CHAPTER 1The Policy-Based

ProfessionThe Policy-Based Profession

An Introduction to Social Welfare Policy Analysis

for Social WorkersFifth Edition

Philip R. Popple & Leslie LeighningerSlides by Heather Kanenberg, University of Houston, Clear Lake

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The Target of Social Work: Individuals & Society

• The focus of social work is upon not just the individual and their immediate needs

• Our work must include a critical analysis of the individuals environment in an attempt to understand the variables that play a role in her/his problems

The Social Function of Social Work

• A new understanding of the concept of ‘Dependency’; contradicting stereotypical understandings of the term

• Individual and Institutional role failure

• Social work is the tool or method that is most frequently used to address dependency

The Dual Targets of Social Work

• Social Work Profession is responsible for assisting those experiencing difficulty with individual role responsibilities (Micropractice)

• Also expected to address the failure of institutions that results in individual suffering (Macropractice)

The Dominance of Micropractice

• Richmond and Lee emphasis on the direct practice done with clients as a method for exacting change

• Individualistic society, relatively obvious targets for change, and access all contribute to direct practice being the dominant method of social work

Social Work’s Search for Professional Legitimacy

• Flexner and his position on Social Work as a profession

• Emphasis during the inception of our work on a traditional ‘medical model’ of practice

• Attempt to develop uniqueness and relevance among other professions

All translated to an emphasis on direct practice…but, how has this changed?

Social Work: The Policy Based Profession

Time and societal change has resulted in:

• Social work occurring in organizational settings

• Knowledge about educationally communicable techniques

• Reduced autonomy among all professions

Thus, a Flexners position is no longer feasible or realistic

The Relationship between Policy & Practice

• Several roles and tasks of professional social workers are policy practice activities

• Policy dictates how we work, who we serve, what we can be paid…And what else?

• How does our practice affect Policy? Name some ways…