Social Work: Gender Based Violence

Designed so that its content and structure may accommodate special issues not offered within the boundaries of an existing course. Open to First-Year and Sophomore students.

Meets synchronously Tuesdays 1-4, other times asynchronous Special Topics courses cannot carry CC designations

This course explores Gender-Based Violence (GBV) from a social work perspective, examining its root causes, impacts, and the role of social workers in prevention, advocacy, and intervention. Students will critically analyze policies, service delivery models, and best practices for addressing GBV, including intimate partner violence, sexual assault, human trafficking, and gendered violence in marginalized communities. The course integrates intersectional frameworks and trauma-informed approaches. Students will engage in case studies, discussions, and policy analysis to understand how systemic inequalities, cultural beliefs, and structural barriers contribute to GBV. The course emphasizes the importance of survivor-centered approaches, ethical considerations, and the role of social workers in policy advocacy and direct interventions. Special focus will be given to vulnerable populations, including LGBTQ+ individuals, Indigenous communities, refugees, and survivors of conflict-related sexual violence.

By the end of this course, students will develop a comprehensive understanding of gender-based violence (GBV), its causes, consequences, and structural determinants, while evaluating theories, policies, and service models designed for prevention and intervention. They will also apply trauma-informed and survivor-centered approaches, analyze the intersectionality of identity in GBV experiences, and examine ethical and professional responsibilities in working with survivors. This course will meet on Tuesdays from 1-4 pm Synchronously online.

Learning assignments include: Active participation and collaborative learning. Two reflection papers, where students choose from topics such as Media Analysis, Case Study Reflections, Privilege and Oppression Mapping, Letter to a Survivor, Policy Reflections, Self-Care Planning, Role-Playing, and Community Engagement. A final GBV project and presentation.