Origin and Development of Case Work
Social case work began in the late 19th century as a response to poverty and social problems during the Industrial Revolution. It first developed in the West, especially in the United States and the United Kingdom.
Origin
- Charity Organization Societies (COS): Formed in the 1860s, they sent friendly visitors to help poor families.
- Mary Richmond: A pioneer who wrote “Social Diagnosis” in 1917, establishing the foundations of case work.
Development
- 1920s-30s: Case work became more professional, focusing on individual personality and psychology.
- Post World War II: Case work expanded into hospitals, schools, and correctional settings.
- In India: Case work was introduced in 1936 with the Tata Institute of Social Sciences. It was influenced by Western methods but later adapted to Indian culture and needs.
Conclusion
Case work has evolved from charity work to a professional method. It continues to grow with new approaches and is an essential part of social work today.