Heterodox Social Work

Authors

• Bruce Thyer, Florida State University
• Nafees Alam, University of Nebraska at Kearney
• Heidi Adams Rueda, University of Nebraska at OmahaFollow
• Steven Hoffman, Brigham Young University

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

6-29-2026

Publication Title

Encyclopedia of Social Work

DOI

https://doi.org/10.1093/9780197851364.003.1738

Abstract

Heterodox social work has emerged as a perspective that advocates for viewpoint diversity, constructive disagreement, and open inquiry in social work education and practice. Building upon the Heterodox Academy’s broader mission in higher education, heterodox social work challenges ideological conformity and promotes intellectual pluralism as essential components of ethical practice. This approach emphasizes the importance of engaging with diverse perspectives, including those that may challenge dominant paradigms within the profession. Through fostering environments where disagreement is viewed as an opportunity for learning rather than a threat, heterodox social work aims to strengthen the profession’s capacity to serve diverse populations effectively while maintaining fidelity to core social work values of human dignity, self-determination, and social justice.

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Comments

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Recommended Citation

Thyer, Bruce, and others, 'Heterodox Social Work' (29 June 2026), in Cynthia Franklin (ed.), Encyclopedia of Social Work (New York, NY, online edn, Oxford Academic, 11 June 2013 - ), https://doi.org/10.1093/9780197851364.003.1738, accessed 23 July 2026.