Social Class and Classism in the Helping Professions: Research, Theory, and Practice

The impact of social class and classism on mental health functioning crosses racial, ethnic, and social lines and significantly contributes to our overall well-being. Any attempt to understand individuals must include an understanding of how economic issues and class have contributed to the individuals' difficulties. In Social Class and Classism in the Helping Professions, author William Ming Liu presents theory and research on the impact of classism and social class on mental health. He provides an original framework-the Social Class Worldview Model-for exploring each person's individual and subjective life experiences. These experiences form a perspective that is unique to the individual. The author then helps the reader integrate this realization into the study of poverty, economic inequality, wealth, and the often overlooked implications of greed, materialism, and consumerism for a more complete understanding of social class and classism.

Key Features

Liu's original Social Class Worldview Model provides a theoretical framework for integrating each individual's reaction to social class and classism experiences and addressing that worldview within counseling and psychology.

An "Implications for Practice" section at the end of many chapters helps professionals recognize ways to interpret and frame each client's experiences and how to use that knowledge compassionately and effectively.

Readers receive guidance in additional ways to act as advocates for their clients-regardless of affluence-through a study of privilege, social justice, empowerment, and competence.