Care & Control: Role of Social Workers in History of Juvenile Justice System- Past, Present, Future

This Master's level course will focus on juvenile justice, specifically emphasizing the history of social work in the United States. We will explore social workers' role in supporting children considered “at-risk," the ways that the social work field has perpetuated harm against children with disciplinary issues, and the ways they have intervened to support children in rehabilitative and restorative ways. We will also examine the implications of past historical events and legislation on the present and the future of social work interventions and policies. Finally, we will examine the consequences of the Tough on Crime era and the subsequent increase in reactionary security protocols throughout communities and schools. With this historical examination and understanding, we will seek ways to move forward as social work advocates, community organizers, practitioners, and policymakers.