for deeper exploration. Narrow your topic to a specific population, geographic area, or part of the larger issue.

Get Input from Others

Talk to professors, professionals in the field, or experienced researchers for their insights and suggestions on potential topics. Their expertise can help you refine your ideas and identify promising areas for research.

Think About Ethics

As a social worker, it’s important to consider the ethical impacts of your research, such as protecting participants’ rights and well-being, addressing potential biases, and being sensitive to cultural differences.

Be Flexible

While it’s important to have a clear research focus, be open to adjusting your topic as you learn more from reading materials or encounter new perspectives during the research process.

Choosing a well-defined and meaningful research topic is the base for producing valuable social work research that can add to knowledge and drive positive change.

Social work covers a wide range of issues and groups of people, making it a rich and diverse area for research. The 225 topics listed here are just a small part of the many important areas ready for exploration.

From child well-being and mental health to criminal justice and human rights, each topic offers a chance to examine complex societal challenges deeply and contribute to developing impactful solutions.

As students start their research journeys, they have the potential to uncover new insights, challenge existing ways of thinking, and ultimately improve the lives of individuals, families, and communities.

With genuine interest, hard work, and a commitment to ethical and rigorous research, social work students can make meaningful contributions that drive positive change in our constantly changing world.

How do I know if a research topic is relevant to social work?

A relevant research topic in social work addresses current societal issues, aligns with the goals of social work practice, and contributes to the advancement of knowledge in the field.

What are some examples of social work research topics related to social justice?

Examples include investigating disparities in access to healthcare, analyzing the impact of systemic racism on marginalized communities, and evaluating policies aimed at promoting social equity.

How can I narrow down a broad research topic in social work?

You can narrow down a broad research topic by focusing on a specific population, geographic location, or aspect of the issue. Conducting a literature review can also help identify gaps and areas for further exploration.

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Introduction—community development in social work education: themes for a changing world

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Catherine Forde, Deborah Lynch, Athena Lathouras, Introduction—community development in social work education: themes for a changing world, Community Development Journal , Volume 56, Issue 4, October 2021, Pages 561–565, https://doi.org/10.1093/cdj/bsab027

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Community Development occupies a marginal and sometimes uncertain place in Social Work education, particularly in the Global North ( Hanna and Ife, 2019 ; Westoby et al. , 2019 ) leading to questions about its relevance in a neoliberal Social Work environment that focuses on individuals and on actions to manage risk. This environment restricts collective and generative practices that attempt to engage groups and communities in processes of social change. In contemporary global conditions that bring pressing new challenges and widening polarities, Community Development’s place in Social Work needs urgent re-examination ( Forde and Lynch, 2015 ). What is the place of Community Development within Social Work education? How can Community Development pedagogy enable Social Work students to identify and pursue social justice and human rights goals? In what ways can qualifying Social Work education prepare practitioners to use Community Development in a range of contexts and settings? What can Community Development knowledge and ideas bring to the new and emerging challenges facing Social Work?

In 2018, the Joint World Social Work, Education and Social Development (SWSD) conference in Dublin drew social work educators and practitioners from around the globe. Participating in a workshop on Community Development in Social Work education, it became clear that educators from across the five continents were grappling with the effects of neoliberalism on Social Work. In every country neoliberal policies and practices have moved education and practice towards individualised, behavioural and problem-based approaches and understandings ( Fenton, 2019 ). Educators expressed concern about the marginalization of Community Development within Social Work training but strongly agreed that teaching Community Development on Social Work programmes enables students to think critically and consider collective and grassroots approaches that can both complement and enhance their practice as Social Workers.

Since 2018 much has changed globally and the emergence of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has thrown many important issues into relief, including democracy versus authoritarianism, personal freedoms versus public safety, economy versus environment and colonialism versus decolonialization. Rosie Meade’s editorial in the Community Development Journal ( April 2020 ) identifies a set of key social, political, economic and environmental questions that arise in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. In her response, Sue Kenny writes about how COVID-related circumstances are creating new challenges for groups and communities. She argues for critical changes to social arrangements and the need for community organising drawing on fundamental principles of social and environmental justice and deliberative democracy ( Kenny, 2020 ). She highlights the urgency of what lies ahead and how current responses will be crucial in finding a way forward to address global concerns and future sustainability in the context of climate change. Similar questions confront Social Work. Fong et al. (2018 ) identify twelve ‘grand challenges’ (GCSW) for American Social Work, however most of these challenges also face Social Work beyond the United States. Fong et al. speak of meeting these challenges through creating ‘new partnerships, deep engagement with local communities, and innovations to strengthen individual and collective assets’ (ibid, p. 10; see also Field et al. , 2020 ). This task will involve ‘everyone: families, communities, researchers, educators, practitioners and policymakers—all working together to achieve social progress’ (ibid, p. 16). The grand challenges include responding to environmental change with creativity, using digital technology for social good, reducing economic inequality and achieving economic opportunity and justice. This themed section will address these key areas and will be based on three main premises. Firstly, grounding Social Work teaching in values such as social justice and human rights, critical thinking and working collectively helps to nurture dynamic, innovative forms of practice that can respond to community and societal issues. Secondly, critical and network thinking can foster new ideas and facilitate influence in key areas including decision-making and policymaking where new thinking is needed now more than ever. Thirdly, engaging in a vigorous interchange of knowledge, practice and skills between disciplines like Community Development and Social Work strengthens these areas of work, side-steps separate and distinct professional silos and emphasises the importance of humanistic values and approaches.

The authors of the five articles are social work educators who teach Community Development and Community Pedagogy on Social Work programmes in different countries and contexts in the Global South and Global North. All are educators and researchers and several have experience of engaging in policymaking processes. Inclusion of ideas and experiences from different countries and parts of the world provides a wide-angle lens to explore these critical themes and discuss challenges for teaching social work students in the contemporary context. This themed section offers a unique opportunity to share rich pedagogical and practice knowledge from a wide range of contexts.

In the first paper Lynch, Lathouras and Forde identify the need for pedagogical approaches to prepare social workers for shifting and demanding social, economic, political and environmental conditions. Through the lens of key community development principles—connected, relational and critical—the paper explores the challenges and opportunities facing educators, social work students and practitioners. The authors argue for the generation of a process of collaborative critical inquiry between educators, students and the wider social work field. The goal is to engage students in reflective praxis enriched by contemporary theory and research and to foster a deep perspective and engagement on global and local issues that produces adaptable, critical and connected practitioners.

In a world in which borders have become more porous but also more contested, it is crucial to explore how a sense of community and agency can be preserved by those who move across geographical boundaries. Marlowe and Chubb’s paper presents a longitudinal digital ethnography that examines how people from refugee backgrounds maintain relationships and community when separated from their communities of origin, and how online activism emanates from their situations. The paper argues that migrants’ use of online spaces represents an opportunity to explore the implications for social work and community development. Using the theory of the social organization of difference, this paper articulates the challenges and possibilities of digitization for social work and community development pedagogy and practice.

The climate crisis demands responses that traverse north–south global divides and bring critical ecological approaches to the forefront of practices and pedagogy in social work and cognate disciplines like community development. Located within the contemporary socio-geopolitical context Ranta-Tyrkkö and Närhi mark out a new phase of ‘ecosocial transition in social work’ which they discuss as an emerging form of community-based practice. Drawing on primary discursive research into students’ attitudes to the introduction of ecosocial pedagogy to the social work curriculum, the paper isolates and discusses the key elements of this pedagogy. The aim of the paper is to nurture and empower a new generation of practitioners equipped to engage in ecosocial practices with relevant knowledge, and with a range of conceptual as well as practical tools.

The global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic necessitates a renewed emphasis on critical social work practice approaches. In India, the catastrophic effect of the pandemic compounds the prevailing neoliberal landscape in which poverty is widespread and elites including corporations exert increasing control. In her paper Vyas reflects on the ‘messiness’ and complexity of the Indian community practice field, in which social work, community development and Community Organization co-exist. She questions how community practice educators should respond to the continuing concerns of poverty, inequality and vulnerability. The paper concludes by arguing for a critical, counter-hegemonic and value-infused curriculum to develop future community practitioners capable of political analysis and action.

The shifting social, economic and political context and its implications for community development practice and pedagogy on social work programmes is the theme of Anleu-Hernández and García-Moreno’s paper. The paper examines the continuing socio-economic crisis in Spain and its impact on social policy, the social work profession and on professional social work formation. Drawing on an in-depth documentary review the paper seeks to establish the extent and nature of community development pedagogy on social work programmes in Spain and specifically in Catalonia. The paper reignites debate about the position of community development in both the education and practice of the social work discipline.

A post-COVID-19 world is not yet imagined. As we write this editorial, the COVID-19 pandemic continues as an unfolding tragedy with deep and devastating impacts across many regions and countries of the world. Now more than ever, we see the fault lines which expose and reveal the economic, health and social disparities between peoples within and between nations and the environmental crisis that affects everyone. Grounded in the pre-eminent value of social justice as embodied in the practices and perspectives of social workers, in this themed section we move forward together with hope to meet the challenges of this human crisis of our times.

Fenton , J. ( 2019 ) Talkin’ about iGeneration: a new era of individualistic social work practice? British Journal of Social Work , 50 , 1238 – 1257 , accessed at: https://doi.org/10.1093/bjsw/bcz099 (20 August 2020) .

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Field , R. S. , Chung , D. , Fleay , C. ( 2020 ) Working with restrictions: a scoping review of social work and human service practice with people seeking asylum in the global north , British Journal of Social Work , 51 ( 1 ), 57 – 76 , accessed at: https://doi.org/10.1093/bjsw/bcaa006 (20 August 2020) .

