What is an overarching goal of macro social work practice regarding power?

In macro social work practice, one of the fundamental objectives is to address and reverse processes of disempowerment that affect individuals and communities. This involves advocating for social justice, equity, and the empowerment of marginalized populations. The essence of macro practice is to challenge systemic barriers that contribute to power imbalances, thereby facilitating opportunities for those who are often left voiceless.

The focus on reversing disempowerment highlights the commitment of social workers to engage in advocacy, policy development, and community organizing aimed at creating more equitable power structures. By working to dismantle systems that perpetuate inequality, macro social work aims to foster environments where individuals and groups can have a meaningful say in decisions affecting their lives. This approach supports community capacity building and encourages active participation, ultimately leading to more inclusive and representative systems.

Promoting isolation, maintaining the status quo, or establishing hierarchies runs counter to these ideals, as these actions would further entrench existing power dynamics and exacerbate disempowerment rather than resolve it. Therefore, the focus on reversing disempowerment aligns with the broader mission of macro social work to create social change and empower individuals and communities.