This text is a "classic" in the introductory market in social work. It presents both a historical perspective on the development of social work and current social work practice paradigms. It provides a broad overview of the field and profession of social work, and stresses the link between professional education and practice. Special consideration is given to such problems as welfare reform, gangs, drugs, battered women and children, AIDS, and depression in the elderly. The introductory theoretical base of the text highlights the trend toward the generalist perspective and model of practice.