`An excellent book that provides a good deal of valuable material to stimulate debate and to alert readers of the need to engage more critically with the wider world in which social work is located′ - Professor Keith Popple, Professor of Social Work London South Bank University This exciting book draws together the key contemporary theories, theorists and perspectives used in social work and explains how they are applied in practice and critiqued by social workers. It provides: - An outline of the contribution made by a key theorist, theory or perspective to social work - A selective bibliography of each thinker or approach - A glossary defining key traditions, with cross links to key theorists and perspectives - A timeline of key publications - Study questions at the end of each chapter. The book will be valuable for undergraduate, graduate students, post qualifying students and researchers in social work.

"Does social work need another theory book? The answer has to be a resounding 'yes'. This is a broad-based, authoritative and above all, accessible introduction to some key theories in social work. Each chapter follows a logical structure, beginning with the theory explained and moving onto basic assumptions, using theory in practice, strengths and limitations and wider considerations. The book will be useful for social work students and educators alike." Professor Viviene E. Cree, School of Social & Political Science, The University of Edinburgh, UK This practical book provides a basic introduction to the most commonly used theories and methods in social work practice. The book explores the concept of a theory and a method, the difference between the two and the ways in which they are connected. Teater also discusses the social worker-client relationship and offers a handy overview of anti-oppressive practice. Assuming little to no prior knowledge, each chapter explores a single theory or method in depth and uses a variety of interactive tools to encourage you to explore your own thoughts and beliefs. Step-by-step illustrations show how to apply the theory/method to a social work case example and exercises, questions, diagrams, tables and figures all encourage further learning. An Introduction to Applying Social Work Theories and Methods is a practical guide for social work students to use both in the classroom and as a reference guide while on placement. Equally, this book is a useful reference for social work practitioners. Contributor David Kondrat

A student-friendly introduction to social work theories and methods, drawing on current social work research.

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.

By contextualizing current practice and organizational dilemmas, this new edition aims to contribute to both the education and training of social workers as well as to their continuing professional development and create the conditions for critical thinking and critical reflection.

“This book is a reassuring, thorough and essential guide to the world of social work theories and methods…This 4th Edition deserves to find a place on every social work reading list and bookshelf.” Professor Richard Ingram, University of Dundee, Scotland, UK “Based on the belief that all social workers have a responsibility both ethically and professionally to draw upon theories that are grounded in social work values, the fourth edition of this book offers readers the opportunity to consider anew those theories.” Sarah Vicary, Professor of Social Work and Mental Health, School of Health Wellbeing and Social Care, The Open University, UK “An essential read for anyone in the field of social work… This book is a testament to the profound impact that well-grounded theoretical knowledge can have on real-world social work. Highly recommended for its clarity, depth, and relevance.” Paul McCafferty, Senior Lecturer in Social Work, Queen’s University Belfast, NI This text is a comprehensive guide to the most commonly used theories and methods in social work practice. The introductory chapter covers the similarities and differences between a theory and a method, as well as an overview of psychosocial theories and concepts. Each subsequent chapter explores in detail how to implement a specific theory or method, their strengths and limitations, key research, ethical and cultural considerations, and the integration of the theory or method with anti-oppressive practice. Each chapter includes case examples, critical thinking questions, and suggested further resources. Key features of this new edition include: Illustrative case studies Exercises and case examples Critical thinking questions Further readings/resources Revised content, including a chapter on relationship-based social work An Introduction to Applying Social Work Theories and Methods is a practical and essential guide for all social work students, practitioners, and practice educators who are working with students in field placements. Barbra Teater is Professor of Social Work at the College of Staten Island and is Executive Officer of the PhD Program in Social Welfare at The Graduate Center, City University of New York, USA.