A Critical Examination of Key Assumptions Underlying Diversity and Social Justice Courses in Social Work

Authors

Gita R. Mehrotra, Portland State UniversityFollow
Kimberly D. Hudson, New York University
Jen M. Self, University of Washington

Published In

Journal of Progressive Human Services

Document Type

Citation

Publication Date

5-2019

Abstract

This article examines underlying assumptions of Master of Social Work diversity and social justice courses as sites that embody social work’s dual projects of social justice and professionalization. Through a latent content analysis of course syllabi from 27 US-based social work programs, three key assumptions emerged: (1) social workers are members of dominant social groups; (2) cultural competency and anti-oppression are compatible frameworks; (3) self-awareness mitigates oppression. Findings reflect the reification of dominant culture groups in social work and promotion of individual-level skill development over structural change. Implications and recommendations for social work education and future research are discussed.

Description

Copyright © 2018 Informa UK Limited

Locate the Document

http://doi.org/10.1080/10428232.2018.1507590

DOI

10.1080/10428232.2018.1507590

Persistent Identifier

https://archives.pdx.edu/ds/psu/29106

Citation Details

Mehrotra, G. R., Hudson, K. D., & Self, J. M. (2019). A critical examination of key assumptions underlying diversity and social justice courses in social work. Journal of Progressive Human Services, 30(2), 127–147.