Reconceptualizing social work in times of crisis: An examination of the cases of Greece, Spain and Portugal. (July 2014)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Ioakimidis, Vasilios; Santos, Clara Cruz; Herrero, Ines Martinez
• Other Names: Tassé Abye guest-editor.
• Is Part Of: International social work. Volume 57:Number 4(2014:Jul.)
• Page Start: 285
• Page End: 300
• Publication Date: 2014-07
• Subjects: Crisis -- Greece -- Portugal -- neoliberalism -- radical social work -- reconceptualization -- social justice -- Spain; Social service -- Periodicals; Social problems -- Periodicals; Globalization -- Social aspects -- Periodicals; Community development -- Periodicals; 361
• DOI: 10.1177/0020872814524967
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0020-8728

Abstract

What started as a peripheral banking crisis in 2008 within five years triggered the deepest recession Europe has seen in decades, escalating to manifold socio-political crises. Under these circumstances, many social workers find themselves in a situation of extreme pressure and insecurity. Traditional theories and orthodox practices are now challenged by frontline social workers. This article explores such a 'reconceptualization' process, evaluating recent developments and changes in Spanish, Portuguese and Greek social work. We argue that the current crisis has generated a profound (re)politicization of social workers which leads to the redefinition of the core values and principles of social work.