NCJ Number
91642
Date Published
1983
Length
11 pages
Annotation
A curriculum for social work in the justice system must prepare students for cooperation with criminal justice professionals and for the development of new services where the contribution of social work is not readily accepted.
Abstract
Social workers in the justice system are now working with adjudicated and nonadjudicated people -- including juveniles, families, and adults who come to the attention of the system for a variety of reasons. The Jane Addams College of Social Work has made a heavy investment in the development of innovative justice system programs. Two major concepts, cooperation and social change, underpin the learning that has resulted from community-university innovation at the Jane Addams College. Interdisciplinary cooperation with criminal justice professionals involves the recognition and definition of achievable goals that are mutually beneficial, the development of role definitions for each involved profession, and developing good will between the cooperating professions. The ability to initiate and manage social change is also required, since many of the cooperative relationships and services desired are new and challenge old patterns of operation, power, and attitudes. The objectives of a curriculum for social work in the justice system should include (1) the imparting of a knowledge base for direct practice with clients and for the planning, administration, and management of social services in the justice system; (2) the development of skills for working in the justice system through the use of internships; (3) the provision of interdisciplinary study and opportunities for working with a range of criminal justice professionals; and (4) an orientation toward public policy, program development, and evaluation needs of the justice system. Twelve references are provided.