Keywords

social work, research, fathers, fatherhood, fathering

Abstract

In introducing this special issue of Social Work Research, we feel it is important to discuss why social work practice and research with men and fathers is of critical importance and deserving of specific attention. Social work researchers and practitioners need to focus on men and fathers, both as a special population and as subpopulations of other groups. A focus on men and fathers is critical because (a) it is a social justice issue for men, women, and children; (b) men are underserved by helping professionals, including social workers, particularly in certain contexts and programs; (c) social workers are uniquely positioned to tackle the most pressing problems men face; and (d) social work values suggest that addressing men's issues is necessary to our identity as social workers.

Original Publication Citation

Shafer, K. & Bellamy, J.L. (2016). “Guest Editorial: Focusing on Men and Fathers—A Challenge for Social Work Research and Practice.” Social Work Research, 40(4): 199-202.