MILWAUKEE, Jan. 8 (AScribe Newswire) -- The practice of social work is examined from a new and intriguing perspective in a series of articles contained in the latest issue of Families in Society (http://www.familiesinsociety.org/), a scholarly journal for social services and health professionals.
The journal, published by the Alliance for Children and Families spotlights and investigates the question from several diverse perspectives as represented by a range of leading social work researchers. While the reported evidence leans toward social work as an art, a number of elements of the professional support definition of the work as a science as well.
"In practice, social work reflects two dimensions of a coherent and integrated whole," notes Peter Goldberg, president and CEO of the Alliance for Children and Families. "The artistry of intuition does not negate the rigors of scientific thinking or the role of theory."
Other featured studies included in Families in Society Volume 88-4 address treatment complications arising from substance abuse among the developmentally disabled, and data showing that victims of sexual abuse are more likely to be revictimized later in their lives, seeking to understand why this is the case and how best to address the problem.
Key factors in the debate
Through the four targeted articles, research and commentary outlines how social work reflects characteristics of both science and art:
- The drive to universalize and reduce, to fit the human condition within an explanatory framework = science; while the drive to particularize and individualize, to find meaning in the peculiar, the unique, the fugitive aspects of the human condition = art.
- Social work practice demands a background of theoretical and technical knowledge, the acquisition of which requires discipline and ongoing commitment = science.
- When technical proficiency (science) allows creativity and intuition to rise to the surface, the practitioner is freed to focus on more personal means of developing understanding (art) - facilitating human relationships to support and increase potential, enhance choice, and contribute to empowerment of individuals and groups = art.
- Historical trends in the profession to create relationships grounded on a strong empirical foundation = science - rather than simply evaluating one technique or model versus another (science), social workers must balance unique characteristics of the client, the practitioner, and the collaboration (art).
- Exploring elements and nuances enhances practice by providing valuable insights that lie beyond technique = art.
Dr. William Powell, Families in Society editor, adds, "Acknowledging the scientific dimension should not be seen as an imposition on the practitioner's style but as an opportunity to both legitimize and enhance improvisation."
As a thoroughly researched and peer-reviewed journal, Families in Society presents a balanced view of this key subject. The publication - available in print, CD-ROM, and online - represents the largest single edition of the journal ever produced in its 88 years of publication.
Founded in 1920, Families in Society is the oldest social work journal in North America and continues to be an important source of expert information for academics as well as practitioners in social work. The Alliance for Children and Families provides an in-house editorial and support staff which publishes the quarterly print journal, comprehensive Web site, and online continuing education program for the social services community.
The Alliance for Children and Families is the nation's largest association of private, nonprofit human service agencies and organizations. Its mission is to build the capacity of its members to serve and advocate for children, families and communities. Its members annually serve more than 3.4 million people with a wide array of programs and services. The Alliance is headquartered in Milwaukee. For more information, visit http://www.alliance1.org .
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CONTACT: Jan Thomas, Alliance for Children and Families, Communications, jthomas@alliance1.org, 414-359-1040 x. 3612
NOTE TO EDITORS: PDF files of the various articles contained in Families in Society volume 88-4 are available to the media by contacting jthomas@alliance1.org.
Media Contact: See above.
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