ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the concept of family–its definition, meaning, and place within the contemporary social context–and the process of engagement and assessment with families from a biopsychosocial-spiritual perspective. It also looks at theoretical perspectives for working with traditional and contemporary family structures as well as the dynamics, skills, and tools for working with a range of families. The chapter guides one through strategies for understanding the impact family issues can have on them and their clients. It focuses on the concepts most relevant to generalist social work practice with families. The chapter mentions a range of contemporary family structures about which social workers must have knowledge and skills for competent practice. It discusses the experiences of both traditional and nontraditional families. The chapter explains the social work engagement, assessment, planning, intervention, termination, evaluation, and follow-up process within a conceptual framework that encompasses both the context of those persons with the family.
