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A student-friendly introduction to social work theories and methods, drawing on current social work research.
"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
A student-friendly introduction to social work theories and methods, drawing on current social work research.
"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"--Back cover.
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
`An excellent book that provides a good deal of valuable material to stimulate debate and to alert readers of the need to engage more critically with the wider world in which social work is located′ - Professor Keith Popple, Professor of Social Work London South Bank University This exciting book draws together the key contemporary theories, theorists and perspectives used in social work and explains how they are applied in practice and critiqued by social workers. It provides: - An outline of the contribution made by a key theorist, theory or perspective to social work - A selective bibliography of each thinker or approach - A glossary defining key traditions, with cross links to key theorists and perspectives - A timeline of key publications - Study questions at the end of each chapter. The book will be valuable for undergraduate, graduate students, post qualifying students and researchers in social work.
This exciting new book provides an overview of fifteen different contemporary social work practice settings, spanning across the statutory, voluntary, private and third sectors. It serves as the perfect introduction to the various roles social workers can have and the numerous places they can work, equipping students with the knowledge, skills and values required to work in areas ranging from mental health to fostering and adoption, and from alcohol and drug treatment services to youth offending. Each chapter provides: An overview of the setting, including the role of the social worker, how service users gain access to the service and key issues, definitions or terms specific to the setting Legislation and policy guidance related to the specific setting The key theories and methods related to the setting Best practice approaches and the benefits and challenges of working within the setting Case examples illustrating the application of the information to practice Social work students will find this an invaluable handbook that they will refer to time and again throughout their education and into their assessed and supported year of employment. Contributors: Mark Baldwin, Jo Bell, Jenny Clifford, Jill Chonody, Clare Evans, Benedict Fell, Alinka Gearon, Issy Harvey, Caroline Hickman, Tony Jeffs, Debbie Martin, Malcolm Payne, Justin Rogers, Sue Taplin, Barbra Teater, John Watson, Michele Winter. "It is an excellent student introduction to this diverse profession. Full of information that provides a thought provoking read." Andrew Ellery, Social Care Professional "This book really is an excellent resource for social work students at an introductory level and for preparation for placement levels. It provides a comprehensive overview of a range of service user groups as well as specific issues such as domestic violence, homelessness and substance use. Each section is structured around the policy and legislative context and includes comment on theory, challenges and anti-oppressive practice with case examples to aid learning. The focus on the settings within which social work is practiced is particularly welcome and provides an essential companion to introductory books which look more at values, professional behaviour and skills. The range of different settings covered provides excellent preparation for students about to start a placement. The sections on rehabilitation of offenders and self-harm highlight topics that are often given less attention but may well be encountered by students on placement. I will certainly be including this book as essential reading for students on introductory and practice preparation modules." Allan Rose, Social Work Lecturer, Brunel University, UK
This popular and innovative core text book explores contemporary social work theories and perspectives in a systematic way, using an integrated and flexible framework to link context, theory, and practice approaches. Healy expertly provides an applied guide to social work theory across a range of organisational contexts, showing social work as a diverse activity that is profoundly shaped by professional purpose, public policy, and practice locations. This is ideal reading to support and develop undergraduate and postgraduate students taking modules on Social Work Theories and Methods on qualifying professional programmes. Its international breadth and supportive pedagogical features have ensured the book's value to students of social work all over the world. New to this Edition: - A greater focus on service user perspectives - Coverage is extended to include solution focused therapy and empowerment theories as well as discussion of the evidence-based practice debate - Discussion of the use and limits of critical reflection in practice
Health services practice or working with clients facing health issues requires diverse approaches and wide-ranging knowledge. In this ground-breaking book Melissa Petrakis draws on the experience and expertise of leading researchers and practitioners to provide a guide to the disparate settings in which social workers are engaged and the conceptual frameworks and skills needed for effective practice. The book begins by examining the nature of health social work and considers its core values and principles. This section also provides an overview of the social determinants of health. Part 2 explores key areas of practice including working with children, mothers and families, hospital-based social work, domestic and family violence, mental health, dual diagnosis, forensic social work, Indigenous approaches to health, oncology and aged care. Part 3 looks at politicised issues in the field including working with people living with disability, refugee health and concludes by considering how a focus on well-being informed by Maori approaches could provide new insights into better practice. Underpinning the book throughout is a clear guide to assessment procedures, case management, strengths-based practices and developing effective partnerships and collaboration. Social Work Practice in Health is destined to become a key reference tool for social work students and practitioners, providing practical, evidence-based and insightful approaches.
