Military Social Work Around the Globe

The first book to focus on the scope of social work practice within military settings from an international perspective, addressing a significant gap in the literature. It offers a comprehensive global understanding of common military social work practices with active-duty military service members and their families, as well as the forms of practice and approaches that are unique or potentially transferable across nations. Contributions from experts in 25 countries highlight similarities and differences in practice settings, practice orientation, and ethical dilemmas. The book is a valuable resource for social work programs, instructors, and students, as well as occupational social work and international social work courses.

Format: Hardback
Length: 283 pages
Publication date: 20 October 2022
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

This groundbreaking book is the first to delve into the comprehensive scope of social work practice within military settings from an international perspective, thus addressing a significant gap in the literature. Given the critical support needs of military personnel and their families worldwide, and the expanding role of social work in responding to these needs, this book offers a comprehensive global understanding of the common military social work (MilSW) practices with active duty military service members and their families, as well as the forms of practice and approaches that are unique or potentially transferable across nations.

Based on a systematic inquiry conducted by the Editors, it is evident that at least 25 countries have social workers actively engaged in military service within their respective countries, whether in a civilian or uniformed capacity, or both. This book encompasses contributions from esteemed experts from Australia, Canada, Denmark, Finland, Ireland, Israel, the Netherlands, New Zealand, South Africa, the UK, and the USA, who provide insights into various aspects of the MilSW role within their respective countries and the research that underpins their practices. The MilSW similarities and differences among these countries are highlighted, encompassing developmental milestones, practice settings, practice orientations and approaches, ethical dilemmas, military-to-veteran transition support, and past and current challenges.

Furthermore, experts from countries that do not yet have MilSW but are interested in developing it (Japan, Ukraine) or are in the process of establishing this area of practice (Slovakia) also contribute chapters that discuss these developments and the evidence base that supports this direction.

Military Social Work Around the Globe is a valuable resource for social work programs and an essential reading for instructors, scholars, and practitioners alike. It sheds light on the diverse practices and experiences of military social work across nations, contributing to a better understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by military service members, their families, and the broader society. By exploring the global landscape of MilSW, this book fosters a deeper appreciation for the role of social work in supporting and empowering individuals and communities in military contexts.

Weight: 641g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031144813
Edition number: 1st ed. 2023