Social Work Policy Practice: Changing Our Community, Nation, and the World

The second edition of Social Work Policy Practice: Changing Our Community, Nation, and the World demystifies policymaking for social work students and demonstrates why policy practice is a critical dimension of social work. The text provides a comprehensive introduction to political advocacy, the political process, and how laws are enacted to inspire social work students to enter the field with a mind for political advocacy and social justice.

The book is divided into three parts. In Part I, students learn a brief history of social welfare legislation in the United States and the role of social workers in policy development. Part II provides concrete information on how policies become law. It includes an overview of the levels and branches of government, in-depth descriptions of the policy change process, and various strategies advocates employ to enact change. Part III consists of real-world stories of advocates and advocacy organizations that have attempted to change policies on behalf of vulnerable populations.

This edition includes up-to-date information regarding policy issues in child welfare, aging, healthcare, mental health, poverty and income equality, rights for racial minorities, and immigration. New material addresses policy issues pertaining to gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, and the #MeToo and #BlackLivesMatter social movements.

Engaging and accessible, Social Work Policy Practice is an ideal resource for courses that introduce policymaking to students of social work.

Jessica A. Ritter is a professor of social work at Metropolitan State University in Denver, where she teaches undergraduate- and graduate-level social work courses. Dr. Ritter earned her doctoral degree in social work and master’s degree in social work with a concentration in administration and planning from the University of Texas at Austin. As a practicing social worker, she is committed to improving and protecting children’s rights in the United States and around the world. Dr. Ritter has authored and coauthored numerous books, book chapters, and articles within the field.