Social Work Practice with Fathers: Engagement, Assessment, and Intervention

By Jennifer L. Bellamy, Brianna P. Lemmons, Qiana R. Cryer-Coupet, Jennifer A. Shadik
Social workers need to work with fathers across many service systems, but lack guidance on how to do so, and most engagement, assessment, and intervention work for family-serving systems is mother- and child-focused. Father-inclusive readings and resources are also limited. Drawing on the expertise of well-regarded research and practice experts in the field, this comprehensive book provides guidance to social work practitioners and researchers on how to engage, assess, and serve fathers. Instructors can use the text to include fathers in courses on the human behavior and social environment, family systems, clinical practice, diversity, or service systems.Social service systems, unfortunately, have often struggled to positively engage men as parents. Recent demographic trends indicate that fathers are providing more direct care to children and single-father households are one of the most rapidly growing demographic groups in the United States. Barriers to their successful engagement include biases and assumptions about men and fathers, a lack of father-friendly policies and practices in the field, limited training on how to work with fathers, and relatively limited father-inclusive social work research until recently. This book addresses these barriers. It is a guide to social workers in their efforts to better serve men as parents, and does so from an ecological and systems perspective. Multiple case examples and practical tools are provided, as well as specific content on major social service systems. Topics explored include:

Introducing “Social Work Practice with Fathers”

In a world where fathers are increasingly taking on caregiving responsibilities, it is vital for social workers to have the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively engage, assess, and serve fathers within various service systems. “Social Work Practice with Fathers: Engagement, Assessment, and Intervention” is an exceptional resource that fills the gap in literature by providing comprehensive guidance on working with fathers. Authored by a team of experts in the field, this book equips social work practitioners and researchers with invaluable insights, case examples, and practical tools to enhance their work with fathers.

A Review of “Social Work Practice with Fathers”

“Social Work Practice with Fathers” addresses the historical barriers that have hindered the successful engagement of fathers within social service systems. The authors shed light on biases, assumptions, and the lack of father-friendly policies and practices that have perpetuated the neglect of fathers’ needs. By adopting an ecological and systems perspective, the book offers a comprehensive approach that takes into account the many factors influencing fathers’ involvement in their children’s lives.

The strength of this book lies in its practicality. Social work practitioners and researchers will find a wealth of case examples and tools that can be readily applied in their work. The authors emphasize the importance of father engagement, providing strategies for effectively involving fathers in assessment and intervention processes. Additionally, they address the need for organizational “father-friendly” assessments, highlighting the importance of creating systems that recognize and support fathers in their caregiving roles.

Another key aspect of this book is its focus on interventions with fathers. The authors explore various evidence-based approaches and offer practical guidance on tailoring interventions to meet the unique needs of fathers. By providing insight into effective interventions, this book equips social work professionals with the tools needed to create positive change in the lives of fathers and their families.

“Social Work Practice with Fathers” also sets the stage for future theory, research, and practice with fathers. The authors highlight the importance of ongoing research and the need to expand the knowledge base on working with fathers. By encouraging further exploration and discussion in this field, the book contributes to the advancement of social work practice and the improvement of outcomes for fathers and their families.

Promoting the Ordering of “Social Work Practice with Fathers”

If you are a social work practitioner, researcher, or student, “Social Work Practice with Fathers” is an essential addition to your library. This groundbreaking resource will equip you with the necessary knowledge, insights, and tools to effectively engage, assess, and serve fathers within various service systems.

By ordering “Social Work Practice with Fathers,” you will gain access to a comprehensive guide authored by experts in the field. The practicality of this book ensures that you can immediately apply the strategies and interventions outlined within your practice or research.

Don’t miss the opportunity to be at the forefront of social work practice with fathers. Order your copy of “Social Work Practice with Fathers: Engagement, Assessment, and Intervention” today and join the movement towards creating father-inclusive service systems and achieving better outcomes for fathers and their families.