Patients with diabetic nephropathy have psychological, financial, family and social problems. Given the problems faced by many patients, it is important to understand individual & family characteristics as both the patient and family face a series of adaptive tasks in relation to the illness. Trained social workers can offer tangible ways to help a patient maintain his or her individual integrity and dignity. In addition, a qualified social worker provides services that support and maximize the psychosocial functioning & adjustment of patients with chronic kidney disease and their families. This paper aims to increase diabetes educators` understandings of the social welfare approach for patients with diabetic nephropathy. (J Korean Diabetes 2013;14:42-45)