This article presents the work of Helena Radlinska, one of the founders of social work in Poland. Her work is discussed within the context of Polish history as the early development of social work in Poland is closely allied to the creation of a national identity. Implications for current social work practice, education and research are explored. It is proposed that Radlinska’s model expands current conceptualizations of social work practice and moves the profession towards an empowerment-based model, more effective in serving oppressed and socially underdeveloped populations.
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