A Conception of Social Development

Based on an analytical review of the sources of social development formulation and the body of existing theory about the nature of development, an attempt is made to construct a conceptual framework. In particular, four main concepts are identified as crucial to the process of social development, preceded by a definition and a discussion of prerequirements. Some features of the social development approach are outlined, with a brief examination of implications for the human service profes- sions, especially social work.