ABSTRACT
In previous chapters the sequencing of arguments and the acceptance or non-acceptance of explanations contained in probation officers’ reports was examined with reference to the social construction of black and white crime. This chapter is concerned with the elements of such explanations: the combination of words into the discourse that frames social-work knowledge and authority, confirming differential ‘client’ status on black people. Rojek and Collins have described the importance of the concept of discourse in the following way:
In working with people social workers use words and characteristic forms of impression management. These forms and words correspond to specialised systems of knowledge regarding the subjects and object of social work. They refer to a specific discourse, a specific way of organising meaning and establishing authority. Learning to be a social worker may be in part, a matter of being seen as competent in the received professional language and knowledge.
