| Abstract: | The comments concerning social work and psychology which have appeared in the American Psychologist in recent years (Andriola, December 1951; Singer, December 1952; Joyce, January 1957; Andriola, January 1957) have been both heartening and disturbing: heartening in that they reflect an increasing awareness of the need for greater mutual understanding and disturbing in that the implication is conveyed that the other profession should assume primary responsibility for interpreting itself. The present concern with understanding the role of the other profession, and the desire to be understood ourselves, reflects in part, I think, the current struggle each profession is going through in defining its own role, responsibilities, and limitations. The goal, it would seem, is to develop an understanding and awareness of the related profession which enables one to work harmoniously and effectively with members of that profession and utilize their special services to the benefit of the client. How can this best be accomplished? I would suggest by each profession taking an increasing responsibility for providing adequate opportunities for their aspirants to come into interactive relationship with members of the related profession, and at a graduate training level. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved) |