Fong , R. , Lubben , J. , Barth , R. P. ( 2018 ) Grand challenges for social work and society , Oxford Scholarship Online , 1–18 , accessed at: 10.1093/oso/9780190858988.001.0001 (1 July 2020) .

Forde , C. and Lynch , D. ( 2015 ) Social Work and Community Development: A Critical Practice Perspective , Palgrave Macmillan , Basingstoke, UK .

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Hanna , A. and Ife , J. ( 2019 ) Community development and social work – creating field education opportunities for social work students , New Community , 16 ( 4 ), 48 – 51 .

Kenny , S. ( 2020 ) Covid-19 and community development , Community Development Journal , 55 ( 4 ), 699 – 703 , accessed at: https://doi.org/10.1093/cdj/bsaa020 (29 October 2020) .

Meade , R. R. ( 2020 ) CDJ editorial – what is this Covid-19 crisis? Community Development Journal , 55 ( 3 ), 379 – 381 , accessed at: . https://doi.org/10.1093/cdj/bsaa013 (29 October 2020) .

Westoby , P. , Lathouras , A. , Shevellar , L. ( 2019 ) Radicalising community development within social work through popular education – a participatory action research project , British Journal of Social Work , 49 ( 8 ), 2207 – 2225 accessed at: https://doi.org/10.1093/bjsw/bcz022 (1 July 2020) .

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Social Work Research Topics

Table of contents

1 What is a Social Work Research Paper?
2 Tips for Selecting a Good Topic for a Social Work Research Paper
3.1 Social Work Research Topics for Beginners
3.2 Social Work Research Topics for College Students
3.3 Human Services Research Paper Topics
3.4 Interesting Social Work Research Paper Topics
3.5 Controversial Social Work Research Paper Topics
3.6 Social Work Thesis Topics
3.7 Critical Social Work Research Paper
3.8 Disputable Social Work Research Topics
3.9 Social Work Topics for Presentation
3.10 Social Work Research Paper for Literature Review

With these topics in mind, you can explore further into the field of social work and gain a better understanding of how research can help shape our society for the better. Read on to learn what is a social research paper, review helpful tips to select one, and explore a list of the 100 best social work research topics ideas.

What is a Social Work Research Paper?

A social work research paper is a document that presents facts, analysis, and research findings about a particular social work topic. Students often find it overwhelming to find the best social work topics for their research papers. Also, it’s not always possible to buy research paper and avoid the investigation altogether. Researching and writing about these topics can help students understand the causes of social issues and how to address them best.

It also provides insights into how to improve services for those who are most vulnerable and in need of assistance. The most popular social work research topics are those that treat issues of this kind, and they can be excellent as research papers.

However, focusing on the most popular research topics for social work is not the only option. It is important for students to analyze the topic they like and learn more about it. Even better if the work can somehow help solve a problem in their community. A research paper with factually accurate data and information can help you make your project look more engaging and informative. But it can also have an impact right away.

For these reasons, writing a research paper on social work can be a rewarding experience for students. It allows them to expand their knowledge along with developing a sense of empathy towards the community. Furthermore, it is important to select a topic that is relevant to the field of social work and provides enough scope for further exploration.

Tips for Selecting a Good Topic for a Social Work Research Paper

There are many topics in the field of social work that are important for understanding various aspects of social problems, their causes, and effective solutions. Research in this area can take many forms, including quantitative studies and qualitative interviews.

To write an effective social work paper, students should learn how to identify and assess topics that can add value to their project. Selecting topics that allow you to develop evidence-based interventions and include the necessary amount of information can be helpful. When selecting a topic, consider the various aspects of social work, such as its history, current trends, legal implications, and ethical considerations. Generally speaking, choose a topic that is flexible enough to conduct research and analysis.

Additionally, look for topics that allow you to focus on one particular area without getting overwhelmed by the amount of information available. Having access to adequate resources such as journals and books that provide in-depth information about your chosen topic is also helpful. Also, don’t forget to interview a social worker active in the field to have first-hand impressions. This will make it easier to select a good topic for your social work research paper.

You can also consider getting help for your research paper from professional writers. They can help you manage all aspects of the process, including choosing a suitable topic. In some cases, you can also get a “ best reserach paper writing service ” option. This allows you to get the job done by a professional or get a piece that you only have to fine-tune. Another piece of advice is to do a quick scan of available resources, both offline and online. Moreover, choose a unique and practical topic that differentiates you from other students.

Here are some additional tips to help you select a good topic for a social work research paper.

Read Extensively. Reading widely about a general topic that interests you is crucial. Consider writing down the ideas, information, and sources that interest you the most. You can then review the notes to select a topic. Consider your interests and expertise in the field of social work. If you are passionate about a particular topic or have prior experience in it, then this could be the perfect place to start your research. Doing quick research on each potential topic before choosing one will help you decide whether it’s worth writing.

Select a Relevant Topic. Make sure the topic you choose is relevant to the field of social work you intend to work on or you’ve been tasked to analyse. An irrelevant topic that does not have any connection with the subject will fail to interest the readers. This may lead to a dull paper or, if you’re a student, to a low mark or a fail. Select a topic related to social work application theories. Think about the latest trends in social work and identify topics that are currently being discussed or researched by other people. Explore different current events related to social work and determine if there is anything relevant that could be best for your paper.

Choose a Specific Topic . A research topic that is too broad or too narrow can make it difficult to carry out research. If the topic is too wide, you may end up writing in general and not including the information that is necessary. Selecting a specific topic will allow you to conduct detailed research and provide reasonable arguments and solutions. With so many potential topics to choose from, it can be difficult to narrow down the choices and select one. Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to make this process easier. Firstly, understand the context of your research paper and set specific goals to select a topic that is both meaningful and manageable.

Consider a Flexible Topic. Go with a topic that is flexible and allows you to conduct research and analysis. Find a unique topic that matches your field of interest and add value to your research paper. Choosing a flexible topic will help you provide real benefits to the readers. A flexible topic will provide you with numerous opportunities to explore different aspects of a particular issue or event. Additionally, by selecting a flexible topic that allows for multiple arguments and solutions, you can ensure that your paper is comprehensive and engaging.

Discuss With Others. Another great way to select a good social work topic for a research paper is by communicating with other students and researchers. You can also discuss it with your professors and learn about their opinions. By discussing with other students or professors, you can get different perspectives on potential topics and gain valuable insights. Moreover, talking to other people about their experiences in social work can help you discover your interest and select the best possible topic for your research paper .

Selecting a good topic for your social work research paper may feel overwhelming. With careful thought and consideration, you can find a relevant and appropriate one for the paper. To help you in this process, here is a broad list of social work research topics.

Social Work Research Topics for Beginners

Social work research papers are a great way to explain the complex issues affecting individuals, families, and communities. Newcomers can still write a persuasive research paper in this field by sharing their own experiences.

If you are a beginner, then the following research topics for social work can be best for you:

The impacts that clinical depression has on adolescents
Impact of alcoholism on family members and personal lifestyle
Hardships and happiness in adopting a teenager
How to become social workers? What are the legal requirements?
Why do we need more women leaders in our community?
Why it’s important to raise awareness to stop domestic violence?
The importance of women denouncing domestic violence
The effects of alcohol on a person’s behavior and sociality
Depression and society: stigmas and stereotypes
The best strategies for ensuring the health and basic education for every child

Social Work Research Topics for College Students

College students can benefit from performing in-depth research on a specific topic and applying theories, concepts, and principles of social work in their research papers. To help you select a specific topic of your interest, here are some popular ones in the field of social work:

Possible solutions to limit child abuse in society
How to fight the bullying of disabled children
Effects of domestic violence on family members
Raising a child as a single parent: challenges and strategies
Helping bipolar patients: effective strategies
How divorce impacts children’s lifestyle and upbringing
Reasons and prevention of the increase in suicide rates among students
Drugs abuse among teenagers: an insight
The impact of interracial adoption on children’s development
Fighting human trafficking: strategies and issues

There are a few common problems that may arise when writing a social work research paper, such as difficulty in finding relevant sources, inability to properly structure the paper or difficulty in staying focused on the topic.

Human Services Research Paper Topics

Students interested in delivering care and support to individuals or communities in need can select a human services topic for their research paper. You can find a topic related to helping empower people, providing guidance in their everyday lives, or offering resources to meet their needs.

Here are a few example topics that you may select:

An essay on homophobia
Causes and impacts of child trafficking
Effective ways to deal with depression and anxiety among students
Impact of unemployment on the society
How to prevent the most common causes of depression among teenagers
Gender disparity and incarceration: an overview
Effect of feminism throughout the ages
How does racism affect society?
The importance of freedom of speech
Social structure for disabled people

Interesting Social Work Research Paper Topics

While the following social work research topics list will help you find a good topic, communicating with experts in this field is also helpful. Consider choosing a topic that will make an impact on society and provide value to your audience.

How does parental drug use impact children?
Changing career to social work: what does it take?
The development of social work throughout the history
Women and alcohol
What are the benefits of free education?
Why should the educational system be accessible to everyone?
Abortion: history and modern thoughts
Is feminism a plot of modern society?
Effective ways to decrease criminal activities
The influence of war and peace on children’s minds

Controversial Social Work Research Paper Topics

It is important to note that the following research paper topics may be controversial and complex. Approaching controversial research topics with sensitivity and conducting thorough research before drawing any conclusions can help you write a good research paper.

