Comprehensive and modern, this new edition of Charles Zastrow's Introduction to Social Work and Social Welfare, Seventh Edition is in step with the current state of social work in contemporary society. The issues that affect people in need are presented in the context of the values, ethics, and knowledge base of today's professional social worker. The book's up-to-date coverage and its social problems approach, along with Zastrow's easy-reading style, make it an enduring favorite in preparing students for the rewards and the challenges of the real world of social work.The Seventh Edition has been completely updated, and now features international perspectives as well as many new discussions of key trends in the field. Just some of the topics Zastrow covers include: Generalist Practice, Spirituality, The strengths perspective, Managed care, Child molestation, rape, and incest, Diversity, The criminal justice system, populations at risk, Ethnic-sensitive social work practice, Proposed welfare alternatives, Institutional racism, Depression in the Elderly, and The population crisis and the future.Using a social problems approach, the book presents useful tools for social work intervention that readers can use in helping to facilitate positive changes. As students come face to face with the harsh realities of today's social problems, they become familiar with the social services and programs they'll encounter in helping people overcome their troubles. As they learn more about the shortcomings and benefits of the social services, they begin to think critically about new ways to solve problems.