Synopses & Reviews
This crisp text, by one of social works most highly regarded commentators, offers the perfect entry point into the complex world of social work theory. Written in a clear conversational style and organized into short, clearly labelled chapters, students and practitioners will find this an invaluable point of refreshment and reference.
Synopsis
This textbook offers the perfect introduction to the complex world of social work theory, giving a concise yet comprehensive overview of how practice is influenced by each theoretical approach described. The book begins by outlining the origins and historical context of social work, which allows the reader to see show how theoretical fashions have changed and adapted to certain times, and concludes with advice on the best way forward for the modern-day social worker. Packed with thought-provoking discussions surrounding the topic, students will be encouraged to question the theories portrayed - a skill crucial to being a truly effective social work practitioner.
Written by one social work's most highly regarded commentators, the book's accessible and easy-to-read writing style makes it a must-have companion for students and practitioners looking to gain an overall view of social work theory.
About the Author
DAVID HOWE is Professor of Social Work at the University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK. He was founding editor of the
Blackwell Science Journal, Child and Family Social Work (1996-2001) and is author of many books, including:
Attachment Theory for Social Work Practice;
Attachment Theory, Child Maltreatment and Family Support;
Child Abuse and Neglect: Attachment, Development and Intervention; and
The Emotionally Intelligent Social Worker.
Table of Contents
Social Work Theory * Origins * Casework and Social Reform * Cause and Function * Psychoanalytic Theory * Attachment Theory * Behavioural Therapies * Cognitive Therapies * Cognitive-Behavioural Social Work * Task-centred work * Be Responsible, Think Positive * Solution-focused Approaches * The Strengths Perspective * Systemic and Ecological Approaches *
Radical Social Work * Critical Social Work * Feminist Social Work * Anti-oppressive Practices and Empowerment * Relationship-based Social Work * Person-centred Approaches * Reflection and Reflexivity * Wellbeing * Brains for Social Workers * Critical Best Practice * The Best in Theory