Does the use of cognitive-behavioral therapy enhance the lives of jailed people’s lives?
What do people think about war in our peaceful times?
Racial profiling for criminal cases: is it really effective?
Impact of abortion on women
The importance of receiving family support for LGBT teenagers
Effects of community on the mental health of minorities
Depression: Major symptoms and causes
How the criminal justice system benefits from social workers
Preventing suicide in schools: understanding reasons and finding solutions
Does poverty affect your mental health?

Social Work Thesis Topics

A social work thesis is a research paper that focuses on a specific topic related to social work practice. A good thesis can demonstrate your ability to conduct independent research and apply theoretical concepts to address various social work issues and causes.

Explore this list to find a suitable topic for your social work thesis:

Conversion therapy for LGBTQ+ individuals: definition and effects
Use of medication in treating mental health disorders
How does social media affect mental health?
Immigration policies: Impact on families and children
Race and racism affecting mental health
Restorative justice programs in the criminal justice system
Police brutality on communities of color
The impact of climate change on vulnerable populations
Strategies social workers can use to address income inequality
Healing from domestic violence: Tips and advice

Critical Social Work Research Paper

If you want to focus on ongoing critical issues in this field then here are a few interesting topics for you:

Effectiveness of therapy and why it works for some.
Mindfulness and its importance in the process of recovery
The effectiveness of wellness therapy
Is mental health neglected in low-income and poor households
Social integration of individuals with Down syndrome
Everything about drug rehabilitation programs
The impact of psychological abuse in promoting low self-esteem
The current role of government in improving welfare conditions
How does stress response in children with autism work?
In-depth analysis of children raised in abusive homes

Disputable Social Work Research Topics

By writing on disputable social issues essay topics , you can explain the current state of society and an important way to raise awareness on a variety of issues. From racism to gender inequality, there are plenty of topics that can be explored in a research paper. Before you start writing, gain insight into why certain disputable problems exist and explore potential solutions.

Here is a list of disputable research topics for social work:

Why some people become shopaholics
Best ways to improve the participation of adolescents in the development of the local community
What’s the effect of welfare policies in fighting poverty
A report on AIDS caregivers and their experience
Best practices to improve the health system in rural areas
What is fuelling racism on a global level?
Couple therapy in building relationships: Pros and cons
Addressing workplace violence: Steps for leaders and managers
An overview of social problems faced by autistic children
How income and behavioral health are connected

Social Work Topics for Presentation

You can make your presentation more engaging by adding relevant graphs, charts, or images. Start by selecting and researching a topic that is relevant to your audience. The following list of social work topics to research can help you create an engaging presentation:

Child welfare and protection
Immigration and refugees
Community development and empowerment
Mental health services and support
LGBTQ+ rights and advocacy
Aging and elder care
Homelessness and housing insecurity
Domestic violence and abuse
Disability rights and services
Social work integration in healthcare services

Social Work Research Paper for Literature Review

A literature review should be written in a way that covers the most recent and relevant research in the field. Here are some common social work topics suitable for a literature review:

Understanding the significance of poverty on child development
Evidence-based practices in substance abuse treatment
Nutrition assistance programs
Juvenile justice system
Research on the gender pay gap
Why do some people experience homelessness?
The importance of early childhood education
Benefits of career counseling
Educational achievements of childcare in America
Welfare programs for immigrants

One of the most pressing challenges of social work researchers is finding reliable and relevant sources for their work. Online essay writers can be a great asset in this regard, as they can provide reliable information backed up by research and data. Furthermore, they can also provide creative and thoughtful insights into the topic at hand, making them invaluable resources for social work research.

While selecting a good social work topic can be challenging, the above-mentioned lists can help you write a good research paper. Once you select a topic, make sure it is relevant, interesting, and appropriate for your task or purpose.

From researching existing materials on your chosen topic to considering the scope of the project in terms of current trends in social work, there are a few things that will make your social work research paper stand out from others. Now that you have a comprehensive list of topics, you’re ready to find the best one for your needs and write a convincing and data-driven research paper for your audience.

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255+ Research Topics Related To Community Problems.

Global citizens experience various issues cutting across health, education, environment and social matters. Such studies will help to bring changes to such issues, as well as to help the policy makers and the ordinary citizens of the specific communities. The list below shows a wide variety of research topics focused on different community issues: You might go to any one you like depending on its interest and your area of specialization.

Research Topics Related To Community Problems in Health and Wellness

Table of Contents

Availability of professional assistance within geographically disadvantaged areas
Overview of the effects of cheap health facilities on the wellbeing of the community
Relationship between air pollution in urban areas and incidence of respiratory diseases
Protecting children from obesity: the difference between urban and rural settings
The effectiveness of substance abuse rehab for youths
Inequalities in people’s health between groups in low-income areas and groups of affluent people
The part of immunization in managing epidemics
The effects of food deserts on community nutrition
Speaking of mental health stigma in minorities
Telemedicine in rural areas: Actual efficiency
Preventing Teen Pregnancy In High-Risk Communities
Community-level interventions in the management of chronic diseases
The effect of homelessness on health outcomes and health care access
Effectiveness of HL interventions on disease prevention
Reproduction health facility utilization by young people in conservative settings
Public Health Education in Prevention and Management of Emerging Pandemics
Community resources in relation to opioid dependence
Effectiveness of the mobile clinics in outreach health care.
Appropriate programmes for children immunization in hard to reach places.
Impact of community environmental toxins on the health of a community
In order to develop an effective antidote to the instances of youth smoking in the low-income category, the following plans can be adopted.
Integrated best practices for managing epidemic and pandemic diseases
Social media impact on adolescents’ psychological well-being
Dietary modification in low-income districts
Meeting Social Rights of the Elderly through Providing Elderly Home Care Services in Rural Areas
Climate change and global warming’s effects on the health of people in coasting areas
The health consonants of children in one-parent families
Measures on How to Prevent Domestic Violence within Communities
Dental care for needy and poor families
Healthcare delivery: Fate of the needy in the hands of NGOs
Local outreach mental health services for veterans
Impacts of Water Pollution on community health
Promotion of sexually transmitted infection-related education
Responses to the community gardening and food security questionnaire
Understanding the part that schools play in enhancing student’s mental wellbeing
Evaluating the fitness of community-based fitness programs
Challenges to: Affordable health care for immigrants
The position of health policy in the elimination of health inequities
On the basis of the family structure, therefore, the health of adolescents can be influenced.
Nutrition in food-inadequate areas
Community pharmacy interventions and their potential place in health promotion
Some problems associated with prenatal care in rural areas
How successful are anti-smoking campaigns?
Primary care services based on the gender of beneficiaries: a focus on areas with little access
Effects of stress on the cardiovascular system among adults
Constraints of PA in urban or metropolitan settings
HIV/AIDS and other issues in marginalized groups
Mental health funding by local governments
Methods of minimizing infant mortality rates in low-income groups
Dental health inequalities suffered by denizens of rural areas

Research Topics Related To Community Problems in Education

Possible measures to minimize the number of students leaving low-income schools
The effects of early childhood education on academic performance
The effects of school-going children funding on their performance
The use of technology in the efforts towards closing the education divide
Interference in intervention programs in schools against bullying
Nala to support students with disabilities in Public schools
The availability of after school care in areas that are considered to be of low income.
Sex differences in STEM education
Effects of standard achievement testing on learners
Solutions for enhancing literacy level among adults
Opportunity to enforce vocationally for residents in low-income areas
Impact of computer-assisted instruction on disadvantaged students
Parată initiate parent involvement in academic achievement
The fifth major theme is teacher shortages in rural schools
Evaluating programs for at-risk youths: A look at other nontraditional schooling platforms
School closure effects as a concern of low-income families
Resource in teaching non-english speaking learners
Tackling racial inequities in postsecondary education enrollment
Analyze the importance of the participants of the academic achievement in the functions of the programs of the mentorship.
Effects of community libraries on literacy levels
Introducing financial literacy as a subject to the high school classroom
The adoption of the life skills program into the academic curriculum.
The following topic of discussion is the effects of school meal programs on students’ health.
Ways of Enhancing the use of the Internet in poverty-stricken communities
Homelessness of students: needs and requirements
In this paper, arts education and its impact on the academic performance of learners shall be discussed.
Exploring factor influence, the impact of trauma on academic achievement
School counselors as mental health care providers
Our proposals for enhancing the delivery of STEM courses in rural schools
Tackling the problem of college counseling in low-income schools
Impact of class size on learning object
Reducing learning losses caused by the COVID-19 outbreak in schools
Improve parental-teacher communication and its effects on the performance of the learners
The contribution of sports programs to youth in the community
Methods of dealing with language in immigrant students’ education
Impact of School Health Centers on Performance
The part played by scholarships in decreasing college dropout rates
Effects of social media to students’ learning
Investigating the effectiveness of special education interventions
Education for charities, special needs children, and those students in impoverished areas who have not paid for the privilege.
ASSESSMENT OF EFFECTIVE READING INTERVENTION PROGRAMS
Eradicating Gender Discrimination at School
The available private resources are different from the public school resources, which may affect learning.
Increasing access to quality science education for needy schools
Education gaps and the role played by community college
Impacts that Cultural representation has on the school curriculum
Education reform in order to reduce youth unemployment
Assessing the Performance of Charter Schools for Low-Income Students
Community organization’s contribution towards school success.
Challenges to retention rates in college: recommendations

