by Ian O'Connor
First published 2008
Social work has entered a new era where traditional approaches no longer suffice. Practitioners face mounting pressure to demonstrate results while serving increasingly complex client needs. The field demands workers who can think critically about their methods and reflect honestly on their impact. O'Connor examines how social workers can operate with clear purpose and strategic thinking to create meaningful change. The author argues for practitioners who take analytical approaches to problems affecting individuals, groups, and entire communities. Modern social work requires building bridges between different professional disciplines and occupational sectors. Workers must pursue both social justice goals and quality service delivery. The book focuses on developing practitioners who combine education with genuine commitment and social awareness. O'Connor emphasizes that effective social work cannot be passive or routine. Instead, it requires active engagement with complex social issues and willingness to challenge existing systems when they fail clients.
Genres: non-fiction, social-justice, social-work, academic
Vibes: analytical, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: active-engagement, challenge-existing-systems
286 pages · Paperback · Pearson Education Australia