The Private Social Work Practitioner's Role in Working with Southeast Asian Organizations

The paper is directed toward private practitioners who have limited experience with the Southeast Asian community. It identifies some of the broad cultural perspectives that non-Asian social workers need to take into consideration as they attempt to work with Southeast Asian organizations. Concepts of community, community leadership, informal networks and communication styles are examined and discussed. Specific attention is given to the role of mutual assistance associations (MAAs) in the refugee community. The paper concludes with suggested guidelines for practice.