A Perspective on Theoretical Frameworks in Perinatal Social Work: Findings of a Review Study

Arman, Fatemeh; Ahmadnia, Shirin; Fathi, Mansour

doi:10.22054/rjsw.2025.83635.791

A Perspective on Theoretical Frameworks in Perinatal Social Work: Findings of a Review Study

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

fatemeh arman ¹

shirin ahmadnia ²

mansour fathi ³

¹ Ph.D. Candidate in Social Work, Allameh Tabataba&amp;amp;#039;i University, Tehran, Iran

² Associate Professor of Sociology, Allameh Tabataba'i University, Tehran, Iran

³ Associate Professor of Sociology, Allameh Tabataba'i University, Tehran, Iran

https://doi.org/10.22054/rjsw.2025.83635.791

Abstract

Pregnancy is a period of significant life changes for families, requiring adaptation and coping with new challenges. Social workers, due to their expertise in social services, play a key role in providing comprehensive prenatal care. However, there is no comprehensive research in Iran on the role of social workers and their theoretical approaches during the prenatal period. This systematic review aimed to identify these roles and approaches by examining 17 international articles published between 2010 and 2023. The results indicate that social workers utilize a variety of theories, particularly interactional and social theories. This study also emphasizes that social justice is a core principle of prenatal social work. Using theories such as feminist, racial discrimination, and empowerment, social workers strive to reduce social and health disparities and promote the well-being of mothers, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds. The findings of this research highlight the importance of multi-faceted and community-based approaches in prenatal social work interventions. Furthermore, interprofessional collaboration between social workers and other healthcare professionals is essential for providing comprehensive and effective services to mothers and infants. The findings of this study can serve as a basis for improving service quality and developing intervention programs in prenatal social work in Iran.

Keywords

Perinatal social work

Theoretical frameworks

Social justice

Prenatal care

Interprofessional collaboration

Subjects