A Brief Introduction to Social Work Theory, 1st Edition

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.

“"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 ”

'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 '[U]seful 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

DAVID HOWE OBE is Professor of Social Work at the University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK. He was founding editor of the Blackwell Science Journal, Child and Family Social Work (1996-2001) and is author of many books, including: Attachment Theory for Social Work Practice; Attachment Theory, Child Maltreatment and Family Support; Child Abuse and Neglect: Attachment, Development and Intervention; and The Emotionally Intelligent Social Worker.

Learning about social work theory is a bit like hot air ballooning - it's about looking at the world from above and going on a voyage of discovery to find out what guides social work practice. In 25 clearly labelled chapters, this book explains and discusses social work theory in a crisp, clear and accessible way. Whether you're a student, a newly qualified social worker or a 'seasoned' professional you will find plenty in this book to inform, enlighten and refresh you. Written by David Howe, one of the top British writers in social work, his simple, easy-to-read style makes this text ideal for quick reference in lectures, on placement or in practice. A Brief Introduction to Social Work Theory manages to be both compact and comprehensive. You will return to this 'can't live without it' text time and time again.

This concise text, by one of social work's most highly regarded commentators offers the perfect entry point into the complex world of social work theory. Written in a clear conversational style and organized into short, clearly labelled chapters, students and practitioners will find this an invaluable point of refreshment and reference.

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