How many distinct social work roles are listed for generalist practice?

• A. Three
• B. Five
• C. Six
• D. Four

Answer: (B)

Generalist practice in social work is built around five distinct roles a practitioner assumes to help clients across systems. The enabler role focuses on helping clients develop the skills, confidence, and capacity to pursue their goals. The advocate role centers on supporting clients’ rights, challenging injustice, and mobilizing resources to overcome barriers. The broker role involves linking clients to needed services and coordinating supports across systems. The mediator role helps resolve conflicts that can block progress, whether between clients and providers or within groups. The educator role provides information, explains options, and teaches problem-solving and self-efficacy. Together, these five roles capture the versatile range of functions generalist practitioners perform, balancing empowerment, resource access, conflict resolution, and knowledge sharing to address diverse client needs.