How is "intervention" defined in a social work context?

In the context of social work, "intervention" is defined as actions taken by social workers to facilitate change. This includes a wide array of activities designed to improve the situation of individuals, families, groups, or communities facing various challenges. Interventions are often strategic and based on assessments made during the planning phase, but they emphasize active engagement and the implementation of solutions to address specific problems.

Successful interventions typically involve direct work with clients, evidence-based practices, and a focus on achieving measurable outcomes. These actions can take many forms, such as counseling, advocacy, support groups, and connecting clients with resources. The central goal is to enable clients to overcome obstacles and achieve greater well-being.

The other options do not capture the essence of what "intervention" means in social work. Activities focused solely on administrative tasks do not directly assist clients in making change. Steps taken after planning may not represent intervention by themselves, as intervention implies active involvement rather than just following a process. Lastly, programs aimed exclusively at community development might contribute to intervention on a larger scale but do not encompass the individual or direct action aspect that defines interventions in social work.