Routledge
206 pages
Social Work: The Basics is an insightful introduction to the often misrepresented world of social work. This accessible book presents a broad view of contemporary social work, exploring its roots and its possible future. It dispels myths surrounding social work, addresses media debates, and offers a balanced account of what social workers do. The book argues for a social work that is partisan in support of social justice. Questions covered include:
Drawing examples from the full range of social work practice, this book is valuable reading for all individuals interested in the field of social work. It will provide a helpful introduction for students considering a career in social work, those beginning social work courses, and other professionals whose work brings them into contact with social workers and who want to find out more about what social work is.
Acknowledgements Pioneer, investigator, agitator: a brief introduction 1. Reformist or radical: Social work's roots and different identities 2. Harridan or heroine: the public work of social work 3. Clients or service users: how and why people come into contact with social work 4. A profession or a career; a calling or a job: what social workers do and how social work is organisd 5. A discipline or a skill; an education or a training: how social workers learn their practice 6. Universal or specific: social work local and global 7. Past and future: the pioneers of today are the prophets of tomorrow (Attlee) Index of names Index of subjects
The Basics is a highly successful series of accessible guidebooks which provide an overview of the fundamental principles of a subject area in a jargon-free and undaunting format.
Intended for students approaching a subject for the first time, the books both introduce the essentials of a subject and provide an ideal springboard for further study. With over 50 titles spanning subjects from Artificial Intelligence to Women’s Studies, The Basics are an ideal starting point for students seeking to understand a subject area.
Each text comes with recommendations for further study and gradually introduces the complexities and nuances within a subject.