Challenges of Social Workers in the Multidisciplinary Team in the Penitentiary System

Abstract

Today, social workers are found in many communities and institutional environments, including social service agencies, child care agencies, schools, hospitals, mental health programs, substance abusers, courts, prisons worldwide. Regardless of where they practice, to be effective social work practitioners, they share some unique professional needs. Today, the ability to assist and empower clients struggling with various issues, involved in legal matters, injustices, and on the brink of legal protection, is required. Social workers are required to be able to collaborate with professionals and other parties interested in helping the client navigate through a variety of financial, psychological, emotional, and legal concerns. This study addresses the importance of the practical development field of a forensic social worker, a field that is usually neglected and misunderstood. The study focuses on preliminary work on this field by showing a broader view of forensic social work which includes the knowledge and skills necessary to practice effectively in the socio-legal environment. "Forensic social worker" encompasses not only a narrow group of victims or abusers involved in juvenile justice and criminal justice but also individuals with mental health issues and programs affected by the police and state laws. Interdisciplinary practice and legal knowledge are essential for social workers to ensure that clients are provided with effective service. The inclusion of legal rules is rarely addressed in social work in a meaningful and practical way. This study provides practical knowledge in the collaborative work of forensic social workers.

Received: 13 February 2024 / Accepted: 19 March 2024 / Published: 23 March 2024