Research Topics Related To Community Problems in the Environment

Organic actions they undertake to help cut the use of plastics
Managing food waste across urban neighborhoods
Effects of urban spread on the release of energy on local ecosystems
Extending on the above step it means launching recycling programs in areas with low vitality levels among residents.
This is particularly important given that access to green spaces in urban communities is a limitation to pleasant experiences.
Adverse effects of agriculture in a local community on food security
Community Development and Technology within Communities
Where and how to apply measures to minimize air pollution in cities
Assessing human coping strategies for water deficiency
Community gardens and their function in urban sustainable horticulture
Minimising the emission of carbon in local industries
Impact of public transportation on the emissions of greenhouse gases
Impact of waste management methods on the health of the people
Encouraging energy conservation in the buildings within the local community
Recommendations for water management for sustainable development
Habitat loss in the urban region
Environmental education for school-going children
Analyzing community-supported agriculture: its effects
Factors and implications of deforestation for local societies
Advocacy of the environment by Non-Governmental Organizations
Solutions for enhancing water quality in cities
A study of the efficiency of green products
Tree plantations as measures to combating heat island effects
This paper focuses on how energy consumption is affected by green rooftops.
Public reactions to high rates of severe rise
Soil erosion among farming societies
Measures to stop illegitimate disposal
The purpose of this essay is to examine the literature on the use of City clean-up campaigns.
Effects of industrial pollution on the people
Considering the environmental justice in such areas
Local Policies in Greenhouse Gases Reduction
Exploring the role and the effects of renewable power energy
Reducing noises that affect the central business and residential districts
‘How Well the Local Recycling Laws Work’
The contribution of citizen science to environmental conservation
African innate pesticide usage in community farming
Most of the local measures aim at the protection of endangered species.
Effects of urbanization on systems of water supply
Minimizing the use of single-use plastics in societies
The questions for this research are: Why and how are conservation programs successful?
Mobilizing Biodiversity at the local level
Solving the energy demand of low-income households
Coastal erosion: An economic analysis
Dimensions of poverty and the potential of green energy
Unsustainable fishing and the problems it creates
Evaluating the reaction of the community to the evaporation conditions
Environmental justice in the context of health difference
Conservation of the environment through the support of efficient tourism.
Speaking of the effect of mining on the local environment
Environmental policies in preserving the biological review

Social Justice and Human Rights

Effacing racism in policing
Impacts of gentrification on housing in the local markets
The measures covered in the literature study regarding decreasing income segregation in urban neighborhoods
Legal services for the residents of low-income districts
The effect of minimum wage policies on poverty
Community activism within social change
The housing of homeless veterans
Measuring the effectiveness of reentry programs of Jail & Prison Releasees
Effects of redlining on today’s urban neighborhoods
Impact of changed policy on recidivism
Tackling the issue of women’s and men’s wage disparity
Nonprofits and how they help the vulnerable population
Availability of affordable housing to single-parent families
Scrutinizing the efficiency of anti-discrimination provision
That indicates that tackling the challenges that undocumented immigrants in cities face takes additional skills in reviewing the basic principles of immigration legislation revealed through the programs’ schedule.
This paper reviews the effectiveness of welfare policies in poverty reduction.
Specifically, the paper talks about the rights of LGBTQ+ youths in school settings.
Impact of voter suppression on minority groups
Reaction of the communities to hate crimes
Negotiating obstacles to employment by ex-offenders
Restorative Justice in School Context
Assessing equity of racial distributions to healthcare services
Measures to minimize the problem of human trafficking in settlements
Tackling educational disparities facing communities of less privileged or color
The public defenders’ function of prevent the bias towards the less fortunate in society
The Effects of Cultural Center on Conservation of Culture
Issues related to refugees’ integration in small towns
Elderly abuse: the situation in residential care facilities
The following inquiries are the focus of this paper: How does wage difference affect the standard of living?
Opportunity to acquire the technological and digital products of the excluded groups
Impact of social networking sites on promoting justice in society
Overview of prisons and rights of the prisoners
The place of community organizations in the provision of immigrant assistance
CV in Disability Access to Public Places
Responses to gentrification pressures among communities
Means of preventing gender-based violence in cultural settings
Proposals associated with affirmative action and reaction to college admission
Human Rights Abuse in Detention Facilities
Union importance in enhancing worker rights
The advocacy for compensation of expunged criminal records
Reviewing findings pertinent to the effectiveness of refugee education initiatives
Assessing the interventions for poverty reduction in the country’s urban regions
Challenges to voting among non-English speaking voting public
Ending racism in school disciplineolumbia University School of the Arts MFA creative writing programs
Impact of an anti-poverty program in different families classified under low-income group
Sex and Race Discrimination in Pay Parity
Improving the quality of life for the aging adult population in an urban environment
Effects of social housing policies and practices on displacement
The International NGOs in the Promotion and Protection of Human Rights
Reviewing mental health care needs for the LBGTQ+ community

Research Topics Related To Community Problems in Crime, Safety, and Public Policy

Effectiveness of community-oriented policing on either reduction or otherwise of crime.
Youth gang violence in an urban environment
Examining success in the implementation of programs that champion neighborhood watch
The use of technology in crime prevention
Measures which can be taken to prevent violence in schools
Consequences of raising awareness about domestic violence
Impact of the night buADELANCY AND CURFEW ON JUVENILE CRIME RATES
The following paper takes a closer look at the application of body cameras among the police force.
Combating the illicit business of drugs in the border regions
Some of the problems involved with policing in populous regions
In this thesis, the subject to be discussed is the effects of gun control policies on community protection.
School resource Officers and Violence Prevention
How Prison education affects the Rate of recidivism
Preventing religious hate crimes against religious minorities
THE REACTION OF COMMUNITY Members TOWARDS VANDALISM AND PROPERTIES CRIMES
The effectiveness of the policies of probation and parole
Measures to Minimize Vehicle Theft Incidents in Cities
Part of Restorative Justice in Criminal Circumstances
Effects of immigration laws on community offense levels
Exploring the effectiveness of youth diverting schemes
Restorative justice and criminology: Where does rehabilitation end, and punishment begin?
Policing and police excesses: brutality and accountability
Impact of Poverty on crime trends in the Inner city-enting
Measures for combating organized crime in large cities
Community-level analysis of prevention measures regarding cybercrime
Effectiveness of ordinances aimed at nuisance crimes
Public surveillance systems and their implication on the prevention of crime
Ideally, fighting human trafficking needs to start in urban areas.
Strategies involving the community members in the fight against hate crime.
The effects of decriminalization of drugs on local crime
Examining the effectiveness of theory to practice for police officers.
Prevention measures in cases related to the use of alcohol
This paper seeks to analyze the organizations that have adopted predictive policing software.
Effects of political corruption on the people’s collective assets
Violence, namely against women: Discussion in local communities
The part that can played by community centers in the avoidance of juvenile delinquency
Knowing how Blacks and Whites relate to one other in arrest statistics
This paper explores the following strategies for dealing with the issue of street harassment.
Measures of community safety for natural disasters.
Effectiveness of social services in decreasing crime rate
The approach to managing bullying and cyberbullying in the school setting
Impact of media on the perception of society on crime
Exploring existing approaches to gang intervention and prevention
Assessing options in lieu of imprisonment for violent-free criminals
Housing insecurity and its consequence as a determinant of community crime
Mental health care in incarcerated people
Analyzing the impact of the policies in bail reform
Responsibilities of the social workers in community protection
The effects of police reducing campaigns
Relationship between socioeconomic status and youth delinquency

Research Topics Related To Community Problems in Technology and Community Development

How do people gain internet access and help reduce the digital divide gap?
An analysis of the effects of applying 5G technology to the development of business and commerce in rural areas
Mitigating cyber risks affecting small communities
Analyzing the impact of new technology firms on regional development
Impacts of automation on employment for individuals in rural areas
Some of the detailed basic technological endeavors for the enhancement of the community in urban areas are as follows:
The use of social media in enhancing community and extension service activities
AI’s effect on efficiency within local government
The next study must consider the ethical issues of facial recognition within open areas.
How the programs on the use of digital technologies assist low-income families
Measures to avoid dependency in adolescents on digital devices
Further, there must be a need to investigate how this blockchain technology could enhance community fundraising.

In exploring these 255+ research topics related to community problems , it’s clear that there are countless opportunities to make a meaningful impact. All these topics focus on current problems of societies in various countries, including health care inequality, pollution, social justice and education. By choosing a topic of your choice that addresses issues that your community requires solutions to achieve, you will be able to come up with solutions that influence policy change and improvements. Grey and opaque as the journey may seem to you at the beginning, remember that every single step you take will help build healthier people and communities.

What are the community problems?

Community problems are difficulties or matters that are detrimental to the inhabitants’ security and standard of living in a certain community. These problems may emanate from different social, economic, environmental and health-related factors, and everyone is vulnerable to them.

What are community challenges?

As with any general concept, a community challenge refers to a general hindrance to the progress and cohesiveness of a community. Such pressures usually stem from social, economic, environmental and political factors and may affect people and organizations in the community in a number of ways.

How to solve community problems?

Community Analysis – Collect facts that manifest social problems and their factors.

Encourage Membership – Get the locals to participate in admitting problems and ranking them.

Encourage Partnership – Mobilise Government, non-profit organizations, and others.

Develop Action Plans – Identify well-defined, tangible and measurable plans of action.

Initiation – Inform the populace about problems and their resolutions.

Funding – Look for grants, giving, or local partnerships to support your programs.

Sustain Solutions – Put into practice action plans and observe outcomes at least on a recurring basis.

