ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on forensic social work and the importance of social work within the correctional system. It outlines the system overcrowding, the reasons social work input is important to this demographic, the relevant theories and a case study demonstrating the theories applied. Forensic social work is challenging to define, since it varies greatly by role within the field. Forensic social work is engaging a cohort of people who either do not have the desire to live within the 'social norms' of society or do not have the skills to live in the community without displaying illegal behaviour; or are now being faced with a life they did not expect. Social work theories and approaches are taught in university and may never be reflected upon again in one's practice. Strengths-based approach is a vital theory to be acknowledged and employed in forensic social work.
