Course Description
An overview of military social work with regard to practice, research, and policy development and implementation. It will also examine how these characteristics impact communities, research, practice, and families.
Additional Requirements for Graduate Students:
Graduate students are expected to write a 500-word weekly
reflection post (compared to 250-word posts for
undergraduates).
Graduate students will complete a 10-12-page final research
paper
assignment (7 pages for undergraduates) with a minimum of 10
references (5 for undergraduates). The graduate student paper
will
also include a description of evidence-based practice citing
primary peer-reviewed research as well as an application of
social
work theories to their selected topic.
Athena Title
Military Social Work
Equivalent Courses
Not open to students with credit in SOWK 5390 or SOWK 7390
Non-Traditional Format
This course will be taught 95% or more online.
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Course Objectives
A. Compare and contrast the military personnel and veteran cultures with regard to boundaries, reintegration, societal stereotypes, and biases. B. Analyze the historical frameworks used to address military personnel and veterans’ issues and identify any potentially oppressive policies and procedures. C. Differentiate between the unique relationships among military personnel and veterans, families, the military branches, and veterans’ organizations noting the significant differences they experience from those of non-military and non-veteran citizens. D. Demonstrate a culturally sensitive and ethically sound ability to communicate with service members of various statuses, such as active duty, retired, guard or reserve, in combat, or garrison personnel. E. Summarize the needs of military personnel and veteran individuals, their families, and communities in a way that will inform civilian providers and workplace managers about the issues experienced by military personnel and veterans. F. Evaluate current social support systems and socioeconomic resources available to military personnel and veterans, their families, and communities, and know the service gaps. G. Formulate recommendations for the development of social and economic resources and policies in order to enhance the lives of military personnel, veterans, and their families.
Topical Outline
A. Introduction and Course Overview B. Role of the Military in the United States C. Today's Active Duty Family D. Military Life and Coping E. Spouses and Military Families F. Family Stress, Adaptation, and Support; Marital Adjustment and Deployment G. Violence and Military Families H. Combat: Deployment and Reintegration I. Homelessness and Suicide J. Health and Mental Health for Military Service Members and Families K. Diversity in the Military: Women Military Service Members L. Violence in the Military Workplace M. Diversity in the Military: Ethnic Diversity and National Origin N. Diversity in the Military: Sexual Minorities O. Ethical Considerations in Serving Military Service Persons and Families