Social work: its origins, historical development, and transformation into a scientific profession and contemporary professional practice

Abstract

This research explores the emergence and development of social work as a humanitarian profession aimed at achieving social adaptation and well-being for individuals and society. The research problem centers on understanding the historical and professional evolution of social work and the factors influencing this development. The researcher adopted both the historical and descriptive methods to trace its various stages.

The study addresses key concepts and terminology, the development of the profession in both Western and Arab contexts, and reviews the role of social work as a profession in addressing social problems and its diverse fields of application. The research concludes that social work has undergone fundamental transformations—from charitable work to a scientific profession—and recommends strengthening professional training, expanding scientific research, and employing technology in professional practice.