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Article
Integrating Macro–Micro Practice
School of Social Work Faculty Publications
  • Jason Ostrander, Sacred Heart University
  • Kate Kelly, Sacred Heart University
  • Patricia Carl-Stannard, Sacred Heart University
Document Type
Peer-Reviewed Article
Publication Date
1-1-2022
Disciplines
Abstract

Social work sets itself apart in the “helping professions” in recognizing the significance of its students and practitioners engaging with the theoretical knowledge and practice experiences sufficient for fluency across macro to micro settings. This practice integration assures comprehensive understanding of person-in-environment, from casework to complex systems work, and is raised to an ethical standard in the National Association of Social Work Code of Ethics and in the International Federation of Social Work Principles. Yet macro-oriented scholars have accused social work educators and professionals of abandoning their obligation to social justice and policy participation and of focusing their energy instead on micro practice. This literature is helpful in addressing how integrated practice can be achieved and informs the development of social workers who solidly embrace a commitment to macro knowledge and participation.

Comments

Published online: 22 December 2021.

DOI
10.1093/acrefore/9780199975839.013.1447
Citation Information

Ostrander, J., Kelly, K., & Carl-Stannard, P. (2022). Integrating macro–micro practice. Encyclopedia of Social Work. Doi: 10.1093/acrefore/9780199975839.013.1447