Abstract:

Based on the previous research and practice, the paper finds that social work in the western region is facing four problems:specialization of social work occupation is not enough, mainly depending on the administrative logic; professionalism of the occupation is not high, let alone differentiation and competition; social prestige of social work occupation is too low, making it difficult to attract and retain talents; reform of social work occupation is in slow development, lack of stamina and power. The following would account for the problems:the lack of social development; the market is weak; the function of university as think-tank for the development of social work has not yet been demonstrated; the government should serve as a major external driving force, however, the fact is not like this. The government is the crucial point to break the social work development dilemma in the western region.

Key words: western region, social work, professionalism, basic problems, inner reason