A Century of Social Work in Criminal Justice and Correctional Settings

Abstract

Throughout the 20th century, forensic social workers have been on the front lines completing pre-sentence reports, risk assessments, mental health and substance abuse counseling, group therapy, community outreach, and social service and employment advocacy for juvenile delinquents, adult offenders, and sexual assault and domestic violence victims. This article bridges the past to the present in terms of social work policies and practices in the criminal justice system. The point of departure is the founding of the first juvenile court in 1899 in Cook County, Illinois. This article examines signifi cant federal funding initiatives which have benefited youths, adult offenders, and crime victims. Emphasis is placed on the emerging role of forensic social workers in probation departments, law enforcement agencies, state and fed eral correctional facilities, addiction treatment programs, and domestic violence programs.

Key Words:

• Forensic social work
• crime victims
• juvenile justice
• offenders