A comprehensive look at the profession of social work, including the rewarding aspects of social work practice as well as the struggles and problems faced by social workers as they do their jobs and uphold the values and ethics of the profession. The text uses case vignettes, boxed illustrations on issues of current importance to the profession, questions, and other pedagogical devices to bring the practice of social work to life for students. Controversial issues are also presented, such as whether the profession is moving away from social goals of political advocacy and reducing poverty, and toward an emphasis on psychotherapy and private practice. There also is discussion of the roles the CSWE and NASW play in the profession, so students are made aware of how these organizations shape social work education and practice. Women's issues and ethnic concerns are addressed in depth, as well as the history of the profession, practice methods, and fields of practice. The text also addresses issues faced by human service professionals and the interrelationships among social workers and other human service professionals. An Instructor's Manual and Test Bank, Computerized Test Bank, and an accompanying CNN Video for Social Work, provides a complete package of supplements.