SOWO 40483 Social Work and Social Justice through Sport, Recreation, and Play
Prerequisites: SOWO 10833. Social work in sport is an emerging specialization within the greater field of social work. There are many issues relevant to social workers that are distinctly related to sports and athletes both nationally and globally. Topics of interest to social workers and other disciplines alike include
public concern for player welfare and conduct, mental health among athletes, coaching and
organizational neglect (i.e., issues internal to U.S. gymnastics, Penn State, etc.), equal pay, and
advocacy for ownership and representation among exploited athletes. This course aims to provide a
foundation for professionals interested in social work and social justice through sport,
recreation, and play settings to assist clients, programs, and organization in their efforts to
support equity, global health, and psychological well-being for individuals and athletes.