Social Work
From Theory to Practice

Social Work: From Theory to Practice provides a critical introduction to core and emerging theories of social work.

Louise Harms (Author), Marie Connolly (Author)

9781009095761, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 28 July 2023

256 pages
23 x 15.1 x 1.4 cm, 0.37 kg

Social Work: From Theory to Practice provides a critical introduction to core and emerging theories of social work and teaches students in Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand how to apply these theories in their practice to facilitate change. The fourth edition introduces a cultural lens through which to interrogate theory. A new chapter on Aboriginal perspectives explores a range of theories, from emancipatory frameworks and approaches to deep listening and provides insights for students on how to decolonise their practice and responsibly provide socially just outcomes for communities. New discussions on navigating the service system, feminist and anti-oppressive approaches, sustainability and the impact of COVID-19 on social workers and the communities they serve are included throughout the book. Each chapter includes reflections from social workers and case examples with accompanying questions. New end-of-chapter questions help students engage critically with the content.

1. Social work knowledge, theory and practice
2. Frameworks, models and practice
3. Reimagining social work from an Aboriginal theoretical perspective Shawana Andrews
4. Systems theories: ecological and crisis intervention approaches
5. Onion-peeling theories: psychodynamic and person-centred approaches
6. Faulty-engine theories: behavioural, cognitive behavioural and mindfulness approaches
7. Story-telling theories: strengths-based, narrative and solution-focused approaches
8. Mountain-moving theories: feminist, decolonising and anti-oppressive approaches
9. Reflective practice and theory
Concluding thoughts.

Subject Areas: Social theory [JHBA]