THE CLINICAL IN SOCIAL-WORK - A WORK-IN-PROGRESS

Emerging philosophical ideas are examined in relation to aspects of cl inical theory, and the implications these ideas have for clinical soci al work treatment. The importance of the shift in ideas toward social constructionism, meaning, and narration are discussed in light of the links they provide between individuals and social structures, and betw een the intrapsychic and the interpersonal. A parallel shift toward a more person-oriented, dialogic approach to clinical social work practi ce is proposed as a logical outgrowth of these changes in conceptual f ramework.