"Does social work need another theory book? The answer has to be a resounding 'yes'. This is a broad-based, authoritative and above all, accessible introduction to some key theories in social work. Each chapter follows a logical structure, beginning with the theory explained and moving onto basic assumptions, using theory in practice, strengths and limitations and wider considerations. The book will be useful for social work students and educators alike." Professor Viviene E. Cree, School of Social & Political Science, The University of Edinburgh, UK This practical book provides a basic introduction to the most commonly used theories and methods in social work practice. The book explores the concept of a theory and a method, the difference between the two and the ways in which they are connected. Teater also discusses the social worker-client relationship and offers a handy overview of anti-oppressive practice. Assuming little to no prior knowledge, each chapter explores a single theory or method in depth and uses a variety of interactive tools to encourage you to explore your own thoughts and beliefs. Step-by-step illustrations show how to apply the theory/method to a social work case example and exercises, questions, diagrams, tables and figures all encourage further learning. An Introduction to Applying Social Work Theories and Methods is a practical guide for social work students to use both in the classroom and as a reference guide while on placement. Equally, this book is a useful reference for social work practitioners. Contributor David Kondrat
The text is a comprehensive guide to the most commonly used theories and methods in social work practice. The introductory chapter covers the similarities and differences between a theory and a method, as well as psychosocial theories and concepts. Each subsequent chapter then explores in detail how to implement theories and methods, their strengths and limitations, alongside case examples, critical thinking questions and suggested further resources. Key features: • Illustrative case studies • Exercises • Case examples • Critical thinking questions • Further readings/resources • Revised content, including the addition of genograms and ecomaps This is a practical and essential guide for all social work students, practitioners, and practice educators who are working with students in field placements. The book is an updated third edition to a successful and established series. “The clarity with which Teater describes complex concepts for social workers is refreshing. This book will help promote understanding and best practice whilst being firmly grounded in key theories. It is a 'must have' for all social workers wherever they practise!” Dr Jonathan Parker, Professor of Society & Social Welfare, Bournemouth University, UK “This latest edition of 'Theories and Methods' is as solid as its predecessors academically, with a clear and easy to follow structure that makes it accessible in a way many such books are not. I have used previous editions in many situations, settings and levels, and endorse this latest as a must-have for anyone involved with social work. Explanation is clear and the use of tables, diagrams and cases bring the theory alive and enable users to realistically transfer theory to practice. The use of exercise and questions provide a springboard to deeper learning as do the handy references and pointers to further reading at the end of each chapter. Inclusion of sections such as the 'cultural and ethical considerations' lend themselves to self-analysis, exploration and ultimately self-development. A dream of a book to work with as an academic, tutor, practice educator and trainer...as well as student.” Michele Winter, Independent Social Worker & Teacher/Trainer, Social Care Training “I can wholeheartedly recommend this revised and updated edition of Barbra Teater’s highly successful book. It remains essential reading for practitioners, undergraduate and postgraduate students of social work. The book provides a compelling and easily accessible analysis of key theories and methods. It challenges both students and practitioners to consider and reconsider how they can apply theories and methods to practice more effectively.” Prof Hugh Mclaughlin, Manchester Metropolitan University, UK “What a great book – Barbra Teater and colleagues have managed to bring together a wealth of learning about different theories and methods of social work intervention in a clearly written and accessible format. Each chapter is focused on the application of theory to practice, and as such helps to act as a bridge from the classroom to direct work with individuals, families and groups. This new and updated edition is very likely to be one of those books that students have by their side throughout their studies, and bring with them into professional practice after graduation.” Dr John Devaney, Centenary Professor of Social Work, University of Edinburgh, UK
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.
Social work theory is full of ideas about how to practise. It guides you in what to do as well as how to approach and think about social work goals. In this clear and systematic book covering both general practice concepts and theoretical insights, best-selling author Malcolm Payne shows you how to work with the main theories and practice techniques and pinpoint their strengths and limitations. This book: • Explores the social work process from first to last contact; • Covers all the theories and methods you need to know as a practitioner; • Examines practice techniques and the ideas that inform them; • Includes helpful chapter-by-chapter infographics. This practical guide condenses the practical features of social work theory but doesn’t oversimplify them. Students and practitioners can confidently put their knowledge into action and see how everyday practice implements theoretical ideas. It will be an invaluable resource to students and newly qualified practitioners in social work and in related fields of practice, making connections with both classic and contemporary movements in social work.
Successful social work practice is underpinned by knowledge, theories and research findings from a range of related disciplines, key among which is psychology. This timely book offers a grounded and engaging guide to psychology's vital role at the heart of contemporary social work practice. The book skilfully addresses some of the central theoretical developments in psychology from an applied perspective, and explains how these make essential contributions to the methods and theory base of social work in ways that foster critical evaluation and promote best practice. Written by two authors with extensive backgrounds in psychology and social work respectively—as well as a deep understanding of the intersections of the two—this book delivers a unique synthesis of perspectives and approaches, focusing on their application to the lives of individuals and families. Each chapter contains reflective points and case studies based on contemporary practice realities which are related to the Professional Capabilities Framework for Social Workers and also to the Health and Care Professions Council's Standards of Proficiency. Times have never been more challenging for social work and this book will be an invaluable source of professional support within the ever-more complex psychological worlds where social work takes place.
This thoroughly updated resource is the only comprehensive anthology addressing frameworks for treatment, therapeutic modalities, and specialized clinical issues, themes, and dilemmas encountered in clinical social work practice. Editor Jerrold R. Brandell and other leading figures in the field present carefully devised methods, models, and techniques for responding to the needs of an increasingly diverse clientele. Key Features Coverage of the most commonly used theoretical frameworks and systems in social work practice Entirely new chapters devoted to clinical responses to terrorism and natural disasters, clinical case management, neurobiological theory, cross-cultural clinical practice, and research on clinical practice Completely revised chapters on psychopharmacology, dynamic approaches to brief and time-limited clinical social work, and clinical practice with gay men Content on the evidentiary base for clinical practice New, detailed clinical illustrations in many chapters offering valuable information about therapeutic process dimensions and the use of specialized methods and clinical techniques Accompanied by Robust Ancillaries. The password-protected Instructor Teaching Site of the companion site includes a test bank, recommended readings, and relevant Internet websites. The open-access Student Study Site offers chapter summaries, keywords, recommended Web sites, and recommended readings. The extensive breadth of coverage makes this book an essential source of information for students in advanced practice courses and practicing social workers alike.
This widely adopted text explores key theories and models that frame reading instruction and research. Readers learn why theory matters in designing and implementing high-quality instruction and research; how to critically evaluate the assumptions and beliefs that guide their own work; and what can be gained by looking at reading through multiple theoretical lenses. For each theoretical model, classroom applications are brought to life with engaging vignettes and teacher reflections. Research applications are discussed and illustrated with descriptions of exemplary studies. New to This Edition *Current developments in theory, research, and instructional practices. *Useful pedagogical features in every chapter: framing questions, discussion ideas, and learning activities. *Classroom applications give increased attention to English language learners and technology integration. *Coverage of additional theories (Third Space Theory) and theorists (Bakhtin and Bourdieu).