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Developmental and Community-Based Social Work

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First Online: 12 April 2022
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research topics in social work and community development

Janestic Mwende Twikirize 5

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Developmental social work is part and parcel of mainstream social work that emphasises use of investment strategies to meet the material needs of individuals and groups and the adoption of practice interventions that lead to progressive, sustainable social change. It is predominantly macro-level practice with most interventions targeted at community level, as well as engaging with societal systems, structures and institutions to address the root causes of oppression, exploitation and vulnerability. It is inspired by the broader field of social development and closely interlinked with community development and developmental social welfare. Developmental social work reclaims social work’s primary mission of liberating people from poverty, vulnerability and oppression. It is also squarely fitting into social work’s current orientation towards promoting social change and social cohesion, human rights, social justice and equality. Although predominantly researched, theorised and practiced in the global South, particularly in Africa, developmental social work is deemed relevant in contexts of the global North.

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Community Practice and Social Development Themes and Implications

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Janestic Mwende Twikirize

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School of Human Services and Social Work, Griffith University, Meadowbrook, QLD, Australia

Dorothee Hölscher

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Richard Hugman

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Twikirize, J.M. (2022). Developmental and Community-Based Social Work. In: Hölscher, D., Hugman, R., McAuliffe, D. (eds) Social Work Theory and Ethics. Social Work. Springer, Singapore. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-16-3059-0_13-1

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DOI : https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-16-3059-0_13-1

Received : 03 January 2022

Accepted : 15 January 2022

Published : 12 April 2022

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Domestic Violence and Abuse in Intimate Relationship from Public Health Perspective

Zlatka rakovec-felser.

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Department for Health Psychology Faculty of Medicine, University of Maribor, Slomškov trg 15, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia. +386.223.55280 - +386.223.55211. [email protected]

Conflict of interests: the authors declare no potential conflict of interests.

Received 2014 Jul 10; Revised 2014 Sep 9; Accepted 2014 Sep 14; Collection date 2014 Nov 6.

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution Non-Commercial License ( http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/3.0/ ) which permits unrestricted non-commercial use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

In this article we pay attention to the violence which, due to the fear of social stigma, could be hidden from the public eye for a long time but could have serious health consequences for the individual, family, and society – physical and psychological forms of domestic violence and abuse in male-female intimate relationship. Besides its nature and extent data in general population, we review also the surveys data about its theoretical basis, its risk factors and possible effects on mental and physical health, not only on in conflicts involved partners, but also on family as a whole, and especially on the children that growing up in such a problematic domestic circumstances.

Key words: domestic violence, perpetrator, victim, gender differences

Introduction

The APA Task Force on Violence and the Family defined domestic violence as pattern of abusive behaviors including a wide range of physical, sexual, and psychological maltreatment used by one person in an intimate relationship against another to gain power unfairly or maintain that person’s misuse of power, control, and authority. It can either results or has a high likelihood of resulting in injury, psychological harm, mal-development, or even a death. Walker points that when one form of family violence appears, we can expect all others, including various aggressive acts outside the family, in community. 1

Huss defined the nature of domestic violence as any action of violence perpetrated within the context of significant interpersonal relationship. Domestic violence could include violence between a husband and a wife, a girlfriend and boyfriend, or gay or lesbian partners. It could be violence between parents and children, adult children and elderly parents, or we could meet it between siblings. 2 Krug et al. have addressed similar topics. They said that intimate partnership abuse can be found in all relationships, both same-sex and heterosexual. 3 But although domestic violence can take place in any intimate relationship, the great majority of it is perpetrated by men against women and makes because of its frequency and severity a much larger problem in public health terms. 4

Walker notes that term violence and abuse was found to be used differently. The original terms in USA studies to identify domestic violence include wife abuse, woman abuse, battered women, and partner abuse. Author also exposes that when the physical, sexual and psychological abuse that usually, although not exclusively, is directed against women partners, it is talk in term of domestic violence and abuse, while in the same case when it is directed against children the term child abuse is used much more than domestic violence. 1

The extent and nature of domestic violence and abuse

As domestic violence cases increasingly enter the court system, and consequences of aggressive accidents threaten the functioning, well-being and health of victims, in family or outside systems, it is important to describe extent and nature of this phenomenon. 2 Although both men and women initiate violence, the violence enforced by women is less frequently and has less severe consequences compared to male offenders. 5 Straus and Gelles, using the National Family Violence Survey found that the injury rate for women was 6 times higher than for men. 6 Worldwide, 10-50 per cent of women report having been hit or physically assaulted by an intimate partner at some time in their lives. 4 Some estimates suggest that as many as one-third of all women are victims of domestic violence during their lifetime. 2 Four million women each year are assaulted by a domestic partner. 7 For those aged from 18 to 59 around one in four women and one in eight men reported experiencing partner abuse in year 2008 to 2009. 8 Woman’s pregnancy is high-risk period for the initiation and escalation of intimate partnership violence, and is leading cause of maternal mortality in the UK, USA and Australia. 4 Same risk period for the outbreak of violence against women in intimate partner relationship was also found in research of Jasinski and Kantor. Another period that is especially dangerous for women is at the ending of relationship because their partners become threatened by a clear indication of a change or loss in the relationship. 2 It could occur in all social strata, but there is some evidence of population disparities, across socio-economic and ethnic groups, and particular a higher prevalence for learning-disabled people. Cooper et al . note that about 5.6 per cent of older couples reported physical violence in their relationship in the past year and that for vulnerable elders (dependent on a carer, disabled) rates were much higher, with nearly 25 per cent reporting significant abuse. 4

A common pattern of domestic abuse, especially this between intimate partners, is that the perpetrator alternates between violent, abusive and apologetic behavior with apparently heartfelt promises to change and that the abuser could very pleasant most of the time.

Walker (1970, 1984, 1999) developed, on the basis of social cycle theory and Seligman’s phenomenon of learned helplessness, the theory of cyclic abuse with a hypothesis that abusive relationships, once established, are characterized by a predictable repetitious pattern of abuse. She suggested that sustained periods of living in such a cycle may lead victim to learned helplessness. Abuse Cycle is known also as a Battered Women Syndrome which consists of these symptoms: re-experiencing the battering as if it were recurring even when it is not; attempts to avoid the psychological impact of battering by avoiding activities, people, and emotions; hyper arousal or hyper vigilance; disrupted interpersonal relationships; body image distortion or other somatic concerns; sexuality and intimacy issues. 1 , 9 But feelings of depression and woman passivity may be also a result of lack of support in environment. Gondolf and Fisher found that women in abusive situations shown increase more help-seeking behavior as acts of violence against them intensified. However, their attempts to find help and protection outside family could be frustrated because on her appeals arrive no responds. 10 In a 2002 study, Gondolf found that more than half of women had negative views of shelters and programs for battered women because of negative experiences with those programs. 11

Abuse is rarely constant but alternates between four stages: i) period of tension building (tension starts and steadily builds, abuser starts to get angry, communication breaks down, victim feels the need to concede to the abuser, tension becomes too much, victim feels uneasy); ii) acting out period (any type of abuse occurs); iii) the honeymoon period (abuser apologizes for abuse, some beg forgiveness or show sorrows, abuser may promise it will never happen again, blames victim for provoking the abuse or denies abuse occurred, minimizing); iv) the calm period (abuse stops, abuser acts like the abuse never happened, promises made during honeymoon stage may be met, abuser may give gifts to victim, victim believes or wants to believe that the abuse is over or that the abuser will change).

In fact, such a behavior pattern explains why for the most victims it is so difficult to break their exhausting relationship. Due to perpetrator’s acts of apologies and loving gestures between the episodes of abuse, they are ready to believe that partner’s violent and abusive practice will really never appear again. But on the other hand, it is also not so simple if a battered woman decides to stop her relationship. Research data pointed out that leaving the relation with the partner often does not stop the abuse. Many perpetrators continue to harass, stalk, and harm the victim long after she has left him, sometimes even resulting in someone’s death. In one U.S. study, 70 per cent of reported injuries from domestic violence ocuured after the separation of couple. 1

Theoretical perspectives of domestic violence and abuse

There are three broad theoretical approaches explaining the phenomenon of domestic violence: feminist, conflict, and social learning theories. Feminist theory argues that wife abuse is directly connected to the patriarchal organization of society, which is reflected in the pattern of behaviors and attitudes toward women. 12 , 13 In addition, masculinity is often characterized as being authoritative and controlling of women. A feminist approach emphasizes the significance of gender inequality and contends that it is a major factor in male-female violence. Violence and abuse are viewed as an expression of social power and become used as a way of men to control and dominate their female partners. Men could resort to aggressive forms of control over women particularly when they experience powerlessness. 14 Important social institutions have tolerated the use of physical violence by men against women in the past. The patriarchal arrangement of families, ideals of masculinity, and a cultural acceptance of the use of force to gain control over others, all create and also foster a social environment for wife abuse and other forms of family violence. 15 While feminist theory describes the patriarchal nature of family and society, conflict theoretical approach exposes family and society as a place involving a conflict between their members and their divergent interests. 16 When different interests produce conflicts, aggression and violence are the way that individuals may utilize to resolve the situation in their favor, particularly when other strategies fail. 17

This theoretical approach could be helpful especially in explaining the causes of violence between siblings. A conflict between siblings is often believed to be driven by jealous rivalry with siblings competing for parental attention and affection. The study of adults revealed that two thirds of them perceived their siblings as rivals during childhood, and perpetrators of sibling violence may be driven by feeling of powerlessness brought on by favoritism. 14

The feminist and conflict perspectives address social structural condition in society and family, whereas social learning theory provides an explanation for family interaction patterns that foster violence and abuse. It contends that behavior is learned in large part through observation, imitation, and reinforcement. Prior to engaging in an observed behavior, an individual generates ideas about probable rewards and punishments. Reactions from others are used to develop implicit rules that are applied to future in similar situation. As a result, learning often occurs through direct experience, with individuals learning guidelines for many behavior forms that are more complex than the specific action observed. 14 So, aggressive behavior is adopted as a response because direct and indirect experience suggests that the desired rewards, not negative sanctions, will be the anticipated outcome or reaction from others. Consequently, modeling and reinforcement are two of the most important processes in learning aggressive behavior. 18 , 19

Individuals with intimate and frequent contacts, and those with higher social power, are the most likely to be observed and imitated. Consequently, learning often occurs through interactions with significant others. Children are more likely to imitate when they strongly identify with person, when this person is familiar and demonstrates approval. 14 Bandura also found that when adult males performing aggressive acts were more likely to be modeled by children, and he found also that familiarity much more influenced boys than girls. 18 , 19 If a father uses aggressive behavior against his wife or child with successful results, children, particularly sons, are more likely to model this behavior with siblings. 20

The risk factors of domestic violence and abuse

The perpetrators.

