The Practice of Generalist Social Work (2nd Edition)

Book Details:

• Author: Julie Birkenmaier

• Edition: Second

• Publisher: Routledge

• Language: English

• ISBN: 9780415873369

• Pages: 544

• Cover: Paperback

• Dimensions: 9.2 x 7.3 x 1.1 inches

About the Book

The Practice of Generalist Social Work (Second Edition) by Julie Birkenmaier presents an integrative, accessible, and comprehensive approach to generalist social work practice. Tailored for a one-semester course but enriched with enough content for a two- or three-semester sequence, this book bridges theoretical frameworks like social justice, human rights, and critical social construction with real-world application.

The book is centered around three unique, in-depth case studies created exclusively for this series, allowing students to "learn by doing" and engage with realistic, multifaceted practice scenarios. It is further enhanced with companion readings and a robust website (www.routledgesw.com), featuring application exercises, interactive tools, and practice simulations.

This edition is widely praised for its seamless coverage of micro, mezzo, and macro practice, making it a foundational resource for undergraduate social work programs. The inclusion of theory-driven, diversity-aware, and skill-based content ensures students develop competencies essential for professional social work.

What reviewers say:

“A dream text and website for anyone seeking to understand complex human problems engendered by individual inadequacies, structural inequities, and globalization.” — Olatunde A. Olusesi, New York University
“The text offers a wealth of application tools and interactive case studies, making it a perfect resource for the entire practice sequence.” — Chrys C. Ramirez Barranti, California State University, Sacramento

About the Authors:
Julie Birkenmaier is Associate Professor of Social Work at Saint Louis University, with expertise in community development and financial capability. Co-author Marla Berg-Weger, also from Saint Louis University, brings her extensive practice background in gerontological and medical social work. Their collaborative effort is further enriched by Marty Dewees, whose work emphasizes human rights and strengths-based perspectives.