Includes index.

An introduction to social problems, social welfare organizations, and the profession of social work -- A brief history of social work -- The social work process -- Professional social work practice -- The economically and socially disadvantaged -- Children in difficulty -- The education system in America and the role of school social workers -- Troubled families -- Problems in the workplace -- Problems of youth crime and violence -- The graying of America -- Serious emotional problems and mental illness -- Health problems, disabilities, death and dying, and access to care -- A society with serious substance abuse problems -- Immigration -- Natural disasters, terrorism, and random violence -- International social problems -- Medical, social, and emotional problems in the military -- The problems faced by diverse populations -- The role of social work and social welfare organizations in developing healthy community life -- The impact of religion and spirituality on the social and emotional lives of Americans -- Achieving social justice through organizational change -- Potential social problems in the 21st century and the future directions for social welfare and social work.