ABSTRACT
We might ask how it is that a critical social work approach, a progressive approach to practice with its roots in radical social work, is relevant or useful to social work interventions with people who are grieving or bereaved, such as the man in the above scene. I argue here that critical social work has deep significance in our work with grieving and bereaved individuals if we are to work with them in ways that open up rather than limit the possibilities for supporting them in their grief. Oppressive circumstances and the vicissitudes of power impact the lives of those people affected by loss, grief, and bereavement, whether or not we are consciously aware of this. A critical social work approach helps raise awareness of power and oppression underpinned by taken-for-granted assumptions, and reminds us to first and foremost be person-centered in our work with clients.
