Social Welfare Consultation in Two Cultures:Some Comparisons and Observations
Abstract
Social Welfare Consultation in Two CulturesSome Comparisons and Observations SAGE Publications, Inc.1976DOI: 10.1177/002087287601900402 Jack R. Parsons Professor, School of Social Work, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, U.S.A. HE opportunity to practise, to teach T or to study in a developing country different from one's own, brings rich rewards. A relatively large number of social workers have been enabled to work in such settings but, unfortunately, only a few have recorded their experiences.' Yet the sharing of the knowledge and insights gained, the problems faced and the pleasures and hardships encountered would be most helpfu.l to other professionals on sim~iiar assignments or to those who work with individuals and group in subcultures. It was my very good fortune to serve as a social welfare consultant in two unique and distinctive societies. In both instance the settings were small but strategically important islands. My first appointment, sponsored by a private foundation, was for a two year period in Ceylon, now known as Sri Lank. A later one year assignment there and a two year stay in Cyprus resulted from being selected as a Fulb.right Lecturer. The Fulbright programme, named after its creator. Senator William J. Fulbright, is basical.ly an educational