AI AND THE FUTURE OF SOCIAL WORK is a timely and comprehensive exploration of how artificial intelligence is reshaping the practice, ethics, and future of social work across the globe. As digital technologies increasingly influence public services, social workers find themselves at the intersection of human care and machine intelligence. This book provides a thoughtful, human-centered guide to understanding, adopting, and critically engaging with AI tools in social welfare, mental health, community development, and public policy contexts. Written for students, educators, practitioners, administrators, and policymakers, it balances technical understanding with ethical reflection and practical application.

The book begins by situating AI within the broader digital revolution in human services, tracing how social work has evolved from manual, relationship-based practices to data-informed and technology-supported systems. It explains core AI concepts—such as machine learning, natural language processing, and predictive analytics—in accessible language, ensuring that readers without a technical background can build strong AI literacy. Throughout the text, AI is framed not as a replacement for human judgment and empathy, but as a tool that can augment decision-making, enhance early intervention, and improve service efficiency when used responsibly.

A central theme of the book is ethics, fairness, and human dignity. It critically examines issues of data privacy, consent, algorithmic bias, transparency, and accountability, emphasizing the unique ethical responsibilities of social workers when working with vulnerable populations. Real-world case studies and global examples illustrate both the promise and the risks of AI adoption, highlighting lessons learned from successful and problematic implementations alike. The book also explores predictive analytics and early warning systems, showing how AI can support prevention strategies in areas such as child welfare, homelessness, and mental health—while clearly addressing their limitations and potential harms.

Human–AI collaboration is another key focus, with chapters dedicated to maintaining empathy, trust, and relational practice in digitally mediated environments. The role of AI in mental health and counseling is examined in depth, including the use of chatbots, digital platforms, and crisis intervention tools. Recognizing the need for preparedness, the book emphasizes digital competence, education reform, and continuous professional development to empower social workers as informed users, critics, and shapers of AI technologies.

Finally, the book looks ahead to policy, governance, and the future of the profession. It outlines regulatory frameworks, international standards, and strategic pathways for building transparent, equitable, and sustainable AI-driven social services. By combining theory, practice, ethics, and policy, AI AND THE FUTURE OF SOCIAL WORK offers a holistic roadmap for reimagining social work in the age of intelligent systems—ensuring that innovation is guided by compassion, justice, and human values.