This article discusses the current work experiences of direct practice social workers. Examples from the practices of social workers are used to illustrate that the work settings of direct practitioners are extremely competitive and marketing oriented. This article also discusses the business practices of social work versus the stated mission of the profession. Information is presented to conclude that the emphasis on charity and social reform should be reconsidered and framed differently in light of the social work profession’s professional status and the work experiences of direct practitioners.
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