Differential Use of Social Work Manpower

In this paper the authors report on a research, training, and demonstration study that dealt with the interaction of law and social work graduate students in delivering services to the elderly poor. Data suggested more similarities than differences in roles and tasks performed. Attitudinal measures indicated stereotypes toward the disciplines and the elderly. Confusion of roles and stereotypic attitudes accounted for a low referral rate within a project highly skewed toward interdisciplinary practice. Confrontation education is suggested as a means to modify stereotypes, clarify roles, and encourage the integrated service delivery needed by the elderly. Implications for higher education are drawn.