The Afrocentric paradigm in social work: A historical perspective and future outlook

ABSTRACT

The Afrocentric paradigm in social work is an important professional development towards rendering social work practice more culturally competent. Grounded in a critique of Eurocentric models of social science and social work practice, the paradigm draws heavily on the shared cultural values and practices of traditional Africa that have been articulated most poignantly in Cheikh Anta Diop’s two cradle theory. The Afrocentric paradigm also relies on the shared experiences African-Americans have had with Eurocentric domination since the initiation of the transatlantic slave trade and their efforts to contest the inimical effects of this form of oppression. This article provides a historical overview of the Afrocentric paradigm and examines its relationship to social work. It also offers some ideas about the future viability of the paradigm within the new era of oppression by incorporation.

KEYWORDS:

• Afrocentric
• cultural competence
• social work theory
• racial oppression
• social welfare history