University of Phoenix Material

Foundations of Human Services Worksheet

Answer, in a 50- to 100-word response, each of the following questions:

1. Identify the four themes of human services.

The four themes of human services are: problems in living, increase of problems in the modern world, the need for sufficiency, and the goal of social care, social control, and rehabilitation.

2. Identify professional disciplines that influence human services.

Professional disciplines that influence human services are mental hospitals and clinics, and probation services and jails.

3. How have societal viewpoints concerning mental illness or health influenced human services over the past three centuries?

Before the American Revolution those with mental illness were left in the care of their families. If they had no family, there were placed in Almshouses. They were often locked up in the attic or cellar by their families. Some of them were even left to roam the countryside alone.

4. How have societal viewpoints concerning child welfare influenced human services over the past three centuries?

There are many social viewpoints concerning child welfare that influenced human services because these children were put into juvenile facilities. They were put in crowded and poor conditions. This ultimately led to children being put in private homes because many people believed that children were the most vulnerable and deserving group in society. Other forms of child welfare were mother or widow pensions, juvenile courts, probation systems, and specific laws for children.

5. How have societal viewpoints concerning incarceration and probation influenced human services over the past three centuries?

The earliest form of probation began in 1813, when Judge Peter O began placing youthful offenders under the supervision of officers and officials. In 1841, a new form of supervision known as friendly supervision was introduced. He began bailing drunks and other unfortunates of jail and even paying fines. He then provided friendly supervision while they adjusted to life. The Salvation Army also provided its services to ex-convicts in the 19th century. The Salvation Army provided food, shelter, and a home to those who needed it.

6. Explain how political and legislative changes have affected client care.

The Medicate Prescription Drug, Improvement, and Modernization Act of 2003 provides outpatient prescription drug benefits for on Medicare Part D. These benefits are available to over 40 milliion people. President George W. Bush started an effort that brought faith based agencies and ogranizations into partnership with the federal government by creating what is called the White House Office of Faith based and Community Initiatives.