Becoming a Social Worker : A Guide for Students

This book explores the journey of becoming a social worker. It is based upon the experiences of social work students themselves and therefore provides a unique 'inside-out' perspective. By showing that personal, professional and political elements are interwoven in students' journeys, the author demonstrates that integrating these elements is vital to critical reflection and relationship-based social work. Content includes social work theory, therapeutic and risk-management interventions, emotional and ethical aspects of practice, political and cultural contexts of practice, and issues around supervision and assessment. The book also :" includes introductions, real-life case study exercises, points for reflection, diagrams and tables, further reading and resources" equips new students to reflect upon their own journeying and to learn more effectively from modules and placements" provides case study material on all aspects of placements such as meeting Key Roles and value requirements" covers career pathways for final year students, including guidance on dealing with job interviews and occupational stressThis is important reading across a range of modules and will be particularly valuable for new students and students on placement.

Caroline Humphrey is Senior Lecturer in Social Work at the University of Hull.