What Is Human Services

"What is Human Services?"

Tiffany Collins

Introduction to Human Services- BSHS 302

March 24, 2012

Instructor: Linda Cook

Abstract

In this essay, you will read and learn what Human Services is, the goal of human services, the history of human services, what are some common intervention strategies, and some common ethical considerations.

What is Human Services?

Human Services is not a recent concept; it has been around since the days of Feudal systems in Old England where it was the duty of the Lord to care of his possessions in which included the value of taking care of the old or sick of his kingdom. Human Services in today's world plays a very significant function that has evolved over time to help citizens of all ages, races, and gender that cannot meet the basic needs to. For one to appreciate how human services have become such a significant part of the world, one must understand the fundamental nature and use of the human services practice. In this essay, you will read and learn what Human Services is, the goal of human services, the history of human services, what are some common intervention strategies, and some common ethical considerations.

Understanding Human Services

Human services is a "catch all" term and covers innumerable career fields; nevertheless, helping people meet their basic physical and emotional needs is one objective the professionals that fall under the vast umbrella of human services have in common. The responsibilities and duties can differ to an extent; responsibilities can comprise of assessing the needs of the consumer, determining eligibility for benefits from the government such as health: ex. medical and government assistance programs. Human service professionals also play various roles in the community. These roles include organizing group activities, help with emergency response programs, and guide therapy, and crisis intervention teams, depending on the setting, human service agents may also facilitate assistance to adults who need assistance with every day rituals such as: brushing teeth, washing up properly, taking their medication correctly, acting as a contact between the client and the medical personnel, and even communicating with clients' family members. In some form a human service professional are involved with every aspect of a client's life to progress in quality.

The Goal of Human Services

The goal in this human services element is to create a community y in which all members have the opportunity to meet their basic physical, economic, and social needs, for the enhancement of their quality of life ("Human Services Element," 2004).

The History of Human Services

The history of human services traces its historic roots back to the 1800s. England's social welfare system has affected the welfare system within the United States, which in turn led to the growth of the human services career. In England, the underprivileged were seen as a straight hazard to social order once feudalism ended; to care for them a system was created. The system sorted the underprivileged into various categories. The practice of human services is predisposed by the existing social welfare procedures