The Origins and Future of Rural Social Work

Abstract

Traced in the article are some of the author’s reflections and experiences related to the origins of rural social work practice as well as some of the issues currently crucial for rural social work educators and practitioners. New data on U.S. rural demographics are provided. One factor with a special impact on rural life is the development of technology, which in some ways is changing the nature of rural community life. Integrated into this discussion of rural practice are observations about social work education in general and some of its current trends, reflective of the author’s 50 years as an educator.