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Is there a European social work identity?

Frost, Elizabeth

Authors

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Liz Frost Elizabeth.Frost@uwe.ac.uk
Associate Professor in Social Work



Abstract

The aim of this paper is to examine whether at this point in time the notion of a 'European social work identity' can be sustained. The paper commences with some brief consideration of theories of identity, and particularly draws attention to social constructionist identity theory, highlighting its focus on identity as a process. Ideas about what constitutes 'collective identity' are then examined. From this, two particular models of collective identity are presented which are helpful for understanding cultural identities. These are the more 'traditional' notion of collective culture being evidenced by the presence of shared histories and traditions, and the more social constructionist view of collective processes and action to form identities - whether imposed by the state or generated by the people - as constitutive of identities in themselves. 'European identity', and then 'European social work identity', will then be examined using these models of collective identity. The paper concludes that using social constructionist versions of identity (identity as a process of collectivisation), European social work identity can certainly be established.

Citation

Frost, E. (2008). Is there a European social work identity?. European Journal of Social Work, 11(4), 341-354. https://doi.org/10.1080/13691450802075691

Journal Article Type Article
Publication Date Dec 22, 2008
Journal European Journal of Social Work
Print ISSN 1369-1457
Electronic ISSN 1468-2664
Publisher Taylor & Francis (Routledge)
Peer Reviewed Peer Reviewed
Volume 11
Issue 4
Pages 341-354
DOI https://doi.org/10.1080/13691450802075691
Keywords Europe, identity, social work
Public URL https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/1006995
Publisher URL http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/13691450802075691