Social Work Theory and Methods: The Essentials

This gateway text lays the foundations for a thorough knowledge of the theory and methods that social workers need. Pulling together the work of a team of experts, this book uses the innovative “theorizing practice” approach, rather than the traditional “applying theory to practice” approach, thereby providing a much more satisfactory basis for understanding the relationship between theory and practice and making it easier for practitioners to employ theory in practice. Part I sets the scene by examining the relationship between theory and practice, how research can be used to inform practice and the important role of policy and organizational factors. Part II provides 14 chapters, each exploring a different theoretical approach. All in all, this book provides the ideal introduction to using social work theory and methods in practice.

Table of Contents:
Part One Chapter 1: Theory and Methods in a Practice Context: Theorizing Practice Neil Thompson Chapter 2: Theory and Methods in an Intellectual Context: Using Research Paul Stepney and Neil Thompson Chapter 3: Theory and Methods in a Policy and Organizational Context: International Perspectives Paul Stepney Part Two Chapter 4: Psychodynamic Theory Malcolm Payne Chapter 5: Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy Paul Stepney and Paul Davis Chapter 6: Task-Centered Practice Ronald Rooney Chapter 7: Crisis Intervention Neil Thompson Chapter 8: Narrative Approaches Louise Harms Chapter 9: Existentialism Neil Thompson Chapter 10: Solution-focused Practice Suki Desai Chapter 11: Mediation Wing Hong Chui Chapter 12: Social Pedagogy Juha Hämäläinen Chapter 13: Family Therapy Robert Taibbi Chapter 14: Group Work Mark Doel Chapter 15: Ecological Theories Aila-Leena Matthies and Kati Närhi Chapter 16: Activism and Advocacy Donna Baines, Emma Tseris and Fran Waugh Chapter 17: Community Social Work Paul Stepney

About the Author :
Neil Thompson, PhD, DLitt, is an independent writer and educator specializing in online learning. His books include the bestselling Anti-Discriminatory Practice, Understanding Social Work: Preparing for Practice, and People Skills (all published by Palgrave). He is a sought-after consultant and conference speaker. His website and blog are at www. neilthompson.info. Paul Stepney, PhD, is Adjunct Professor of Social Work at the University of Tampere, Finland and visiting professor at two other Finnish universities. Prior to this he has taught at four UK universities and worked as a hospital social worker. Paul’s research interests are in critical practice and prevention, and he is co-author of two books on social work.