Emerging Trends in Social Work: Navigating Challenges and Seizing Opportunities in Family and Child Welfare in Rural Kerala

Social work plays a vital role in addressing the multifaceted challenges faced by families and children in rural areas, particularly in regions like Kerala. Despite Kerala's high literacy rate and progressive social indicators, rural communities continue to grapple with issues such as childhood trauma, family conflicts, and socio-economic barriers. These challenges hinder children's holistic development and demand targeted interventions. This paper explores the emerging trends in social work within the subfield of family and child welfare, focusing on rural Kerala. By analysing five case studies, the paper highlights the innovative practices and strategies employed by social workers to overcome these challenges and seize emerging opportunities.