Schools and Social Work

Teachers and social workers are often concerned about the same children from the same families, yet communication between them breaks down and misunderstandings occur. First published in 1978, Schools and Social Work examines the reasons for these misunderstandings and considers some of the boundary issues between education and social work. The functions of both schools and social work agencies demonstrably overlap, although the value assumptions on which they are based often differ and at times conflict. Schools and Social Work explores the task of education and social work in relation to schoolchildren and their families and describes the family life cycle with reference to particularly crucial periods of stress when family functioning might become impaired. The question of social breakdown is discussed, and its three stages—primary, secondary, and tertiary—are described in relation to individuals, families, and schools. The book deals with issues in connection with the overlap between schools and social work, particularly those areas where there seems to be confusion between the two systems. The author describes some of the ways of intervening to prevent and remedy social breakdown, and specifically the role and function of the education welfare service. Finally, she outlines some of the alternatives in education and social work and points to some possible strategies for the future.