- Nicala Williams

Adrienne Parker (Reply)

Not only would there literally be help on deck but the social workers would understand what the sailor is referring to or would need due to having a requirement of service within that branch. I thought that was a major benefit for the sailors, because then they would have someone that would actually understand . Another thing that I found more important is how fast they react to those on the ship or throughout the program that are in need of help or struggling in crisis. That amazed me by how fast their responses are for their people.

• Elisabeth Cox (replying)

Work Cited

Cox, Lisa, et al., 2021, Introduction to Social Work

I agree with you! It was very interesting to learn that the VA is the largest employer of advanced degree social workers. This was all great information!

When military veterans are having difficulty adjusting to civilian life, military social workers may be able to aid by putting them in touch with resources that can help them locate housing and social services.

A military social worker doesn't just work individually. They work with other professionals like psychiatrists, physicians, and medical officers. However, sometimes a military social worker will get burned out and feel frustrated because they are limited in what they can do to help, and that's because of a lack of support from resources. The social worker may also find it complicated how to work with military individuals because they have unique cases; therefore, trying to find a solution or the correct way to start helping the individual can also become complex. The job they do is very crucial for mental and behavioral health, but I do find it interesting that no matter how hard some cases may be, they will always do what they can to help.

I find it interesting how there is a specific education and training for military social work. To begin with, I didn't know there was one. I always thought veterans or active members had to find their own social worker, but even better is that at their base, they are already military social workers. I genuinely do believe they make a difference in someone's life. My boyfriend's dad is a veteran who suffered from PTSD and had sad experiences; however, now I know he sought help from a military worker, and I notice that he doesn't suffer from anything and lives his life as if he never experienced sad events when he was active. I'm glad that there is specific training for them to deal with such experiences. 

The article follows the experiences of Dr. Chris Flaherty, US Air Force Major, and Clinical Social Work Officer.

Through his personal narrative, I learned how conflict of interests can arise when working as a Military social worker. Although you are employed by the military, you also work for your client. To be effective, you'll have to find the balance between serving your client's interest and the needs of your mission. This puts social workers in a bit of a limbo, but it made me appreciate their role as advocates even further.

"I’ve learned that a military social worker has to have a high degree of knowledge regarding the military culture, ethics, and codes and only 13 percent meet the needed knowledge."

-Maria Schatzling Section 2

Seeing only 13 percent meet these standards is an astonishing statistic. I think it conveys how much knowledge is needed to work in a military environment. Although sympathy is important, it can be expressed by anyone, regardless of if they understand your plight. To express empathy requires a shared experience. By learning these facets of the military, you in exchange build better relationships with the people of your cause. Great post!

Fun Fact- Social workers were first commissioned as officers in the U.S. Army in July 1944.

Hello Janet, I really enjoyed reading your post, it had a lot of good information. I do agree that transitioning from civilian to military life can be very stressful, but having a social worker helping you navigate through these hard times can be very helpful.

Military personnel may also struggle with unemployment and financial difficulties. Meanwhile, families of service members may face issues like domestic violence and child abuse.

when men and women are in the military only because they have volunteered to join." Knowing that this shift took place and seeing modern activity social workers have a great deal to offer to the military. They can act in roles like case managers in the VA, working in the military to help with active enlisetd, and even things like ptsd therapist.

Trenton

Trenton

Trenton

I did not realize that the military was responsible for a large portion of advanced social work but I am glad that it is. In addition it makes sense when thinking of the VA because that job can incorporate all types of social work especially legal, mental, and advocasy. Overall good points on everything.