Glossary of Terms for Anti-Oppressive Policy and Practice (2nd Edition)

Edited by Bill Lee, Sheila Sammon & Gary C. Dumbrill

Social work is heavily dependent on language communication. The words and terms we use with the people with whom we work, as well as with each other, and the general public are crucial. Glossary of Terms for Anti-Oppressive Policy and Practice compiled by Bill Lee, Sheila Sammon and Gary C. Dumbrill of McMaster School of Social Work is an important tool for teaching critical thinking and anti-oppressive approaches to social interventions at any level.

Some of the language that has been developed to enable us to discuss the issues of subjugation, oppression, and liberation can seem challenging. This is not surprising when we consider that the issues they are meant to address often involve complex and sensitive issues of power and privilege. Too often, however, the language is experienced as distancing academics from students, and professionals from the people they are supposed to be assisting. For this reason, the editors have put together this Glossary of Terms that tend to be utilized in discussions of the issues and practices that are the stuff of anti-oppressive social work.