Military Social Work

Catalog description

This course provides a historical framework of the social work collaborative practice with military members and their support networks. Delineation regarding the unique challenges for members of the military, their families, veterans of both war and peace time, and persons who have suffered wounds or other extremes during military service, such as imprisonment during a war or conflict, military sanctions, or abuse, will be delivered. Policies that impact working with military members will be another focus of study, including the implementation and repeal of “Don’t ask, don’t tell, don’t pursue,” multiple deployments, the GI Bill® benefits, and limitations of adequate VA services compared to the immense needs of wounded veterans. Students will demonstrate understanding of the impact of related policies on individual service participants and families. In this class students will learn the importance of understanding military cultures, treating military service participants with respect, attention to the importance of confidentiality, and strict adherence to the practice protocols that ensure confidentiality. This course assesses all Social Work EPAS Competencies (1-9).