ABSTRACT
This chapter highlights some basic arguments about the nature of social assessment. It proposes various interconnected methodological principles on which to ground the theory and practice of social assessment - a methodological framework which will be described as critical auto/biography (CA/B). The chapter outlines general practical and professional implications in relation to specific user and social groups, where theoretically informed practice methods and procedures. It also discusses the first principle being proposed, which is concerned with methodology and oppression. Published government guides to assessment concern both health and welfare services, but have not employed a theoretical framework which could evaluate and integrate the various professions, disciplines and perspectives which are involved. The chapter aims to contribute to that basis. The unifying role of the methodology in relation to the procedures and processes of assessment has implications in relation to the comprehensiveness of assessments.