In context of the domestic violence in intimate partner relationship between men and women the oldest and still widely adopted perspective is psychological based. It focus on personality disorders and early experiences that increase the risk of violent behaviour. 21 Moffitt et al. report that while men exhibit more aggression overall, gender is not a reliable predictor of interpersonal aggression, including psychological aggression. Their study found that whether male or female, aggressive people share a cluster of traits, including high rates of suspicion and jealousy, sudden and drastic mood swings, poor self-control, and higher than average rates of approval of violence and aggression. They also argue that antisocial men exhibit two distinct types of interpersonal aggression: against strangers, and against intimate female partners, while antisocial women are rarely aggressive against anyone other than intimate male partners. 22 Dutton and Bodnarchuk, Carney and Buttell, and Henning and Feder reported that male and female perpetrators of emotional and physical abuse exhibit high rates of personality disorders. 23-25 Studies have found incidence rates of personality disorders to be 80-90 per cent in both court-referred and self referred wife assaulters, compared to estimates in the general population, which tend from 15-20 per cent. 23 As the violence becomes more severe and chronic, the like hood of psychopathology in these men approaches 100 per cent reported Hart, Dutton, and Newlove, and Dutton and Hart. 26-28 But Gelles stated that only 10 per cent of violently incidents might be labeled as primary caused by mental ill persons, whereas 90 per cent are not amenable to merely psychopathological explanations. It should be noted that many personality dysfunctions, for example low impulse control, are not considered pathological but rather a personality disorder. 6

Dutton (1988) argued that three specific forms of personality disorders were prevalent among wife assaulters: antisocial, borderline and over-controlled. In series of studies he described associated psychological features of abusiveness that clustered around Oldham et al. measure of Borderline Personality Organization: shame-based rage, a tendency to project blame, attachment anxiety manifested as rage, and sustained rageful outbursts, primary in intimate relationships.

Profile of an abuser correlate with the Cluster B personality disorders: Anti-Social Personality (a pervasive pattern of disregard for and violation of the rights of others, lack of empathy), Borderline Personality (a pervasive pattern of instability in relationships, self-image, identity, behavior and affects often leading to self-harm and impulsivity), and Narcissistic Personality (a pervasive pattern of grandiosity need for admiration, and a lack of empathy).

These disorders display characteristics that involve grandiose delusions and a self inflated sense of importance which are critical behaviors for an abuser to have in order to maintain strict and severe control over their victim. The abuser also needs to have a very low affect and low sense of empathy so that they do not have remorse for the abuse and actions they are inflicting on their victim. All of these qualities are characteristics found on the Axis II disorders in the DSM-IV. 23

Abusers may aim to avoid household chores or exercise total control of family finances. They can be manipulative, often recruiting friends, law officers and court officials, even the victim’s family to their side, while shifting blame to the victim. They deny the violence and abuse or rationalize it and tend to use such types of defenses: total outright denial ( It never happened. You are just imagining it. You want to hurt me ), alloplastic defense ( It was your fault, your behavior provoked me into such reactions ), altruistic defense ( I did it for you, in your best interests! ), transformative defense ( What I did to you, it was common and accepted behavior ).

Perpetrators are usually concerned with their reputation and image in the community – among neighbors, colleagues, co-workers, bosses, friends, extended family, and therefore they use in the public the specific forms of denial: family honor stricture ( We don’t do dirty laundry publicly, the family’s honor and repute must be preserved, what will the neighbors say? ), and family function stricture ( If you snitch and inform the authorities, they will take me away, and the whole family will be disintegrate ). 29 , 30

The victims

The victims of violence and abuse in intimate relationship between man and woman can be found in all social and economic classes and can be wealthy, educated, and prominent as well as undereducated and financially destitute. They live in rural areas, urban cities, subsidized housing projects, and in gated communities. In general, domestic violence affected largely women, children of both sexes, but men are also raped and experience domestic violence. 4

The fact that the victim could be a male partner is confirmed by recent research. On the delusion that arises around this question inside our heads have recently exposed Dutton and White: The stereotype invoked when one mentions domestic violence is a bulling, domineering man who is hyper-reactive to jealousy and has a drinking problem . And to continue: The gender paradigm stereotype also holds that female violence is less serious, only what Johnson calls common couple violence. In fact, the data again say something else. It was simply that easier research was driven by paradigm that avoided asking the right question of men. When these questions are asked, the results are surprising .

An emergency clinic in Philadelphia found that 12,6 per cent of all male patients over thirteen week period were victims of domestic violence. 31 Same results also reported Hines and Douglas. 32 Authors Williams and Frieze agree that terms of battered women do not explain all of the patterns of violence that occur in couples. Data from their research shown that women can be equally violent or display even more frequent violent acts than men toward partners: 21.6 per cent victims were male, 28.7 per cent victims were women, bilateral violent and abusive were 49 per cent of couples. They considered that many study in the past were based only on women’s reports. 33 Brown and also Henning and Renauer found that men compared to female offenders were likely to be arrested. They are also treated more harshly by criminal justice system. Brown found that in case where only the male partner was injured, the female was charged in 60.2 per cent of the cases, however, when the female partner was injured, the male was charged 91.1 per cent of the time. In no-injury cases, the male was charged 52.5 per cent of the time, the female 13.2 per cent of the time. Brown also found that women were more likely to have used weapons and caused injuries and also to have received more serious charges (more than twice as likely to be charged with aggravated assault or assault with a weapon), and that those who were prosecuted tended to have inflicted higher levels of injury against their victim than prosecuted men and, as with arrested women, were more likely than men to have used weapons. In severe injury cases, 71.4 per cent of men and 22.2 per cent of women were found guilty. The low percentage of women found guilty was due to witness problems (few men being willing to testify). 34 Fontes believes that men have more difficulty in expressing their hardship if they are victims of violence. He identifies several reasons and one of them is dilemma because they are socialized to be strong, physically and emotionally, to be provider, especially women and children. So they are early trained to suppress their fear and pain and have later difficulty in expressing emotions because they are aware that patriarchal society and men in general do not want view males as victims (to be vulnerable, to be weak, to be unmanly because it means be a wimp ). Other reasons he found in feminism and gender politics. Even if a man decides that he wants support, he often doesn’t have such a social networks as a woman and cannot so easily complain, what is happening to him. In practice, he can also be afraid that if he was to report his wife to the police, the police would not take his allegation seriously. 35

The family violence theories

The family is a major socializing institution and a likely context for relatively high level of aggression. Many researchers have found a link between childhood experiences of aggression behind the domestic walls and violence and abuse in adulthood. Phenomenon was called as intergenerational transmission of violence. Important part of such process is learning through modeling. Social learn theory suggests that a child learns not only how to commit violence but also learns positive attitudes about violence when he/she sees it rewarded. So he/she learns destructive conflict resolution as also patterns of interpersonal communication. 36 However, the Theory of Intergenerational Transmission of Violence provokes some criticism and opens several questions. One is in the potential different effects of experiencing aggression during childhood. Another element of complexity lies in whether one who grows up in a violent home is at risk for becoming a perpetrator or a victim of spouse abuse as some studies have provided empirical support for the notion that growing up in an aggressive family increases the probability of being a victim of spouse abuse, whereas other studies have provided support for the notion that growing up in an aggressive home increases the probability of being a perpetrator of spouse abuse. A third element of complexity relates to gender. Recently, theorists have suggested that the intergenerational transmission of violence may operate differently for men and women. The need for a gender sensitive application of the intergenerational transmission of violence theory has been supported empirically in a number of studies. Contradictory findings have emerged from gender-sensitive research examining the intergenerational transmission of marital aggression. 37

The impact of domestic violence and abuse

Certain, the violence, and abuse have not positive effects in both cases, if the victim of violence and abuse in intimate relationship is a woman or a man. According to the surveys data that women victims predominate, it is expected that much more researches verify the relationships between women’s health and their violently experiences compared to those which study health consequences by the male victims.

