Structural and Postmodern Social Work Theories

Critical social work theory does not hold one single definition; rather it refers to an expansive range of theories that a share similar orientation. Critical social work is committed to working with and for oppressed populations to achieve social transformation. Critical social work recognizes that large scale social processes – namely those associated with class, race and gender – fundamentally contribute to the personal and social issues social workers encounter in practice (Healy, 2001). The core mission of critical social work is to promote social justice through social work practice and policy making. Critical social work draws on structural and postmodern approaches. Similarities and differences exist between these approaches in terms of purpose, principles of practice, underlying assumptions and values and the relationship between the social worker and service user. Both of these approaches possess strengths and limitations – which will be discussed in this essay – and have contributed to the development of critical practices in social work.

Structural and postmodern theories differ in many respects. However, there are also commonalities between the two. Both stand against domination and oppression, with alternative visions of society. Structural critical theory seeks a society based on socialist or collectivist principles, and although post-modernism allows for many alternative visions only those concerned with human liberation are legitimate, given its emancipatory intent (Mullaly, 1997).

The purpose of structural social work is to move away from traditional approaches to social work that were based upon a medical and disease model that places people in a passive position, with the focus of attention on the individual rather than their situation (Rossiter, 1996, p.24). This approach provides a critical framework for analysis of social work knowledge and practice. It is based on an analysis of how economic, social, political and legislative contexts

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