Towards a conceptual model of community social work

Summary: This paper examines different ways of conceptualizing community social work. Firstly it looks at the conceptualization by areas of work and critically reviews the three-model formulations, and then it analyses the various dichotomous formulation found in the literature. The conclusion reached is that a dichotomous formulation is both conceptually and practically preferable, and the dimension of directive/non-directive type of professional intervention is the most comprehensive continuum. In conclusion, the paper attempts to show how dichotomous dimensions can be used to research or evaluate community work projects and interventions.