Intimate partnership violence and battering as its frequently part, has specific, long-term negative health consequences for victims, even after the abuse has ended. Battering is meant as repeated physical or sexual assault within a context of coercive control and emotional abuse as it’s frequently part. Measures of the coercive control include verbal threats, financial control, emotional abuse, sexual abuse, and threats against the children, belongings, or pets. Negative effects can manifest as poor health status, poor quality of life, and high use of health services. 38 Orem, author of Self Care Deficit Theory, whose central concept of self care agency is defined as individuals’ ability to engage in self care, considers the battering as a threat to one of the identified universal self care requisites, prevention of hazards to life, functioning, and well-being. The model importantly includes as outcomes a women’s physical as well psychological health. 39

Battering is a significant direct and indirect risk factor for various physical health problems frequently seen in health-care settings and is one of the most common causes of injury in women. 40 Plichta states that intimate partner violence and abuse is associated with increased mortality, injury and disability, worse health status, chronic pain, substance abuse, reproductive disorders, and proper pregnancy outcomes. It is also associated with overuse of health services. 41 Campbell indicates the fact that 40-60 per cent of murders of women in the USA perpetrated by their intimate partners. Battering in intimate partnership violence is also one of the most common causes of injury in women. An injuries, fear, and stress can result in chronic health problems as chronic pain by headache, back pain. 42 It was also found that battered women have significantly more than average self-reported gastrointestinal symptoms and diagnosed functional gastrointestinal disorders. This was found also as past, in childhood experiencing sexual abuse, or both. 43 Gynecological problems, among them chronic pelvic pain and urinary-tract infections, are the most consistent, long lasting, and largest physical health difference between battered and non-battered women. The combination of physical and sexual abuse that characterizes at least 40-45 per cent group of battered women puts these women at an even higher risk for health problems than women only physical assaulted. 40 It was also found that experiencing psychological intimate partner violence is associated with significant increase in risk of development such conditions: disabilities preventing work, chronic neck or back pain, arthritis, migraines or other frequent headaches, stammer or stutter, problem seeing with glasses, chronic pelvic pain, transmitted infections, stomach ulcers, spastic colon, indigestion, constipation, and diarrhea. Psychological intimate partner violence was defined as woman’s constantly feeling of susceptibility to danger, loss of power and control, and entrapment. Physical intimate partner violence was found to be correlated to hearing loss, angina, with cardiovascular problems, gastric reflux, and bladder or kidney infections. 44

Others’ evidence suggests that women who are exposed to violence by their partners show also psychological consequences: higher level of depression, anxiety and phobias than non-abused women. It was found also higher level of emotional distress, thoughts, or attempts of suicide among women who had ever experienced physical or sexual violence than those who had not. In addition, intimate partnership violence has also been linked with: alcohol and drug abuse, eating and sleep disorders, physical inactivity, a poor self-esteem, a post-traumatic stress disorder, smoking, self-harm, unsafe sexual behavior, the increased exposure to injuries. 41 Golding found that in 11 studies examining the prevalence of posttraumatic stress disorders among victims of domestic violence 63.8 per cent women suffered from it. His meta analysis also found that 18.5 per cent battered women experienced alcohol abuse and 8.9 per cent of them suffered from drug abuse. 45 Stark and Flitcraft estimated that battered women were at five times greater risk for a suicide attempt than women who were not in abusive relationship. 46 Furthermore, to the both physical and psychological abuse is related also lowered self-esteem as found many researchers, among them Aguilar and Nightingale. 47 O’Leary concluded that psychological abuse has more severe long term psychological effects than physical abuse and that the psychological abuse normally occurs prior to the physical abuse. At this point it should be noted that different authors mention slightly different major forms of psychological abusive behavior. Sacket and Saunders submit four major forms including criticizing behavior, ridiculing personal traits, jealous control behavioral pattern, and ignoring while Murphy and Cascardi proposed four factor model which include hostile withdrawal, domination/intimidation, denigration, and restrictive engulfment. 48 , 49 Even victims believe that the psychological abuse is more damaging to them found Follinstad, Rutledge, Berg, and Hause. 50

But, domestic and intimate violence and abuse are not traumatic only for adults in a family. Osofsky notes that several studies have found that 60-75 per cent families in which a woman is battered, children are also battered. She presents also his research data and states that in homes where domestic violence occur children are physically abused and neglected at the rate 15 times higher than is national average. She mentions some authors who identify adverse effects on children’s physical, cognitive, emotional, and social development. Existing researches show association between child exposure to violence and his/her emotional and behavioral disorders, even for this in the earliest phase of development. Such children are excessive irritable, show immature behavior patterns, sleep disturbances, emotional distress, fears of being alone and regression in toiling and language. Exposure to violence in family interferes with child’s normal development of trust and later exploratory behavior, which lead to autonomy. 51

Both experiencing and witnessing domestic violence produced in children symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorders and reduces the sense of security. Campbell and Lewandowski cite the research results of Slusi, who has been found that violence becomes traumatic when victim does not have ability to consent or dissent and are passive observer with feeling of helplessness and hopelessness. They also highlight the research of Mc Closky et al ., who have found that many children of battered women aged 6 to 12 had observed their mother being choked, threaded with weapon, or threaded with death in other way and noted that those children were living under the shadow of lethal threat. They note Terr’s conclusions that traumatized children response to violence and abuse with: strongly visualized or otherwise repeatedly perceived memories; repetitive play or behavior enactments of trauma; trauma specific fears as well as fears of mundane things (the dark or certain animals); changed attitudes about people, life, and future.

Later controlled studies indicated cognitive and emotional responses such as higher level of internalizing (anxiety, social withdrawal, depression), fewer interests and social activities, preoccupation with physical aggression, withdrawal and suicidal ideation; behavioral disorders (aggressiveness, hyperactivity, conduct problems), reduced social competence, school problems, truancy, bulling, excessive screaming, clinging behaviors, speech disorders; physical symptoms (headache, bed wetting, disturbed sleeping, vomiting, failure to thrive, diarrhea). 38

After a brief overview of the wide range of research data about the theoretical basis of the violence and abuse in intimate relationships, its extent, forms of occurrence, causes, and consequences, the series of questions appears. What is in a relationship between the sexes change? Especially, as we know, that violence in relationship between men and women has always existed, and has been well evidenced by many literary works in the past from the ancient Greek tragedies forward? Have the traditional gender roles significantly altered and imbalance of power and control in relationship produces new sources of tension between men and women? Or is a just now possible to express experience, which has been previously strictly retained behind domestic walls? Is its extent and severity actually in increase, and it raised in modern society from a complex of factor interactions?

Domestic violence which consequences can affect quality of life not only of both participants, but also their children, and the elderly parents, if they living with them, enter today not only in schools, police, health and social care services, but also in criminal justice system. Due to consequently high costs and unfavorable economic effects they have been declared as a political problem which demands appropriate solutions. But, despite that the intimate partnership violence and abuse become today a major public health problem and one of the most widespread violators of the human rights, some found that this problem is still under-acknowledged in all European countries, as it is throughout the world.

The fact is that the research data of violence and abuse between men and women sometimes differ, often because still various basic approaches and the way the data has been obtained. But on the other side just this could contribute to the more complex understanding phenomenon perception, too. More problematic is, according to my observations, the integration this knowledge into everyday practice, particularly to those who are responsible and are first instance to detect problems in the family, assess the level of a risk, form a plan of protection and support, and implement it in the appropriate measures.

Let us highlight two problems: in the public services mostly overlooked psychological violence, and the sex of the victim, which should be to the common belief particular female. First, the psychological violence is undoubtedly a complex, multifactorial construct (also named psychological abuse, psychological maltreatment, verbal abuse, mental abuse, emotional abuse, or maltreatment) and it must be, as O’Leary points, estimated as variable deserving critical attention . The fact is that its conceptualization, classification, and methodological issues is complex and we should take in to account not only the recipient of abusive behaviors and his/her perspective, but also the other side, perspective of initiator, moreover also observers’ views, outcome of the actions, analysis of contextual variables, as well as analysis of the recipient’s and initiator’s views – not only in science, but also in treatment the persons presenting themselves as the victims of violence. Because of the various abusive strategies of perpetrator and their specific effects on victim’s quality of life, physical and mental health, and last but not least on his/her self-esteem, the victim usually difficult promptly recognize partner’s abusive behavior as such, and therefore are also not able to express it soon. In such a situation can be of great help right a sensible, well-educated professional person.

Second problem is public widespread belief that draws attention and calls for a rethinking about stereotypes that partner violence is an almost uniquely male and that when men assault their partner, it is primary to dominate women, whereas violence, perpetrated by women is always an act of self-defense or an act of desperation in response to male dominance and cruelty. It is suggested that such limitations in mind known also as gender paradigm, should be replaced. Fontes points out that only 1-2% of men who are assaulted by their female partners are likely to report the abuse to the police or outside agency, but it does not mean that men would not be in distress, and suffered from violence. This could confirm also by my own experiences of an expert witness. Perpetrators of domestic violence at the police and in court in fact are predominantly men and those who have decided to first break the wall of silence are usually women and not other side. Men extremely rare seek for help and ask protection from female violence, but if they do it, they soon leave the treatment, dissatisfied that there have not been well understood. They are confronted with social services and their professionals usually after their female partners have been lodged there a complaint against them. On this basis someone even be able to conclude that women more easily adopted a position of powerlessness, are able to ask for help, usually better articulate their crisis, and are also more impressive in their role as victims than other side. Some concrete examples speak for the fact that the one-side reports could be accepted, particularly because belief that in the role of victim could appear only a woman. Such situation can get serious proportions for man’s quality of live when his former wife, supported by own network of advisors and encouraged also by institutional support, decides to accuse him of sexual child abuse. In case of ex-wives false profess for a man begins a long battle as this at windmills. Still in the first phase, at hearings at police and social care services, he can be considered as offender and he could collected and submitted papers to passed with attributed guilt, but nobody reads them exactly, so as he could find credible witnesses, but no one really listen to them. But what is most worrying, an acceptance of one-side reports could have serious consequences not only to the man’s quality of life, even more serious consequences usually suffers a child, currently but also for his/her further personal development as future quality of life.

