ABSTRACT
This chapter explores how generic principles apply across the diversity of clients social work serves, and the context within which social workers work. It begins with a discussion of the small group literature that informs understanding about issues of diversity in groups. The chapter describes Group work practice derived from this literature from the authors’ professional experiences. It deals with a discussion of future issues that should be addressed as social workers strive toward a practice that is fully oriented to issues of diversity. The chapter shows that the strength in numbers phenomenon, in terms of the goals of empowering group members, strengthening identities, and resolving intergroup conflicts. Small group theory has the potential to contribute greatly to social work conducted with people who experience social oppression because of their gender, ethnicity, or other characteristics. Each of the compositions will present opportunities and challenges with regard to promoting diversity and social justice through social group work practice.
