Theory and Practice of Social Work in Western Europe in the XIX-XX Centuries

Abstract

The article describes how social work theory and practice evolved in Western Europe over the middle of the 19th and 20th century and gathered a wealth of experience. In the 1950s of the 20th century, the magnificent theory of the scientific viewpoint was established. V. Solovyov provided the most accurate understanding of O. Comte's "positive philosophy." "O. Comte's personality arouses sympathy rather than terror," stated V. Solovyov.

The necessity for professional training of those who help the destitute was raised loudly towards the end of the 19th and 20th century. Women shouldn't work in social work, according to a group of persons that was founded. In order to work effectively with individuals in need, supporters of the profession's exclusivity for men underlined the importance of understanding the characteristics of the client. However, women started to play a significant part in the study of social work theory and in arranging the professional training of social workers in the USA around the end of the 19th and the beginning of the 20th century.