Social Work and Risks in Life Perspective

The course is designed as an integration of contemporary insights into relation between social work and psychosocial risks in everyday life. Social problems and crises in interpersonal relations represent the key subject of researches and finding solutions, applying methods in social work practice.
Psychosocial risks, such as domestic violence (abuse of women and children), addictions, crime, mental illnesses, poverty, disability, ageing etc. in interaction with social protection activities have visible consequences (crisis situations) when it comes to functioning of clients in specific life ages - childhood, adolescence, adult age and elders.

It is expected that students will grasp the dynamic of relations: social work-psychosocial risks - especially in integration of crisis situations. It is also expected from students to learn about the above-mentioned relations and recognize the scotomas in practice (monitoring and screening). Students will be able to have insight into a unique theory and practice perspective on risks in social work. Also, to determine, discuss and assess psychosocial risks in everyday exchange of information in social work practice. It is also expected that students will be able to plan their own research and find measurable indicators in activities of social work that could be applied in the everyday practice.

The content of this course is based on a significant theory information concerning social work in line with the tradition of humanistic and critical social work theories, as well as system theory. Lectures, practical summery and final exam will provide opportunity for students to manage risks in social work. The main wider topics are:
- Social Work and psychosocial risks throughout life cycles of family
- Social Work and psychosocial risks in protection of people with disability
- Social Work and psychosocial risks in working with addicts
- Social Work and psychosocial risks as a consequence of marginalization

Lectures are anticipated to include active participation of students, encouraging their independent activities. This means that different methods will be used: panel lectures, discussions and presentations, small group work, mentoring.