Empowerment Series: Understanding Generalist Practice

Although much of the book relates to micro-level skills and practice that form the basis for working with groups, organizations, and communities (e.g., relationship-building, interviewing, and problem-solving), the authors also emphasize how micro, mezzo, and macro skills can be interlinked -- a key idea in most courses.

The Generalist Intervention Model provides a rational and coherent step-by-step approach for implementing planned change. As a unifying framework, the model helps students make sense of the breadth and depth of the social work profession.

"Highlights" throughout every chapter summarize practical information related to the chapter content, or present mini-cases and examples illustrating a topic under discussion. For instance, "Highlights" in Chapter 7 cover physical indicators of physical abuse, major concepts in crisis intervention, helping people cope with grief and loss, managed care and its effect on practice, and other topics. "Highlights" in Chapter 9 include case examples illustrating conflict between verbal and nonverbal communication, life within a blended family, and communication problems within a marriage.

Ethics coverage is incorporated throughout the book. Chapter 11, "Values, Ethics, and the Resolution of Ethical Dilemmas," exposes students to many of the common ethical challenges that professional social workers may encounter throughout their careers.