Media and Social Work

Citation

Westwood J (2012) Media and Social Work. In: Worsley A, Mann T, Olsen A & Mason-Whitehead E (eds.) Key Concepts in Social Work Practice. SAGE Key Concepts Series. London: SAGE, pp. 137-142. http://www.uk.sagepub.com/books/Book236922

Abstract
The media play an important role in constructing social work and social workers. These constructions are often linked to failings which have been highlighted in public inquiries. Social workers are multiply accountable and thus need to carefully align themselves in accordance with their professional regulatory body and their employers in matters concerning media reporting of cases. On certain issues the media are well situated to lead the public awareness campaigning element of social problems. Social work is challenged to engage with a wide range of evolving media.

Keywords
Social work and the media; social work professional conduct