An Introduction to the Profession of Social Work: Becoming a Change Agent

Now available in paperback, Segal, Gerdes, and Steiner's 'workbook within a text' provides a balanced introduction to the social work profession and helps students to understand the role that the profession plays in the social welfare system. The authors' supportive tone and experiential approach inspires in readers a greater level of interest in, and enthusiasm towards, their future careers in social work. The book is designed to encourage both knowledge building and self-exploration--skills that are essential in developing good social work practice. Additional chapter material, including detailed personal stories written by practicing social workers ("From the Field" boxes), and "Point of View" boxes that provide multiple perspectives allow students to consider topics in greater depth and within a critical thinking context. This book provides a foundation of knowledge about social work practice and introduces students to the process of becoming change agents--the breadth of practice; what it means to be a social worker; and whether this field is a good fit.

Elizabeth A. Segal is a Professor in Arizona State University's School of Social Work. Along with this text, Segal has multiple publications, including an introduction to social work text and numerous journal articles. She is a co-founder and editor emeritus of the Journal of Poverty. Her areas of research and interest include inequality, social justice, and social empathy.

Karen Gerdes is Professor Emeritus at the Arizona State University School of Social Work. Her articles have appeared in such journals as the Journal of Social Work Education, The Journal of Human Behavior in the Social Environment, and Journal of Public Affairs Education. Dr. Gerdes's areas of interest include conation and the conative mind.

Sue Steiner is Professor at California State University, Chico School of Social Work. Her areas of interest include macro practice/community organizing, social welfare policy, and teaching effectiveness. She is a co-author of a book on self-care in social work and has published articles in numerous journals.