A Brief Introduction to Social Work Theory

by David Howe, Darren Hill

Overview

As a social worker, you must make sense of complex situations and determine the needs of various individuals. As star constellations offer a guide by which to navigate, social work theories offer ways to make sense of practice.

Tackling the major theories used within social work, this book gives a concise and engaging overview of how practice is influenced by each approach described. The book outlines the origins and historical context of social work, which allows the reader to see how theoretical fashions have changed and adapted to certain times, and offers advice on the best way forward for the modern-day social worker. Packed with thought-provoking case studies and reflective questions on each topic, readers will be encouraged to question the theories outlined – a skill crucial to being a truly effective social work practitioner.

The book is ideal for quick reference in lectures, on placement or in practice. Whether you're a student, a newly qualified social worker or a 'seasoned' professional, you will return to this indispensable text time and time again.

A Brief Introduction to Social Work Theory is also available in audiobook format from audiobook retailers.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781350303690
Publisher:	Bloomsbury Academic
Publication date:	05/02/2024
Edition description:	2nd ed.
Pages:	272
Product dimensions:	6.15(w) x 9.15(h) x 0.65(d)

About the Author

David Howe OBE is Emeritus Professor of Social Work at the University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK.

Dr Darren Hill is Reader in Social Work, Leeds Beckett University, UK.

Table of Contents

Introduction
1. Social Work Theory
2. Origins, Casework and Social Reform
3. Cause and Function
4. Psychoanalytic Theory
5. Attachment Theory
6. Behavioural Therapies
7. Cognitive Therapies
8. Task-centred work
9. Be Responsible, Think Positive
10. Solution-focused Approaches
11. The Strengths Perspective
12. Systemic and Ecological Approaches
13. Radical Social Work
14. Critical Social Work
15. Feminist Social Work
16. Anti-oppressive Practices and Empowerment
17. Relationship-based Social Work
18. Person-centred Approaches
19. Reflection and Reflexivity
20. Wellbeing
21. Critical Best Practice
22. The Best in Theory

Appendix of Case Studies
Bibliography
Index

What People are Saying About This

From the Publisher

A comprehensive yet concise introduction to social work theory. A must for every social work student.' - Martin Sheedy, Lecturer at Liverpool John Moore's University, UK

'An excellent text that is 'non-threatening' for new students, who can gain an overall picture of the range of theory available to them.' - Kay Wall, Lecturer at North East Worcestershire College, UK

'A wonderous handbook, excellent.' - Nigel Horner, Lecturer at University of Lincoln, UK

'Howe clearly explains his aspiration for this book, stating that he hopes it will 'excite' the reader, and excite it does. I would highly recommend that you chose this title for your collection, and refer to it often in your attempts to understand human beings and the situations they find themselves within.' - Community Care

'useful for all social work educators and researchers who have tended to adopt, sometimes uncritically, the latest 'truths' in theory and practice emerging from the English-speaking world, to read Howe's book and perhaps avoid the pitfalls of accepting single theories or models of practice that might not fit their contexts.' - European Journal of Social Work

Editorial Reviews

A must-read for all social work students, practitioners, leaders and academics. I would highly recommend this book to anyone with an interest in the application of theory to practice.” —Jane Pye, Lecturer in Social Work, Lancaster University, UK

“Provides students with a realistic and practical examination of social work theory. The authors' clear style and use of case studies and reflective questions will help students to understand and apply challenging material.” —Professor Shonda Lawrence, Associate Professor in Social Work, Governors State University, USA

From the Publisher