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Social Work: A Brief History

By haylyray13

  • Moral Treatment Movement

    Led by Philippe Pinel, this movement geared the treatment of mental illness towards more humane and sympathetic practices.

  • Formation of the NAACP:

    Originally formed after outrage grew over slave lynching, the NAACP is still a highly respected organization that helps African Americans in a variety of civil and legal matters.

  • Formation of American Association of Social Workers:

    Helped establish structure and division of duties amongst the practice.

  • The Federal Emergency Relief Act:

    This act was designed to provide emergency funding to citizens who were unemployed or unable to take care of their families.

  • Public Works Administration

    This was set in place to create jobs and increase traffic to low-income areas by building new schools, roads, and bridges.

  • The Social Security Act:

    This act is still one of the most important pieces of U.S. legislation. It created social insurance, public assistance, and health services to citizens who qualified.

  • Deinstitutionalization

    This major change in the treatment of the mentally ill shifted treatment from mental institutions into community treatment. It allowed citizens more choice over their care.

  • Brown vs Board of Education:

    This landmark Supreme Court Case overturned "separate but equal" laws. This was a large step in the promotion of racial equality.

  • Older Americans Act

    This act set up a structurally sound system in which older Americans could receive necessary transportation, healthcare, and food.

  • The Developmental Disabilities Assistance Act

    This act provided grants and promoted advocacy of individuals with developmental disabilities.

  • Family Medical Leave Act

    Still widely scrutinized, this act required companies with more than 50 employees to provide 12 weeks of unpaid leave for childbirth, adoption, or to take care of a sick relative.

  • The Affordable Health Care Act

    This act, created by President Obama, was designed to allow citizens easier access to healthcare, cheaper healthcare, and more choice in the healthcare benefits they were paying for.