Interdisciplinary Education and Implications for Social Work Practice

Abstract

Social workers practice with many partner professions. Interdisciplinary practice requires ability to practice one's own profession, and ability to link into the work of others. This requires knowledge and skill that differentiates one's work from that of others within a single frame of reference. Clients gain from the advantages of interdependent practice in that various needs are met, continuity of service is likely, and practitioners are open to several approaches. This paper lists advantages, assumptions, constraints, and desirable attitudes regarding interdisciplinary practice. Educational implications are made explicit with emphasis on professional identity formation.