Social Work Policy Practice: Changing Our Community, Nation, and the World

by Jessica A. Ritter

The third edition of Social Work Policy Changing Our Community, Nation, and the World demystifies policymaking for social work students and demonstrates why policy practice is a critical dimension of social work. The text provides a comprehensive introduction to political advocacy and the political process to inspire social work students to enter the field with a mind for advocacy and social justice. The book is divided into three parts. In Part I, students learn a brief history of social welfare legislation in the United States and the role of social workers in policy development. Part II includes an overview of the levels and branches of government, in-depth descriptions of the policy change process, and various strategies advocates employ to enact change. Part III consists of real-world stories of advocates and advocacy organizations that have attempted to change policies on behalf of vulnerable populations in a wide range of social work fields such as healthcare, mental health, children and families, aging, immigration, and civil rights. This edition features updated policy changes throughout all chapters including fresh material on social movements, such as #MeToo and #BlackLivesMatter, and the impacts of the Trump presidency and the coronavirus pandemic on social welfare policy. Engaging and accessible, Social Work Policy Practice is an ideal resource for courses that introduce policymaking to undergraduate and graduate students of social work.

Genres: Social Work

358 pages, Paperback

First published September 11, 2012

Reviews

[Katelyn Hutchins · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is an insightful and empowering guide that highlights the critical role of policy in driving social change. It combines practical tools with inspiring case studies to show how social workers can influence community, national, and global policies. Its accessible writing and clear examples make complex topics understandable, making it a valuable resource for anyone passionate about creating change.

Reading this book was transformative for me. It not only deepened my understanding of how policies shape our society, but also reawakened my passion for politics. Through its compelling discussions, I realized the power of advocacy and how I could use my voice to address systemic issues and promote social justice. This newfound awareness reignited a burning desire to step into the political arena and work toward meaningful change, not just in my local community but on a larger scale.

“Social Work Policy Practice” is more than a textbook. It is a call to action. This book pushed me to envision how I could blend my interests in social work and politics to serve others and make a lasting impact. For anyone considering a career in advocacy, policy-making, or politics, I highly recommend this book as a starting point.

[Olivia · Rating 3 out of 5]

I mean... I finished it! (That's much more than I can say about most textbooks)