Changes In Social Work Outlined By Doctor

Press, Volume C, Issue 29680, 25 November 1961, Page 16

Changes In Social Work Outlined By Doctor

The concept of social work had changed from concern with the physical problems of man to his psychological and sociological needs. Dr. J. H. Robb, of the School of Social Science. Victoria University, told the annual meeting of the social service council of the Diocese of Christchurch. Along with this change had come another change in the type of education given people who took up social work. Social work had began in Britain in the latter part of the Victorian era. as people became aware of the need to improve the economic and health situation of the poor. As economic conditions improved, the problems of people changed. “The changing social attitudes gave different definitions of ‘need.’ The ‘deserving poor’ have gone along with the con-

descending attitude of those giving assistance. Now we help all those people, regardless of class or economic position, who are in need,” he said. The requirements of a social worker followed one of two schools of thought. “There are those who think a social worker should have a kind heart and a strong head. Others consider a degree in factual knowledge essential. Today’s social workers received education in both schools. “The ordinary kind of swot, the head-in-a-book type, is inadequate for thia work. Student social workers are helped to develop themselves along certain lines and are given academic and technical training as well," said Dr. Robb. While establishing a twoway relationship with a person, a social worker had to retain an objective view of the situation, if any solution was to be found. Dr. Robb said social work was relatively new in New Zealand. In the 11 years of the Social Science School’s existence, only 99 diplomas had been awarded. “There is still a great unfilled demand for people capable of carrying out this work,” he said.