History of Social Work Practice
in the Field of Developmental Disabilities
The profession of social work has changed continuously in response to changes in American society. Social work practice began in the United States in the late 1800's. It was linked to the charity and mutual aid societies that began to grow in Europe during the Middle Ages. Social work practice was committed to improving conditions for immigrants in large cities and for poor families. Over the years, social workers have expanded their roles to include the field of developmental disabilities and provide leadership in developing programs that serve children and adults with developmental disabilities and their families.
Late
1800 to Early 1900 - Public Institutions for People with Mental Retardation
The
US Children's Bureau of 1912
Mental
Retardation in the 1950s
The
1960s - Mental Retardation and Mental Health Construction Act of 1963
The
1970s and 1980s - Deinstitutionalization and Support Models
Center on Human Development and Disability,
Clinical Training Unit, University of Washington,
Box 357920, Seattle, WA 98195-7920 lend@u.washington.edu