Conclusions

The occurrence of domestic violent behavior and its multiple consequences for the individual, family, and community should be seen from the health public approach and need for a proactive prevention strategies on first level of actions. As long as violent behavior patterns within family may be accepted as a private matter of its members, and its causes and effects on them, and more broadly on public health, will be overlooked, we could not expected any changes in this case. Therefore it is required to achieve that among adult persons in society the tolerance for all forms of violence, both in family as in a society, is at point zero. It is necessary to involves efforts (school, youth settings, work places), which reduce aggressive incidents in intimate relationship and family as a whole before they occur and focus on changing social attitudes, raising public awareness (media, politics, etc), and at the same time introduce a new values, thinking processes, and relationship skills which promote health interpersonal relationship and are incompatible with violence. It could be done also by collaborative efforts by school and communities and provide children and youth with information about local resources, and how to response to domestic violence situations. Only the criminal prosecutions against the perpetrators cannot reach the desired effects.

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Top 5 Theories of Community Development in Social Work

Community development is a critical aspect of social work practice, helping empower individuals and groups to improve their communities. As social workers work to facilitate positive change, they often draw upon established theories and models. Here are the top 5 theories of community development in social work, with examples of how they are applied:

1. Social Action Theory

Social action theory focuses on empowering marginalized communities to advocate for their rights and needs. The key premise is that disadvantaged groups must organize collectively to access resources and influence decision-makers.

Example: A social worker partners with a low-income housing community to form a tenant association. Together, they research landlord responsibilities, organize rent strikes, and lobby the city council for better maintenance and affordable units.

2. Locality Development Model

The locality development model emphasizes building community capacity and collaboration. The social worker acts as a facilitator, helping diverse stakeholders identify shared goals and work together to solve problems.

Example: In a rural town facing high unemployment, the social worker convenes business leaders, educators, and residents. They conduct a community needs assessment, then collaboratively develop a vocational training program to equip locals with in-demand skills.

3. Social Planning Model

The social planning model takes a more top-down, expert-driven approach. The social worker assesses community issues, designs interventions, and guides implementation, often relying on data and evidence-based practices.

Example: After a natural disaster, a social worker partners with city planners to analyze damage assessments and census data. They then develop a comprehensive recovery plan, including housing rehabilitation, small business grants, and mental health services.

4. Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD)

ABCD departs from a deficit-focused approach, instead emphasizing the unique strengths and resources already present within a community. The social worker helps residents recognize and mobilize their assets.

Example: In a neighborhood with high rates of youth unemployment, the social worker maps out existing job training programs, youth clubs, and entrepreneurial residents. They then facilitate an asset-mapping workshop to connect these resources and develop new small business initiatives.

5. Transformative Community Practice

Transformative community practice centers on addressing systemic inequities. The social worker collaborates with the community to critically analyze power structures and collectively work towards fundamental social change.

Example: Residents of a gentrifying urban area partner with a social worker to research discriminatory housing policies. They then organize public forums, lobby city council, and file civil rights lawsuits to prevent displacement of low-income families.

In conclusion, these five theories - social action, locality development, social planning, asset-based community development, and transformative community practice - represent a diverse range of community development approaches in social work. By understanding and applying these models, social workers can more effectively empower communities and catalyze sustainable change.

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199+ Social Work Research Topics [Updated 2024]
199+ Social Work Research Topics [Updated 2024] General / By admin / 28th November 2023. In the vast and dynamic field of social work, research plays a pivotal role in shaping interventions, policies, and practices. Social work research is not just an academic pursuit but a powerful tool for effecting positive change in communities.
225 Social Work Research Topics for College Students
Here is the list of the top 225 social work research topics for college students according to different categories; take a look. Child Well-being. How foster care affects child growth. Adoption and its effect on families. Ways to prevent child abuse. Role of social workers in child protection services. Struggles faced by children in foster care.
100 Social Work Research Topics and Tips on Choosing One
50 Hot Research Topics for Social Work Students. Difference in approaching children vs adolescents suffering from domestic violence. Success stories in preventing child abuse in certain regions/states. Strategies to encourage women to report domestic violence cases. Damage to families with ongoing domestic violence.
Community Development and Social Development: Informing Concepts of
Serving as editor of Community Development, the peer-reviewed journal of the Community Development Society, I was asked by Bruce Thyer, editor of Research on Social Work Practice, if I would like to exchange guest editorials.I was excited by the prospect and quickly agreed. This request was particularly appropriate, given recent progress in our respective fields.
Introduction—community development in social work education: themes for
Community Development occupies a marginal and sometimes uncertain place in Social Work education, particularly in the Global North (Hanna and Ife, 2019; Westoby et al., 2019) leading to questions about its relevance in a neoliberal Social Work environment that focuses on individuals and on actions to manage risk.This environment restricts collective and generative practices that attempt to ...
Research on Social Work Practice Community Development and Social The
Abstract. As a pluralistic field of scholarship and practice, community development offers insights useful to social development, especially the realm of social work. Among these contributions, of particular interest are the ways in which place matters. Assessing conceptualizations of community and community development, this essay addresses ...
Practice Research in Social Work: Themes, Opportunities and Impact
Practice research in social work is evolving and has been iteratively defined through a series of statements over the last 15 years (Epstein et al., 2015; Fook & Evans, 2011; Joubert et al., 2023; Julkunen et al., 2014; Sim et al., 2019).Most recently, the Melbourne Statement on Practice Research (Joubert et al., 2023) focused on practice meeting research, with an emphasis on 'the ...
Community Practice and Social Development in Social Work
Her research focuses on disaster social work, examining resilience, long-term recovery, social protection and community development. She teaches courses on social work research, social work practice with immigrants and refugees, sustainability and social development, international social work, and field education.
(PDF) Introduction-community development in social work education
Hanna, A. and Ife, J. (2019) Community development and social work -creating eld education opportunities for social work students, New Community, 16 (4), 48-51.
Community Practice and Social Development Themes and Implications
The introductory chapter of this collection explained how social work engages with social development and community practices. With a focus on the social dimensions of development, social work offers a unique approach based on values and principles that promote a human rights approach to empowerment, equality, equity, participation, environmental sustainability, and accountability (Heinonen ...
Community Development Approaches, Activities, and Issues
It is also challenging to change from a single-issue focused community development work (e.g., education, health, employment) to simultaneously multi-sectoral focused community development work with a social development approach (Pawar 2014). Thus, instead of only focusing on single issues in communities, community development practice needs to ...
Bridging the gap between social work and community development
Marginalisation of community development in social work. There are several factors that have contributed to the marginalization of community development in social work from 1980's in the United Kingdom (Das et al., Citation 2016), including the impact of managerialism, neoliberalism, and the increasing procedural and legalized bureaucratic state services.
Social Work Research Topics [With Tips]
A literature review should be written in a way that covers the most recent and relevant research in the field. Here are some common social work topics suitable for a literature review: Understanding the significance of poverty on child development. Evidence-based practices in substance abuse treatment.
Changing Contexts of Practice: Challenges for Social Work and Community
Contextualises community development practice, policy, and research within contemporary environments of neoliberalism, globalisation, and governance change. Critically evaluates implications and new opportunities for social work and community development, drawing on examples from Australia and Ireland.
Full article: Social work and the Sustainable Development Goals: an
The Global Agenda aims to unite social work and social development efforts around the world, offering focus for World Social Work Day and regional and national conferences as well as highlighting the role of social workers in addressing the Sustainable Development Goals. ... such as pedagogical innovations and university-community partnerships ...
100+ Best Social Work Research Topics
Social Work Research Topics for College Students. The impact of childhood trauma on mental health outcomes in adulthood. Examining the effectiveness of community-based interventions for reducing domestic violence. The intersection of race and poverty in accessing mental health services.
The Critical Role of Community Development in Social Work Education
Abstract. Social work, and social work education, is increasingly challenged by the changing nature of the globalized environments that it works within. The local and the global are deeply intertwined, leading to complex transnational problems and shared risks that continue to impact heavily on communities. Cultural diversity plays a key role ...
Social Work and Community Development
Forde Catherine and Lynch Deborah, Palgrave, London, UK, 2015, 192 pages, ISBN-10: 1137308389 (Pb), £22.99 stg. Social work and community development have always been uneasy bedfel-. lows. On one ...
Family Relationships and Well-Being
Translational Significance. It is important for future research and health promotion policies to take into account complexities in family relationships, paying attention to family context, diversity of family structures, relationship quality, and intersections of social statuses in an aging society to provide resources to families to reduce caregiving burdens and benefit health and well-being.
255+ Research Topics Related To Community Problems.
In exploring these 255+ research topics related to community problems, it's clear that there are countless opportunities to make a meaningful impact. All these topics focus on current problems of societies in various countries, including health care inequality, pollution, social justice and education.
Bringing the community into the classroom: professional identity and
Introduction. Community social work is viewed by many as a major subfield of the social work profession (e.g. Itzhaki-Braun et al., Citation 2022).In community social work, several intervention models place emphasis on community members' participation, as an essential element (Rothman, Citation 1979).Some community social work models call for a change in social power relations (Weiss-Dagan ...
Developmental and Community-Based Social Work
Developmental social work is presented in the literature as an evolving approach to practice which represents a paradigm shift requiring that social work's institutionalised ways of operating be modified due to the need to cause real improvements in people's lives as individuals and as a collective (Midgley and Conley 2010).The evolution of developmental social work as both a concept and ...
Domestic Violence and Abuse in Intimate Relationship from Public Health
She presents also his research data and states that in homes where domestic violence occur children are physically abused and neglected at the rate 15 times higher than is national average. She mentions some authors who identify adverse effects on children's physical, cognitive, emotional, and social development.
Top 5 Theories of Community Development in Social Work
Transformative community practice centers on addressing systemic inequities. The social worker collaborates with the community to critically analyze power structures and collectively work towards fundamental social change. Example: Residents of a gentrifying urban area partner with a social worker to research discriminatory housing policies ...