Prior to 2020, the field of social work was limited in its adoption of digital practice. However, with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, traditional, in-person service delivery was dramatically interrupted. Previously at a crossroads, the field is now experiencing a seemingly unstoppable shift toward modern technology-mediated forms of delivery. <P>Social Work in an Online World addresses this shift and charts the changing landscape from analog to digital practice in varied client systems, system needs, and system levels (micro, mezzo, and macro). Going beyond online mental health service, which is largely individually focused and synchronously delivered, the authors offer a map of digital social work practice that can be expanded to include support, identity, community action, education, and psychoeducation.
Contributors provide a comprehensive tour of digital social work practice that covers individual, group, and macro work in a variety of settings using accessible theory and real-world examples that provide valuable insights and reflections about the strengths and limitations of their approaches. In addition, the book places special emphasis on digital equity and data justice, highlighting the core social work value of social justice.
Social Work in an Online World demonstrates that the shift to hybrid and digital practice is moving forward, largely positively, for social workers and for those they seek to serve. Readers wishing to adopt digital practices will be inspired by this groundbreaking guide to apply these standards in their own practice and applications.