The bestselling introductory Social Work text on the market, Zastrow's INTRODUCTION TO SOCIAL WORK AND SOCIAL WELFARE: EMPOWERING PEOPLE is lauded for being the most comprehensive and practical text available for beginning social workers. In addition to giving readers a thorough overview of the social work profession, this text offers a realistic view of social problems in contemporary society, equipping students with real-world insight that they can apply in practice. By presenting positive strategies in the context of the core values, ethics, skills, and knowledge base of today's professional social worker, Zastrow encourages students to think critically about new, workable methods for problem-solving and empowering clients. Case studies, exhibits and tables on contemporary social problems help students apply concepts and compare and contrast issues. The twelfth edition has been thoroughly updated to align with the latest EPAS (2015) from CSWE, and offers insights into new and emerging issues from the field.