Violence is a complex problem that disproportionately impacts people of color, youth and people living in poverty. Social work's primary mission is to "to enhance human well-being…with particular attention to the needs and empowerment of people who are vulnerable, oppressed, and living in poverty." While social workers already contend with the impact of violence in, for example, the juvenile justice system, child abuse and domestic violence, by and large their involvement is usually treatment or intervention. Social work can expand its ability to enhance well-being by an increased and systematic attention to prevention.
The presentation will build on social work's ongoing contribution to violence prevention, particularly through community development work and coalition building. A focus will be placed on defining the three keys of violence prevention: 1) violence is complex and therefore solutions must be comprehensive; 2) risk and resiliency factors must be addressed; 3) and an action plan must be implemented. Systematic strategies and examples will be provided to address each key area. The potential roles of the National Association of Social Workers and Council on Social Work Education in advancing violence prevention will also be discussed.
At the conclusion of this session, participants will be able to: 1) list the three key areas of violence prevention; 2) describe four tools and methods for developing effective violence prevention at a community-wide level; 3) develop violence prevention strategies that are known to be effective; 4) and recognize the roles of NASW and CSWE in advancing violence prevention efforts.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this session, participants will be able to: 1) list the three key areas of violence prevention; 2) describe four tools and methods for developing effective violence prevention at a community-wide level; 3) develop violence prevention strategies that are known to be effective; 4) and recognize the roles of NASW and CSWE in advancing violence prevention efforts
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.