Essential Theory for Social Work Practice
- Chris Beckett - University of East Anglia, UK
- Nigel Horner - Lincoln University
New chapters bring the book right up to date and include Relationship-based Work, The Importance of Language, Political Perspectives and Environmental Intervention.
Written by two well-established and expert authors, this is the 'must-have' theory text for all social work students.
This book has many strengths and is highly recommended for those interested in social work. Firstly, it is written in a fluent and straightforward manner, making it easy for readers to understand the essential elements of social work and the relationship between theory and practice. Secondly, the authors re-examine the multiple roles of social workers, especially their control agent roles, offering a new perspective on social work’s function in advocacy and empowerment. Instead of solely performing the traditional role of caring, social work is urged to recognise its power and use it
appropriately. The authors also establish theoretical connections among the past, the present and the future, inspiring readers to reflect on the development of social work in a global context. Lastly, the book includes various exercises and practice notes that are helpful for both social work teachers and students. It is an accessible resource for understanding social work and enhancing reflective and critical thinking. The book sheds light on the challenges of professional development faced by social work and reminds us of the importance of locating its identity in modern society amidst rapid changes in a vast policy agenda.
the text book provides good information for our students to integrate theories into practice
Excellent book to help students relate theory to practice - a key aid in social work placements,.
A wide range of theory presented in an attractive and accessible manner that is appropriate for Year One social work students.
A very useful book which gives clear accounts of social work theories and promotes critical thinking.
This is an excellent text which comprehensively covers this subject area.
Easy to read and clearly set out with exercises and practice notes, Covers the topics with enough depth for the groups being taught.
For future editions, could the skills requirements be linked to the PCF or KSS?
This text covers many of the key themes and issues I would like my MA students to get to grips with in their first term, so I will definitely be suggesting relevant chapters to accompany their practice-based learning.
A good overview book of core Social Work theories which students can get to grip with. Nicely presented book.
This book is student friendly, accessible and an easy read. This introduces students to theory which is essential in Social Work Practice. The presentation of the book is very well organised. It concentrates on practice issues and therefore is essential for building the foundations of social work theory for level one BSc or MSc students.
