Description
Book SynopsisThis revised second edition of 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.
Arguing for a social work that is partisan in support of social justice, questions covered include:
- How did social work arise?
- How and why do people come into contact with social workers?
- What are the true aims of social work to help or to control?
- What is the relationship between social work and social policy?
- How and why do people become social workers?
- What's it like to be a social worker?
- Can social work cross borders?
Drawing examples from the full range of social work practice, this book is valuable reading for all individ
Trade Review
In Social Work – The Basics, Mark Doel explores social work from historical, local, and global perspectives, with a keen eye to political context, cultural diversity, and the possibilities for change. In this fascinating second edition, social workers portray their life’s work as objects. Social work is revealed as a profession, a calling, and a career.
Lorrie Greenhouse Gardella, Professor of Social Work, Southern Connecticut State University, USA
The international dimension of social work is a feature of this book with examples drawn from around the world. This second edition sets social work in a broad political landscape with inclusive and diverse illustrations that engage all readers.
Donna Guy, Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology, Aotearoa/NZ
Mark Doel is recognised as a key figure in social work education with his ability to blend theory and practice so effectively. This important text illustrates nicely how well deserved that reputation is. Social work is a highly demanding but rewarding profession. This book serves an important purpose in making sure that newcomers to the profession get off to a good start in terms of rising to the challenges and appreciating the rewards.
Neil Thompson, visiting professor at the Open University, UK
Table of Contents0.Pioneer, Investigator, Agitator: An Introduction to the Second Edition. 1.Reformist or Radical: Social Work’s Roots and Different Identities. 2.Saint or Sinner: The Public Face of Social Work. 3.Client, Service User or Expert by Experience: 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 Organised. 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.Utopia or Dystopia: ‘The Pioneers of Today are the Prophets of Tomorrow’ (Attlee).
