Connecting Social Work Theory and Practice
Description
The interplay between Power, Communication and Change is the bedrock of what Social Work is, what it needs to contend with and what it seeks to achieve. This textbook draws on these foundational concepts in order to combine the worlds of theory and practice, aiming to connect the two often disparate sides of Social Work.
Drawing on the key concepts of Power, Communication and Change throughout, the book shows that these essential elements are evident in the explanation and application of all theory and practice perspectives. Divided into three sections, this work delves into each of these underpinning concepts in turn, demonstrating how they permeate all aspects of Social Work. Chapters address dimensions of Power and embedded social structures; the complexities of Communication and approaches to difficult conversions; and how assessment skills along with a range of practice models can help to challenge injustices and facilitate Change. In doing so, these chapters get to the heart of Social Work, by iterating the foundational goals of dispersing Power, fostering effective Communication and supporting Change.
Written in an accessible style that is both clear and engaging, this book will be of interest to all students of Social Work and Social Work professionals.
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Stephen J. Mordue is a Senior Lecturer in Social Work at the University of Sunderland, UK. Previously, he worked in practice with older people and was a social work manager. He now lecturers predominantly in social work theory and practice and works freelance delivering training and workshops to ASYE's and other practitioners where his particular area of interest is the wellbeing of practitioners.
Content
Introduction Part 1: Power 1.Fostering power from within not having power over 2.We are embedded in structures 3.Are We Just Part of the Machine? 4.What we learn is what we do Part 2: Communication 5.The Power of Language 6.The Complexities of Communication 7.Working within difficult conversations Part 3: Change 8.Assessment - the starting point 9.It Takes Practice 10.Mindset shift 11.Time to Challenge?