Social Work and Social Justice

Through compelling examples, case studies, and exercises, Social Work Practice and Social Justice goes beyond a discussion of abstract social justice concepts and goals by focusing on how concepts can be used as guides for socially just practice at the interpersonal, organizational, community, and societal levels.

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Social Work and Social Justice emphasizes the importance of social justice work, vividly illustrates the complexity of this work, and discusses how social workers can negotiate the practical and ethical challenges involved. Unlike many books on the subject, it integrates a diverse array of approaches to social justice, thereby promoting critical thinking and underscoring the value of utilizing various perspectives in one's practice. Distinguishing features of this book include: emphasis on the complementary nature of socially just goals and processes; well-developed case examples; multi-disciplinary, multi-cultural, and international perspectives; a clear exposition of principles and skills of socially just practice; and the use of diverse cultural materials from different media to illustrate the concepts presented. This text is largely based on the authors' extensive teaching and practice experience in a wide variety of fields -- both in the U.S. and internationally -- and on their research on such varied topics as welfare reform, mental health, social work practice theory, social work values and ethics, and the history and philosophy of social welfare and social work. Social Work and Social Justice is an essential resource for undergraduate and graduate students/faculty, as well as social work/human services practictioners.