case-work

noun

1. the work of investigation, advice, supervision, etc., by social workers or the like, in cases handled by them.
2. Sociology. a close study of psychological and sociological factors in the history of an individual or family in unfavorable circumstances, with a view to improving personal and family conditions.

noun

1. social work based on close study of the personal histories and circumstances of individuals and families

n.

1896, from case (n.1) in the clinical sense work (n.). Related: Case-worker (1909).