ABSTRACT
This chapter examines theoretical assumptions related to the concept of power derived from general systems theory, ecological theory, and feminist theory. It explores human behavior power concepts that discuss the client-social worker relationship as a microcosm of societal power issues and relates social work practice to traditional power structures both within the profession and society. The chapter discusses ways that social workers can become more effective in recognizing and dealing with their own biases rooted in power statuses and offers strategies for bringing parity to the helping relationship. Feminist theory also has addressed social work activities that are centered around social reform and the existing relationships of patriarchal power and authority. According to one ecological theorist, the social worker, who is an expert who diagnoses, teaches, and treats, must be cautioned, particularly in cross-cultural social work, not to use the helping role to satisfy his or her own needs for power.
