Research Summary

Abstract:

This theoretical article navigates the complex meanings and powers of social work, placing the concept of "care" at the absolute heart of the professional engagement of social workers. The research explores the multifaceted nature of social work, which operates at the crossroads of science, academic discipline, and art, leading to inherent tensions and paradoxes regarding its actual purpose and historical identity. The author analyzes how social workers contribute to the well-being of individuals, groups, and entire communities, often managing the distress and suffering of others as a core part of their mission. The paper discusses the contemporary challenges of social intervention in societies characterized by multidimensional and rapid shifts. It delves into the transdisciplinary clinical approach necessary for addressing social malaise and the evolving role of the social worker in a globalized world. The study provides a reflective space on the stakes of social intervention, emphasizing the need for a rigorous characterization of social work’s utility. By examining historical figures and contemporary practices, the article highlights the ethical dimensions of "caring" for vulnerable populations. Ultimately, the research underscores that social work is an essential pillar for social cohesion, requiring a balance between technical expertise and human empathy to address the complex needs of modern societies.