sosialfaglig

sosialfaglig is a Norwegian term describing topics, methods, and professional practice within the social professions and applied social sciences. It refers to knowledge and activities aimed at promoting welfare, social inclusion, and support for individuals, families, and communities.

The term emphasizes a practice-oriented, applied perspective that integrates theoretical knowledge from sociology, psychology, criminology, pedagogy, and public health with professional ethics and casework. It is used to distinguish routine academic social science from professional practice in welfare services.

In Norway, social services, child welfare, addiction services, housing for vulnerable groups, and community development are areas where sosialfaglig work is carried out. Educational programs in social work and related fields often use the term to describe the applied, professional competences required.

It is related to, but distinct from, social science (sosialvitenskap) which is more research-oriented. "Sosialfaglig" can describe approaches, methods, or competences such as case management, empowerment, crisis intervention, collaboration with service users, and ethical reflection.

See also: sosialt arbeid (social work), barnevern (child welfare), sosialpedagogikk (social pedagogy), velferdstjenester (welfare services). The term is primarily used in Norwegian contexts; similar compounds may occur in neighboring languages with slightly different connotations.