This article examines the dynamic between expressions of care--that is, simple acts of kindness and consideration that make up friendly relations--and professional expertise. During the 20th century, social work based its expertise on a solid scientific foundation. Within the embrace of scientific expertise, expressions of care are assigned the…

Presents a theoretical framework for understanding the interpersonal interactions of social workers in their professional capacity. The major elements are a typology of others with whom professionals interact, the qualities of interpersonal interactions, the professional's needs, and the resources exchanged. (Author/JAC)

Critiques problem-focused perspective, different diagnostic approaches, and objectivity-subjectivity dilemma as they apply to respecting client uniqueness. Social work practice is cast within reflective model advanced by Schon. Argues that this approach bolsters social work practitioner's ability to incorporate uniqueness in work with clients by…

Suggests that strategies and skills commonly used in political processes would help social workers balance the multiplicity of clients' problems. Reviews some deficiencies in current problem-solving theory and discusses a conceptual framework for a political approach. (Author/JAC)

Reviews elements of the respondent, operant, and modeling theories and various principles of the exchange theory that can be combined to facilitate changes in client behavior. Proposes the behavioral exchange model as a framework to help social workers conceptualize clinical phenomena and thus gain power to influence them. (Author/JAC)