Reflecting the idea that social justice is a primary mission of the social work profession, this text provides a thorough grounding in policy analysis-with extensive coverage of policy practice and a unique emphasis on the broad issues and human dilemmas inherent in the pursuit of social justice. The book introduces several philosophical perspectives on what constitutes social justice, and identifies values and assumptions reflected in contemporary policy debates. FOUNDATIONS OF SOCIAL POLICY, Fifth Edition, part of the BROOKS/COLE EMPOWERMENT SERIES, integrates the core competencies and practice behaviors outlined in the 2008 Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards (EPAS) set by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). Numerous updates, on topics ranging from women in combat and elder abuse to the DOMA decision and movements against public employee unions, showcase the profound impact of current events on policy issues and social justice in the United States and internationally.
Author Biography
A native of California, Amanda S. Barusch completed her B.A. in Psychology at Reed College and her M.S.W. and Ph.D. in Social Welfare at the University of California, Berkeley. Her primary research and teaching interests are in the fields of social policy and aging. She has investigated topics ranging from interpersonal relations to international policy comparisons. She has published articles in leading North American journals and is the author or coauthor of seven books. Dr. Barusch joined the faculty at the University of Utah College of Social Work in 1985. She has served as Associate Dean for Research and Doctoral Studies (2003-2007) and Director of the Social Research Institute (1995-1998); and is now Associate Dean for Research. She serves as Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Gerontological Social Work and is on the editorial board of the Journal of Poverty. She is a fellow in the Gerontological Society of America. Since June of 2007 she has also held an appointment as Professor of Gerontology at the University of Otago in Dunedin, New Zealand, where she continues to serve on a part-time basis.
