Urban Social Work: An Introduction to Policy and Practice in the Cities introduces students to the profession of social work as it is practiced in the cities.

The book utilizes a social systems perspective and helps students to recognize the linkages between social welfare policy and social work practice within the context of urban social problems. Systems theory is important because it stresses direct practice, the role of the agency and social action. The text includes chapters on the cities and the urban origins of social work; the functions and structure of social work organizations; social work values and ethics; social work skills and diversity in social work.

Already class-tested, this comprehensive book can be used in an introductory social work course or as a supplementary text for practice and policy courses at the BSW or MSW level.