What does casework focus on in the field of social work?

Casework in social work primarily focuses on direct intervention with individuals and families. This practice involves assessing the needs and challenges faced by clients and developing tailored strategies to help them cope or resolve issues in their lives.

Social workers engaging in casework work closely with clients to provide support, resources, and empowerment, enabling them to navigate their unique circumstances. This approach emphasizes building a trusting relationship between the social worker and the client, fostering an environment where clients feel safe to express their concerns and work collaboratively towards solutions.

The direct intervention aspect involves not only addressing immediate needs but also considering long-term goals for clients' well-being. Social workers might help clients access services, provide counseling, advocate for their rights, and engage in problem-solving to facilitate positive changes in their lives. This hands-on, client-centered focus is what distinguishes casework from other areas within social work, such as policy analysis, research and evaluation, or organizational management, which do not directly involve working with individuals and families in their personal contexts.