Reconceptualisation of Freire’s heritage in the context of social work

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to attempt to reconceptualise, sum up and analyse the main heritage of the Brazilian philosopher and educator Paul Freire and present its significance for social work. Since few authors analysed this issue, the paper will primarily aim to provide a more coherent framework of Freire’s ides in the context of social work that have already been examined. Namely, the paper will present in what manner his ides, such as critical pedagogy, reflexive practice, critical thinking, dialogue, empowerment, reciprocity and many others, influence social work practice. The aforementioned Freire’s ideas which are relevant for social work are grouped into three areas: (1) critical social work, empowerment and re-evaluation of the position of social work in society, (2) ideas that could be used for reconceptualisation of the relationship between a social worker and a client, and (3) ideas directed towards reflection on growth and development of social workers as professionals. Following the analysis of the aforementioned concepts and areas, the final part of the paper leaves room for assessing the relevance of Freire’s theoretical frameworks with the aim of developing key competences of the social work profession which are focused on dialogue, progressive social changes and overall social development, as well as on the challenges in the context of contemporary social work.