Professionals in the field of social work are becoming increasingly aware of ethnic factors in their work and of the particular problems and requirements of ethnic minority clients. This book was written for students and practitioners who want to prepare for effective social work practice with black clients. The concept of "empowerment" is presented as a goal of problem solving with clients who belong to a stigmatized group. The manner in which the negative evaluation of such individuals leads to feelings of powerlessness and reduced social effectiveness is described. Criteria are suggested for measuring whether a particular professional intervention is likely to lead to empowerment. The sociohistorical context which influences problem solving with black clients is discussed and specific philosophical and scientific issues relating to the empowerment concept are evaluated. The effects of negative images of black are traced as they operate in major social institutions such as the family, peer groups, and schools. These effects are connected to the emergence of characteristic personal and social problems encountered in black communities. Following upon an earlier discussion, empowerment is defined as a process whereby self direction and the helping process are the healing and strengthening forces among blacks. Throughout this book, the role of the social work professional is examined through practical exercises and discussions. (Author/GC)