The dynamic vocabulary of social work, like the profession itself, continues to grow and become more complex. Since the first edition of The Social Work Dictionary in 1987, this essential reference work has been recognized as the definitive lexicon of social work. Now in its fifth edition, The Social Work Dictionary captures more than 9,000 terms, cataloging and cross-referencing the nomenclature, concepts, organizations, historical figures, and values that define the profession. A special historical section represents a chronology of the significant developments in the United States and the world toward social welfare policies, practices, and the betterment of humanity. Used extensively in schools of social work, social service agency libraries, and in social work offices worldwide, The Social Work Dictionary, 5th Edition is a staple in professional libraries. It is unequaled as a study tool for preparing for licensing and certification exams. Every social worker-from professor to student, from novice to experienced professional -should own this unparalleled resource for understanding the language of social work and related disciplines! Special Features * Terms and definitions evaluated and edited by an expert editorial review board for accuracy and clarity. * Terms that social workers have adopted for use from sociology, anthropology, medicine, law, psychology, and economics. * Definitions of symptoms and diagnostic labels for various forms of mental disorders as they are understood by social workers, psychiatrists, psychologists, and other mental health professionals.