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ASSIGNMENT INSTRUCTIONS:
2-3 pages in APA format about the history of your selected population. Include citations and references including NASW’s Code of Ethics. Use the select questions below, to guide you:
Population: History of Alcoholism and the Justice System
How has this group been treated historically in our culture? What is the history (e.g., laws, experiences, etc.) related to this type of treatment or discrimination? What assumptions, beliefs, or attributions appear to drive this treatment or discrimination of this group?
What are examples of specific oppressive or discriminatory practices that this group has encountered as they interact with various institutions? You may include social, economic, educational, faith, and healthcare institutions in your discussion, as well as any other institutions of relevance.
What examples of strength and resilience are, or have been, evident within members of this group?
Discuss how NASW’s Code of Ethics applies to working with this population.
HOW TO WORK ON THIS ASSIGNMENT (EXAMPLE ESSAY / DRAFT)
Introduction
The history of alcoholism and the justice system has been marked by discrimination and oppressive practices. Alcoholism has long been stigmatized and treated as a moral failing, leading to the marginalization and criminalization of those who struggle with addiction. This essay will examine the historical treatment of alcoholism and the factors that drive this discrimination, as well as the experiences of those who struggle with addiction as they interact with various institutions, including social, economic, educational, faith, and health care institutions. Additionally, this essay will explore the examples of strength and resilience that have been evident within the alcoholism community and will discuss the implications of NASW’s Code of Ethics for working with this population.
Historical Treatment of Alcoholism
Alcoholism has been treated as a moral failing and a criminal justice issue throughout much of history. In the 19th century, the temperance movement sought to ban alcohol in the United States, and those who struggled with addiction were seen as weak and lacking in moral fiber. This stigma continued into the 20th century, and alcoholism was often treated as a criminal justice issue, with individuals being incarcerated for public drunkenness or other alcohol-related crimes (Raphael, 2016).
Discriminatory Practices and Factors Driving Discrimination
Discriminatory practices against individuals struggling with alcoholism have been driven by a variety of factors, including moral judgment, prejudice, and misunderstanding. The criminalization of alcoholism has led to the marginalization of those who struggle with addiction and has resulted in unequal treatment in various institutions, including the criminal justice system, where individuals with addiction are more likely to be incarcerated than to receive treatment (Raphael, 2016). Additionally, social and economic discrimination has resulted in limited access to health care, education, and other resources for individuals with alcoholism.
Institutional Experiences of Alcoholism
Individuals who struggle with alcoholism often face discrimination and oppression as they interact with various institutions. The criminal justice system is particularly problematic, as individuals with addiction are more likely to be incarcerated than to receive treatment (Raphael, 2016). Health care institutions may also be unresponsive to the needs of individuals with alcoholism, as they may be seen as responsible for their own condition and therefore undeserving of care (Raphael, 2016). Additionally, social and economic discrimination may limit access to education, employment, and other resources, further exacerbating the challenges faced by individuals with alcoholism.
Strength and Resilience in the Alcoholism Community
Despite the challenges faced by individuals struggling with alcoholism, examples of strength and resilience are evident within the community. Many individuals who struggle with addiction are able to overcome their challenges and go on to lead productive and fulfilling lives. This resilience is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the importance of providing support and resources to those who struggle with addiction.
NASW’s Code of Ethics and Working with the Alcoholism Community
NASW’s Code of Ethics calls for social workers to promote social justice and to challenge oppressive practices and discrimination. This code of ethics is particularly relevant for social workers working with individuals who struggle with alcoholism, as they are often subject to discriminatory practices and may face limited access to resources and support. Social workers have an important role to play in advocating for the rights and needs of individuals with alcoholism, and in working to ensure that they receive the care and support they need to overcome their challenges and lead fulfilling lives.
Conclusion
The history of alcoholism and the justice system has been marked by discrimination and oppressive practices. This essay has explored the factors that drive this discrimination, as well as the experiences of individuals with addiction as they interact with various institutions, including the criminal justice system, social services, and healthcare institutions. Despite the challenges faced by this population, examples of strength and resilience.
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