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22 Unit 1 Learning About Human Services
Job Outlook for Human Services
The job outlook for human services careers is bright. Employment
of human services workers is expected to grow much faster than the
average for most occupations in the coming decades. Later in this text,
you will learn more about future trends and projected job growth
for various careers within each of the pathways in the fi eld of human
services.
People need the “human touch,” especially as technology becomes
more and more a part of our lives (Figure 1.10). People will always have
needs. Human services workers are the ones to provide these resources.
As the population grows, so does the need for human services workers.
Although basic human needs remain the same, careers in human
services may ebb and fl ow in relation to what is happening in the overall
economy. For example, in times of economic hardship, emphasis is
placed on basic needs of providing food and housing resources. In times
of economic plenty, more emphasis is placed on personal exploration.
In good times and in bad times, however, people need help navigating
their interpersonal relationships. Likewise, the need for child care
services continues to grow, as both numbers and expectations for
preschool education increases.
Paul Vasarhelyi/Shutterstock.com
Figure 1.10 As advancements in technology continue to occur, many people, especially
older adults, need help in learning how to use technological devices and programs. Are
there any classes available in your community to teach older adults how to use the
computer?