The Vanishing Sociology-Social Work Alliance: A Study in the Politics of Professionalism

Authors

David G. Bromley, University of Texas, Arlington
Frank J. Weed, University of Texas, Arlington

Abstract

The undergraduate sociology-social work alliance in sociology departments has a long tradition in American colleges despite ideological differences between the two disciplines. Recently this old alliance shows signs of disintegration. This paper argues that the recent emphasis on professionalization of undergraduate social work through the use of accrediting standards coupled with the control of Federal social work training grants have placed new pressures on the old alliance. Evidence is presented which indicates that the conflict is being resolved in the direction of greater administrative specialization and autonomy for social work.

Recommended Citation

Bromley, David G. and Weed, Frank J. (1978) "The Vanishing Sociology-Social Work Alliance: A Study in the Politics of Professionalism," The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare: Vol. 5: Iss. 2, Article 3.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.15453/0191-5096.1274
Available at: https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/jssw/vol5/iss2/3