The nature and specificity of Social Work: a challenge to be resolved. Reflections for the debate

Abstract

This essay reflects on the conceptual maturation of the author after the systematization of his participation in various national and international academic events where he presented research about the theme. The purpose of the article is to contribute to the discussion about the nature and specificity of Social Work and clarify an old issue that has current importance as a continuing challenge. It emphasizes that the nature of Social Work is constituted by a set of elements that establish certain regularities that have supported its trajectory and cemented the professional identity. This specificity is understood as a distinctive element within the diversity of the social sciences and that there is a professional nature and specificity that establish the disciplinary identity.