Explain the historical development of case work in West and India
Case work is a method of social work that focuses on helping individuals cope with personal and social problems through one-on-one support and guidance. The method has evolved over time both in the West and in India, influenced by social reforms, charitable efforts, and the development of professional social work. In this blog, we’ll explore the historical development of case work in both regions in simple language.
1. Development of Case Work in the West
Early Charitable Work
The roots of case work can be traced back to the charitable and religious organizations of Europe in the 18th and 19th centuries. These organizations provided food, shelter, and moral guidance to the poor and needy.
The Charity Organization Society (COS)
One of the first organized efforts to develop case work came with the formation of the Charity Organization Society (COS) in England in the late 1800s. The COS focused on the idea of investigating individual cases thoroughly before offering help. This introduced the concept of personalized assistance and laid the foundation for case work methods.
Mary Richmond’s Contribution
Mary Ellen Richmond, an American social worker, is considered the pioneer of case work. In her book “Social Diagnosis” published in 1917, she introduced the idea of analyzing a client’s situation before planning intervention. She emphasized understanding the individual, their environment, and their problems.
Professionalization of Social Work
In the early 20th century, case work became a formal method of professional social work. Schools of social work were established in the U.S. and Europe, where case work was taught as a method. The profession grew in response to urbanization, poverty, and social issues brought on by industrialization and wars.
Development Through World Wars
During World War I and II, the need for social services grew rapidly. Social workers played a major role in helping families, veterans, and displaced people. This further strengthened case work as a vital method.
2. Development of Case Work in India
Traditional Social Support Systems
India had informal systems of helping individuals in distress through family, caste, and religious institutions. However, there was no professional social work until the 20th century.
Missionary and Voluntary Work
Christian missionaries and reform movements during British rule introduced charitable work in India. These efforts included education, health care, and support for the poor, which later inspired professional approaches.
Establishment of Professional Training
The formal beginning of case work in India started with the founding of the Sir Dorabji Tata Graduate School of Social Work (now TISS – Tata Institute of Social Sciences) in Mumbai in 1936. This was the first school of social work in Asia. It introduced case work as a professional method.
Growth in Post-Independence Period
After India’s independence in 1947, there was a focus on nation-building. Social workers played a role in rural development, health, and education. Case work became important in dealing with individuals facing problems due to poverty, displacement, and lack of resources.
Government and NGO Involvement
The Indian government and NGOs began to hire trained social workers to work in welfare programs. Case work was used in hospitals, schools, correctional institutions, and child welfare services.
3. Modern Trends
- Today, case work is used widely in both government and private sectors.
- Technology, research, and evidence-based practices have improved the effectiveness of case work.
- There is greater awareness of individual rights, mental health, and social justice, which enhances the relevance of case work.
Conclusion
The development of case work in the West laid the foundation for scientific, individualized social work practice. India adopted and adapted these methods to fit its cultural and social context. From charitable efforts to professional intervention, case work has evolved into a vital tool for helping individuals overcome challenges and improve their quality of life.