Abstract
Introduction: This study explores the utilization modern
and emerging technologies in social work as efficacious interventions for
traditionally oppressed, marginalized, and isolated populations.
Methods: This
study uses a dialogic approach to explore literature on traditional
interventions, modern technologies, and emerging technologies. The discussion centers around two research
questions: What are
the current emerging technologies? How
can current emerging technologies differ in their approaches to address the previously
perceived lack of modern technologies’ necessary social tools and contexts to
act as suitable alternatives to traditional social exchanges and
interactions?
Findings &
Implications: The
solutions that emerging technologies offer far outweigh the challenges
surrounding access, cost, and fear. For social workers, the potential to use
emerging technologies to correct social injustices are boundless. The
implications for emerging technologies are broad and include reducing barriers
to mental health services, providing a more intuitive and realistic experience,
and mitigating the impact of disabling conditions. For many Americans, emerging
technologies will come to act as efficacious interventions for a myriad of
issues. Future research
in social work should focus on innovative technological interventions that can
mitigate serious disabling conditions, and the plethora of social issues where
emerging technologies can intersect and intercede social injustices.