A Community Social Work Paradigm: Thoughts and Reflections.

Area of Science:

• Social Work
• Community Psychology
• Sociology

Background:

• Community social work (CSW) encompasses diverse intervention models.
• A gap exists in understanding the theoretical and philosophical origins of CSW.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the philosophical and theoretical roots of CSW.
• To conceptualize these bases as a paradigm with ontological, epistemological, axiological, and methodological aspects.
• To bridge the literature gap on CSW's theoretical origins.

Main Methods:

• Literature review to identify philosophical and theoretical underpinnings.
• Conceptualization of a CSW paradigm based on ecological theory, critical theory, and community psychology.
• Analysis of the paradigm's ontological, epistemological, axiological, and methodological dimensions.

Main Results:

• The proposed CSW paradigm integrates ecological theory, critical theory, and community psychology.
• Its epistemology emphasizes community members' autonomy and valid knowledge.
• Participation is identified as the core value, driving other axiological principles.

Conclusions:

• The conceptualized CSW paradigm offers a robust theoretical foundation for community interventions.
• It aids in refining intervention goals and serves as a pedagogical tool.
• The paradigm can foster professional identity among community social workers.