Like the first edition of Social Work and Social Welfare: An Invitation, this edition introduces students to the knowledge, skills, and values that are essential for working with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities in a variety of practice settings. With updated demographic, statistical, legislative, policy, and research information; sensitive discussions of contemporary ethical issues; and new first-person narratives from social workers in a variety of fields, the second edition provides an up-to-date profile of the world in which today's social workers practice. At www.routledgesw.com/intro, you will find a wealth of resources to help you create a dynamic, experiential introduction to social work for your students.

Table of Contents

1. A Glimpse into the World of Social Work 2. History of Social Work and Social Welfare 3. U.S. Poverty and the Implications for Social Work 4. The Social Work Environment 5. Diversity in Social Work Practice 6. Values and Ethics in Social Work Practice 7. Social Work Perspectives and Methods 8. Fields of Social Work Practice 9. Social Work Practice with Individuals and Families 10. Social Work Practice with Groups 11. Social Work Practice with Organizations and Communities and Policy Practice 12. The Social Work Profession

Author Biography

Marla Berg-Weger is a professor in the School of Social Work at Saint Louis University, Missouri, and serves as the Senior Associate Provost for Academic Affairs and Dean of the School for Professional Studies. Dr. Berg-Weger holds social work degrees at the bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels. Her social work practice experience includes public social welfare services, domestic violence services, mental health, and medical social work.