Decathexis - Audio Excerpt on End of Life from Beginnings, Middles, & Ends

Listen to an excerpt from the book, Beginnings, Middles, & Ends: Sideways Stories on the Art & Soul of Social Work, read by the author, Ogden Rogers.

This story, titled "Decathexis," is from the "Ends" section of the book and illustrates a moment between the social worker and a client at the end of life.

This story is one of 99 included in the book of stories about a life in social work. Here's what social work educator Mildred "Mit" Joyner had to say about it:

"Beginnings, Middles, and Ends by Ogden W. Rogers is a thought-provoking book about the evolution of the author's career in the field of social work. The real life stories are whimsical as well as enlightening. You follow the yellow brick road of a social work career and feel the passion and dedication that is required of those who are engaged in the social work profession. What I learned from the various stories in the book is that a dedicated passionate social worker is first and foremost a change agent. Advocacy at all levels is the key to what all effective social workers do in order to promote that 'more perfect union.' A great read for anyone entering the profession, or if you are involved and feel your passion flickering, this book will surely re-ignite your love."

Mildred "Mit" Joyner, MSW, LCSW, Emerita Director and Professor of Social Work, West Chester University of Pennsylvania

This book of 99 stories reads easily, and the author tells tales that operate at many levels. The stories exemplify role modeling and transformational learning theories, and readers are encouraged to reflect and consider their own thoughts and reactions to each piece. It's written in an easy, non-linear style that is filled with wit, wisdom, and drama. In many ways, it is a book that looks at social work from the inside out, and seeks to provide the reader with opportunities for validation, surprise, critique, and reading enjoyment.

For more information and to buy the book, see: