The strategic importance of social work in preventing harmful habits among young people
Karimova Marjona Faxriddin
By: Karimova Marjona Faxriddin
ABSTRACT
This article analyzes the causes of the spread of harmful habits among young people in the context of globalization, their socio-psychological consequences, and modern approaches to social work practice in addressing these problems. The article provides an in-depth examination of the role of social workers in preventing deviant behavior, the advantages of the case management system, and social rehabilitation processes.
Keywords: Social work, youth policy, harmful habits, deviant behavior, prevention, case management, resocialization, “Inson” Centers, social therapy, risk group.
INTRODUCTION
In the modern world, young people are considered the most dynamic segment of society, but at the same time, they are among the most vulnerable to external influences. The rapid development of information technologies and intercultural integration have broadened young people’s worldviews while also increasing the number of factors that negatively affect their minds. Harmful habits such as drug addiction, alcoholism, tobacco use, as well as internet addiction and “ludomania” (gambling), which have become increasingly relevant in recent years, pose a serious threat to the intellectual and physical potential of the younger generation.
In the Republic of Uzbekistan, protecting young people’s rights and ensuring their healthy development are priority areas of state policy. In this regard, the activities of social work specialists are aimed not merely at prohibiting harmful habits but at identifying their root causes and applying scientifically grounded preventive mechanisms.
MAIN BODY
- SOCIAL FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF HARMFUL HABITS
In social work theory, harmful habits among young people are often viewed as a consequence of an imbalance between individuals and their social environment. Research indicates that the problem may originate from the following chain of factors:
– Microenvironment (Family): Emotional coldness within the family, insufficient parental supervision or excessive pressure, and social orphanhood.
– Mesosystem (Peers): “Group identification” — an adolescent’s imitation of harmful habits practiced by friends in order to gain acceptance and establish their identity within the group.
– Macroenvironment (Society): Socio-economic problems, the lack of systematic organization of leisure activities, and covert advertising of harmful substances.
- STAGES OF SOCIAL WORK PREVENTION
Social workers implement three main levels of strategies in combating harmful habits among young people.¹
Universal (Primary) Prevention
At this stage, social workers strive to create a healthy environment for all young people. The main focus is on strengthening their “social immunity.” This includes “Life Skills” training sessions conducted in schools and communities. The goal is to develop young people’s ability to say “No!” to harmful offers.
- Selective (Secondary) Prevention
At this stage, targeted work is carried out with “at-risk groups,” including children from troubled families and adolescents prone to delinquency. Here, the social worker performs a diagnostic role: identifying problems at an early stage and helping adolescents overcome depression or aggression.
- Indicated (Tertiary) Prevention and Rehabilitation
This is the stage of returning young people who have developed harmful habits to society (resocialization). It is the most complex process, requiring not only medical treatment but also social rehabilitation.¹ Social workers help clients make new friends, acquire professional skills, and restore relationships with their families.
- CASE MANAGEMENT AS AN EFFECTIVE METHOD
Today, the case management approach is widely used in the “Inson” Social Services Centers established in Uzbekistan. When working with young people affected by harmful habits, this method involves the following steps:
– Assessment: A comprehensive examination of the client’s problems, including medical, psychological, and social aspects.
– Planning: Developing an individual assistance plan.
– Coordination: Organizing comprehensive support in cooperation with psychologists, legal specialists, doctors, and educational institutions.
– Monitoring: Continuously monitoring the outcomes.
The following measures are proposed to strengthen the prevention of harmful habits among young people:
- Social Innovations: Expanding “Social Volunteering” centers in communities to engage young people in socially beneficial activities.²
- Cyber Social Work: Creating specialized online platforms to improve digital culture and media literacy among young people and prevent internet addiction.
- Strengthening Family–School Cooperation: Organizing “Social Pedagogy” courses for parents, since prevention begins within the family.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, social work in preventing harmful habits among young people is not merely about providing assistance; it is the art of changing an individual’s life. Through professional knowledge and human empathy, social workers help young people turn away from destructive paths and find a worthy place in society. Young people who choose a healthy lifestyle serve as the foundation of a strong and stable state.
Karimova Marjona Faxriddin is a second-Year Student of Social Work, Termez State University, Termez, Uzbekistan
Similar Posts by The Mt Kenya Times:
- Kenya’s 2027 election: Will political alliances and the fight over transparency decide who wins State House?
- 10 media personalities who never studied journalism
- Yvonne Okwara begins a new chapter at Shuga Global
- No ODM, no State House: Kaluma warns Ruto on 2027 coalition terms
- Raila Odinga Stadium: A political arena in Kenya’s defining election season
About the Author
