Inclusive Group Work

Inclusive Group Work offers an innovative approach to working with intervention groups and task groups by redefining the concept of diversity and reframing core group work concepts. Appropriate for both undergraduate and graduate courses, this book introduces readers to the foundations of group practice with an emphasis on social justice. The book presents diversity as a relational concept that is at the heart of all group interactions. Individual identity is complex, and in order for all members to be treated equally their individuality must be accepted and respected. Using this framework, the book discusses the values and ethics of social work with groups, explores the stages of group work including planning, and presents both basic and advanced skills such as conflict resolution and the use of self. Theories are put into practice in three chapters of case studies that show in-detail how diversity can be employed as a strength in multiple settings to achieve the wide variety of goals groups pursue. Through this new approach, students and practitioners alike will learn how to harness diversity to engage and maintain participation in inclusive group processes.

About the Author
William Pelech, (MSW, University of British Columbia; PhD, Wilfrid Laurier University) is full professor and associate dean in the Faculty of Social Work at the University of Calgary. He has practiced and taught group work for over 20 years. Dr. Pelech currently holds a major national tri-council grant, which focuses on how practitioners utilize diversity in their group work practice.
Robert Basso (MSW, Wilfrid Laurier University; PhD, University of Toronto) is associate professor in the faculty of social work at Wilfrid Laurier University in Waterloo, Ontario. He is associate dean of the BSW Program and is chair of the University Research Ethics Board. Dr. Basso has been a practicing group worker for over three decades and has published many research-based group practice articles and a book relating to group work practice.
Cheryl D. Lee ( MSW, PhD, Arizona State University) is professor at the school of social work, California State University, Long Beach. She has taught social work with groups for 17 years and has been the group worker for many task, intervention, and social action group. She is also very active in the International Association of Social Work with Groups (IASWG). She also serves on the editorial board of Groupwork.

Maria Gandarilla (BSW, MSW, California State University Long Beach) currently works as a hospice social worker in Orange County, California. Ms. Gandarilla has facilitated/co-facilitated several groups throughout her career including teen parenting support groups, anger management groups, parent advocacy groups, and talking circles with elementary aged children. Ms. Gandarilla serves as an elected board member with the IASWG Southern California Chapter and has held multiple leadership positions.