The Evolving Role of the Family in Social Services
The Role of Social Services in Family Vulnerability
Reporting and Intervention
When social vulnerability is detected, community services should inform the public body and the prosecutor (through the judge or police). Measures may include temporary or permanent removal from the family environment.
The Welfare System and Child Protection
The welfare system includes a network of specialized centers for child protection, such as protection centers for homeless persons, children’s homes, and shelters. These provide the most appropriate residential options for children in distress.
Special Attention for Children in Conflict with the Law
Children who have violated the law require special rehabilitation and social integration efforts in residential or semi-closed settings, as determined by judicial decisions.
The Family and Social Services
1. Social Changes Affecting the Family
Since the 1980s, European organizations and states have increased legislative and regulatory activity concerning the family due to:
- High public value placed on family.
- Intense social changes affecting family life, including:
- Declining birth rates.
- Growing aging population.
- Changes in family structure and dynamics (e.g., increased divorce rates, adolescent fertility, delayed emancipation).
- Increased female workforce participation.
- Shifting migration patterns.
- Emergence of pluralism.
These changes challenge the traditional assumptions of the welfare state, particularly the model of a stable nuclear family.
2. The Family as a Service Provider
Families play a crucial role in providing services to their members, including childcare, care for the ill and elderly, and support during challenging situations (e.g., drug abuse, illness, prolonged dependence of children).
2.1. The Central Role of Women
Historically, women have been primarily responsible for providing these essential services within the family. Research indicates that women dedicate significantly more time to household chores and family-related activities compared to men.
2.2. The Erosion of the Family’s Service Provider Role
Increasingly, services traditionally provided by the family are being outsourced. This trend highlights the difficulties faced by modern families in maintaining their historical role as primary caregivers and support providers.
The enactment of Law 39/99 (promoting work-life balance) aims to assist both women and men in balancing their work and family responsibilities.