Family Social Worker

Family social workers help families improve the social behavior and psychological state of their children, thus improving their academic ability and quality of life. They provide assistance and social services to increase the well being of children and improve their academic progress. Other family social workers work with senior citizens, or organize support groups for caregivers of children or caregivers of seniors. Typically, they work for government agencies or schools. Various specialties within the field include child welfare, family services, child protective services, occupational, or gerontology.

The family social worker should above all, be emotionally stable and mature. They must be able to cope with responsibility and work independently without supervision. Thus must work well with others, and must inspire their clients to trust and respect them.

Education and Credentials Required
Family social workers are typically expected to have a bachelor's degree in social work (BSW). Those who have bachelor's degrees with majors in psychology, sociology, and other related fields might still find employment in entry-level positions. Some jobs stipulate a master's degree in social work (MSW), particularly positions in health settings and clinical work. Public and private agencies may also require an advanced degree. The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accredits about 436 BSW programs and 149 MSW programs.

Future Prospects
Employment opportunities for family social workers will most likely grow more quickly than the national average. It will in part be a result of increasing enrollment in public schools and also because of the increasing emphasis on helping disabled student integrate into the general population.

Salary Range
The median salary, as of 2002, for family social workers was $33,150. The top ten percent salary-wise made more than $54,250, whereas the bottom ten percent made less than $21,270. Experience, location, skill, reputation, hours worked and other factors impact income.